NF Coeur d'Alene Conditions

Start your snowdance

I took a drive up the NF Coeur d'Alene River yesterday to check on river and ice conditions on my way to get a few laps in over at Lookout Pass. Not to my surprise the snow conditions were very minimal along the river and in the hills. The lack of snowstorms we have had is not painting a very bright future for July and August fishing this year, we do have some time for that to change though and hopefully with a little luck mother nature will give us some more snowpack in the mountains.

The NF CDA itself was in good shape for winter fishing. Minimal shelf ice and access to the roadside turnouts will make for easier access the water. I drove up about 14 miles and there wasn't really any spots that weren't accessible. That combined with good flows will make for decent winter potential.

Water temps are still cold though so plan on usual winter fishing tactics; deep nymphing and streamer fishing. Get your bugs down and keep them down. Find slower / deeper pools, troughs, and slots where fish won't have to expend much energy.

Get out and enjoy some fresh air!