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Rio Craft Teton 13' 6" Deluxe Raft Package

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 18:00:05 +0000

Streamlined, lightweight, and highly fun!

Spring is raft season and at the Silver Bow we LOVE rafts! Fishing rafts like the 13'6" Rio Craft Teton open up numerous fishing opportunities. High water, low water, bad boat launches, no boat launches, and river portages... fishing from a raft allows you to access water drift boats cannot, is safer, and is often more affordable than hard boats.

We have been selling and fishing with Rio Craft Rafts for about three years now and are very impressed with the design and features. We are now stocking the Teton Deluxe Fishing Package, a pretty sweet boat package for various reasons.

Regarding the Teton Raft boat's design, we really like its length and width. The 13'6" Teton Raft is 5'8" wide, making it 4 inches narrower on the exterior than the same-length Rio Craft Madison. The interior is 3 inches narrower than the Madison due to a slightly smaller tube diameter. Combining the narrow design with a bit more rocker on the front and rear makes for an exceptionally maneuverable raft.

The Deluxe Package frame from Rio Craft is handcrafted in Montana with 1.25”diameter aluminum and finished with a hammered silver powder coating for maximum durability.

Package Includes:

- Raft 13' 6" w/ Dropstitch Floor (Dropstitch floors are incredible for standing on and make for a more agile boat)s
- Low Back Rowing Seat Mounted on Cross Bar
- Foot Bar and Straight Bar (Cooler Bay)
- Elevated Front Seat Bar
- 8" Better Mounts Oar Towers w/ Sawyer Cobra Oarlocks
- Anchor System w/ Anchor Rope
- Deluxe Swivel Seats w/ Mounts (2)
- Cam Straps (5)

Price: $5999 (raft and frame as listed above) in-stock.

Not Included: oars, anchor, and pump. We stock Sawyer Square Tops, Sawyer Pole Cats, and Sawyer Bandits. We stock K-Pumps, Green Anchors and Tornado Anchors.

This highly versatile raft, with its narrow design, can handle smaller, technical water as well as large rivers and whitewater thanks to the 13'6" length and rocker design. By omitting the dry box you achieve two things: 1) Reduced weight, which makes for a more agile boat that is easier to portage or load. 2) Reduces costs. A dry bag can easily hold items you don't want to get wet for less money than a dry box costs. If you want an excellent all-around raft the Rio Craft Teton can go anywhere, anytime.

Note: Wear patches are Slate Gray (dark gray) not Olive as shown in photos.

Fishing Raft For Sale: Outcast PAC 1300

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:37:56 +0000

In-stock. A boat that withstands time and abuse!

A longtime favorite fishing raft of the Silver Bow Fly Shop, the Outcast PAC 1300 is one of the finest, longest lasting rafts ever made. Made in the USA the PAC 1300 13'1" fishing raft is a go-anywhere style boat that takes abuse and keeps on rowing.

Myself (Sean) and Kenyon have both put countless hours on Outcast PAC series fishing rafts. I've personally owned two of them and they are almost indestructible. These boats are more durable because they are made of two layers, an outer PVC "shell" and an inner urethane bladder. This two layer design holds up to years of abuse, I've literally been out with a guide buddy as he dropped his Outcast (AIRE) raft into the Teton River canyon... off a cliffs and boulders for a couple hundred feet, it was insane. No issues.

Outcast (AIRE) fishing rafts are made in Idaho, and the fishing frame is also made in the USA by NRS in Moscow, ID. As most know, the NRS fishing frames are modular and customizable, allowing you to add a dry box or move your seat bar, foot bar, etc., later on. Plus the Outcast PAC 1300 comes with casting braces and platforms for the ultimate in versatilty depending on how you like to fish, standing up or sitting down.

Package Includes:

- Compact 13'1" length designed for big water and tight lines
- Room for a rower, two anglers, and essential gear
- Whitewater-inspired design based on AIRE’s Puma Series
- Durable PVC shell and urethane AIREcells for long-term reliability
- Self-bailing floor and high rocker angles for responsive handling

Price: $7995 (raft and frame as listed above) NOTE we have the Gray color in-stock.

Not Included: Oars, anchor, and pump. We stock Sawyer Square Tops, Sawyer Pole Cats, and Sawyer Bandits. We stock K-Pumps, Green Anchors and Tornado Anchors.

Benefits to the Outcat PAC 1300 Fishing Raft Package: If you are an angler looking for durability and longevity who appreciates supporting American manufacturing this is the raft. The two-layer design is extremely hard to puncture and the raft's size allows it to handle both calm and rough waters, including whitewater.

Specs:

- Length: 13'1.5"
- Width: 5'8"
- Weight: 223 lbs
- Tube Diameter: 18.5"
- Bow Rise: 14"
- Stern Rise: 14"
- 2" Waterline: 91"
- Interior Width (center): 31"
- Interior Depth (center): 11"
- Valve Type: Leafield C7
- Base Fabric Denier: 1670 PVC
- Material Weight: 37 oz/sq yd
- AIREcell Material: Urethane
- Number of Chambers: 4
- Number of Handles: 4
- Number of D-Rings: 10
- Load Capacity: 1050 lbs
- Self-Bailing: Yes
- Color: Gray
- Warranty: OSG 10-Year No-Fault Warranty

Note: We are stocking the New 2026 Gray Color as shown in the top photo. Oars not included.

Tickets Available For IF4 2026

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 19:26:14 +0000

Films, fun, and fundraising

The International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4) returns to Spokane with a curated collection of world‑class films spanning conservation, family, adventure, and culture—including a standout short featuring chef and cultural storyteller David Chang chasing permit in Mexico.

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM (Doors open at 5:00 PM)
Location: Garland Theater, 924 W Garland Ave, Spokane, WA
Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door

This event is proudly sponsored by Silver Bow Fly Shop. The event proceeds will benefit Spokane Riverkeeper.

What to Expect

- A lineup of stunning films including Against the Current, Generations, Let’s Make a Fishing Movie, and Two Roads on the River.
- Raffle prizes from Silver Bow Fly Shop that might just make you the envy of your fishing buddies (yes, including a guided Spokane River trip).
- Time to swap stories, meet fellow river lovers, and support Spokane Riverkeeper’s mission to protect the waters we all depend on.

Whether you can cast a perfect loop or simply enjoy gorgeous cinematography from the comfort of a theater seat, this event has you covered.

Check out the full lineup and trailers at: flyfilmfest.com

Come for the films, stay for the community, and help support Spokane Riverkeeper’s work to protect the river we all love. See you at the Garland Theater!

Buy Tickets Here

Trip Report: Cinco Rios Coyhaique Chile

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 22:22:44 +0000

Summertime trout south of the equator

Another fantastic trip to the Coyhaique, Chile region is in the books! My wife Jen, a great group of friends, and I recently returned from our third visit to Cinco Rios Lodge in the heart of Patagonia.

If you aren't familiar with Cinco Rios, they operate two lodges from November to April, offering world-class trout fishing opportunities on freestones, spring creeks, and stillwaters around the Coyhaique area. The "main" lodge, Cinco Rios, is on the outskirts of Coyhaique overlooking the Simpson River valley. With access to numerous stretches of the Simpson, Maniguales, and Paloma Rivers, as well as numerous lakes with incredible trout. Estancia del Zorro is their other lodge, situated in the Coyhaique Alto zone the holds countless spring creeks and the Nireguao River. If you want a variety of trout fishing opportunities, this is the place. During the fall they have a third operation for giant lake-run brown trout, which we have done on the prior two trips as well.

If you have only a week to explore this region the ideal package is the "Best of Patagonia," which includes three days at Cinco Rios, followed by a transfer to Estancia del Zorro about an hour away. You then get to see the incredible variety of fisheries around the area... and you definitely won't fish the same spot more than once!

Everyone in our group visited this lodge before which indicates how great this operation is, as some friends have returned to Cinco Rios six times! With each visit to the Patagonia region I expect mixed weather, and overall this week was no exception, though overall I felt it was generally on the pleasant side. The second day of the trip had variable weather with squalls moving in-and-out all day. Because the region has such varied weather makes packing a little tricky, some days we were bundled up, some days it was sun hoodies and wet wading. You just never know in Patagonia.

This week included a few more days of stillwater fishing compared to past trips. Normally I'm pretty much a river angler, however, the lake fishing in this part of the world is pretty dang fun. Lake fly fishing around Coyhaique often offers visual opportunities using dry flies or dry-droppers. Even fishing with sink-tips and leeches can be visual because the lakes are so clear. Some in the group floated the Paloma, Simpson, and Maniguales Rivers during our first three days at Cinco Rios. These rivers not only offer great trout fishing, but incredible views.

Fishing is fishing though, it is not catching. Not every day is a banner, big-fish, big-numbers kinda day. Some days are spent hunting for just a few nice fish or eats. Then there are days the stars align and you get the big fish, and the big numbers. We had a little of everything. Either way, it's hard to have a bad day in Chile when you have great views, miles of water to fish, excellent meals, and the excellent service of the Cinco Rios crew.

A big THANK YOU to my friends who joined Jen and I again on this adventure to South America, and another big thank you to the Cinco Rios crew for taking good care of all of us.

If you are interested in angling adventure travel with the Silve Bow Fly Shop please reach out, we always have something in the works for future trips!

Kenyon Trip Report: OP Steelhead

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 19:03:48 +0000

Back on the OP

I’ve been fortunate to spend quite a few weeks on the Olympic Peninsula over the last several years. I made my first trip over here with past shop employee and good friend Kelby Braun back in 2020, and have pretty much been obsessed with the unique rainforest vibe ever since. We ended up with four of us on this year’s trip, with Jesse and I dragging over a raft, along with Chris and Bjorn bringing their boat as well.

We opted for the Sol Duc on our first day, given the likelihood of dropping and clearing conditions over the week ahead. Generally, this river fishes better when flows on others river are high/off-color, and even though we didn’t have any encounters on this day, we fished hard and felt good about the game plan. We did see a couple of fish sliding up through tailouts on this float so there were definitely a few around, but as steelheading goes none of those wanted to play.

Our next day was spent on the lower Hoh River, which ended up being our best day for fishing and weather. Everyone managed to tangle with a steelhead, including Jesse landing his first ever Winter Steelhead. I don’t care where you’re at or what you’re fishing for, when everyone in the crew gets it done on the same day, everything after is just a bonus. We were all even more appreciative of this after the grind of conditions to follow in the coming days.

The next few days greeted us with rain, snow, sleet, really anything and everything that can fall from the sky. Every morning was either snow covered or frozen solid, so our early start motivations were pretty slim. These were true Winter Steelhead conditions. Water temps plummeted daily, rivers got low and clear and we had to grind out every opportunity with long days on the water. Fortunately, a couple of these days warmed up to semi-tolerable temps in the afternoons (at least when I was dressed in every layer I brought with me) and a couple of fish were hooked and landed.

- Kenyon

Photo Credit: Jesse Retan, Chris Matzel, Kenyon Pitts

Spokane River Benefit / IF4 Films 2026

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 18:20:51 +0000

A fun night of fly fishing films and fundraising.

Next month our friends at the Spokane Riverkeeper will host the annual International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4).

This yearly event includes a raffle that raises funds for the Riverkeeper's team to continue their great work protecting, monitoring, and cleaning the Spokane River.

We have some killer prizes lined up from top manufacturers, you won't want to miss out!

The IF4 is sponsored by the Silver Bow Fly Shop.

Mark your calendars for March 31st at the Garland Theater!

More details will be announced in early March.

Late Winter Spokane Guided Trips

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 02:44:57 +0000

A couple more weeks of opportunity remain

The Spokane River is one of the best winter fisheries in our general region. Thanks to aquifer keeping the water temperatures stable, the Spokane stays relatively warm, and ice-free during the coldest months of the season.

For the past few weeks, the shop crew hasn't missed a beat and has found time to hit the Spokane River. Catch rates and size have been good too. As winter progresses, the guys have found some really nice fish using indicator and streamer rigs. Now we are even seeing a few fish rising for blue-winged olives on warmer days... and catching some! They are tricky though.

If you want to help cure your winter blues we have a small window to hit the Spokane River before it closes for spawning season on March 15th. Given the weather and lack of snow, it's a good opportunity to fish this fantastic river.

Our float trips include all equipment, flies, leader / tippet, snacks / drinks and are approximately 6hrs long.

Trip Rate: $550.00
Does not include: tax, guide gratuity

Give our esteemed Guide Manager, Bo Brand, a call 509-924-9998 and he can get you on a float while we have the opportunity.

Steelhead Trip Report: Olympic Peninsula

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 23:37:44 +0000

Sunny and chrome

When a window of opportunity presents itself I'm usually not one to pass it up. It's been decades since I've personally fished the Olympic Peninsula, and this was a first for my brother Mike. So, when Bo made plans with a mutual friend of ours to meet on the OP I reinstated the offer to join them on a last minute trip.

I've fished the north coast of Oregon a couple of times, and when I was a teenager, I had the opportunity to fish rivers like the Queets, Humptulips, and Wynoochee. The iconic Hoh, Bogichiel, and Sol Duc Rivers, however, have not been checked off our bucket list.

We arrived in Forks, WA last Wednesday and after a bit of rain the sun was going to shine for the first two days of our three days of fishing. Rain leading up to the trip also had spiked the rivers so clear skies were needed to drop the levels back to a fishable state. We ended up opting for the Hoh River the first day and with Bo's wisdom and experience from previous trips to the region the choice paid off. Bo connected with an incredible wild buck steelhead about halfway through the float. The fish had been resting in a bucket behind structure along the bank and as we drifted past Bo hooked up with a well placed cast and drift. Wild OP winter run steelhead have a bit more fight in them since they don't have to swim past numerous dams and hundreds of miles like our A-run summer steelhead we see on the Grande Ronde and Snake Rivers. It was Bo's largest steelhead to date landed.

The second day was shaping up to be another rare blue bird day on the coast. After the success of the first Hoh River float we opted for the next float downstream from where we took out the day before. Boat traffic was heavier which made jockeying for a run trickier though we still found plenty of spots to hit from the Rio Craft raft and some great swing water when we stopped. Before the afternoon clouds rolled in I had a semi-brief encounter with a smaller chrome bright hen steelhead. As we drifted along the bank the indicator went down in a likely holding water with good structure. Without an ideal location to land the feisty steelhead, we towed her across to a gravel bar where she decided she had enough of my shenanigans, gave me one last good run, a double barrel roll and shook the hook. Such is steelheading.

Saturday brought the classic rain of the Olympic Pensiula and Hoh rain forest. About 1.5 inches fell that day. We had the motivation of a gnat but eventually we all mustered the energy to hit a few runs on foot. Mike and I opted for the upper Hoh River which was still hanging in clarity wise. Bo and friends headed to the Bogachiel and Sol Duc. The Bogi was a short lived option and blew out as Bo fished it. They found some water to fish on the Sol Duc which remains clear under most circumstances.

Mike and I explored a bit during the drive over and back, and we also found time to hike around Olympic National Park on the rainy Saturday. While the trip ended on a soggy note we all had a great time and enjoyed fishing new water with the bonus of a couple of steelhead connections.

Kenyon is OP bound soon so we will have another trip report from him as well!

Trip Report: Pyramid Lake

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 13:56:43 +0000

Land of the Giants

Every year, I take a trip over to the great salty pond, AKA Pyramid Lake, NV, to chase the world's largest cutthroat trout; where they measure fish by weight, not inches. This trip always seems to fit in this time of year as I taper off fishing our local steelhead rivers and look towards other angling opportunities. This year, we faced relatively tough weather conditions for fishing Pyramid (mostly sunny, warmer, and calm days), so we focused on capitalizing on the early morning and late evening bite for the majority of fish we encountered. Despite the tougher conditions, we were still able to find a handful of fish that surpassed the 10lb mark and plenty of fish in the 5-10lb range. Regardless of the fishing, this trip is always a great excuse to get outside and drink a couple beers with close friends in what most people view as the off-season.

Outside of the giant fish, Pyramid lake is known for the unique style of fishing with two-handed switch rods and ladders. Our approach was relatively simple: start the morning exactly 1 hour before sunrise by stripping floating beetles and "boobie" flies on either a full sink or heavy/long sink tip line with a 9ft 8 weight. As soon as there was enough light to see a bobber, I traded in the stripping rod for my Echo SR 11ft 7 weight with an integrated skagit-style line (I prefer Rio's Switch Chucker with a 10ft floating VersiLeader) made for lobbing heavy/long bobber rigs. We found most of our luck under a bobber on chironomid patterns with a few fish taking a balanced leech or baitfish when we were lucky enough to have some chop on the water.

Our fishing spot for each day was very dependent on the weather forecast. If we were lucky enough to have some cloud cover mixed with some wind, we looked for relatively shallow and gradual drop-offs where fish would be found cruising. In these spots, we used the famous ladder technique, walking our ladders out as far as we could before the waves crashed over our waders to get our flies closer to the drop-off. Any time we could identify a mudline (sudden color change from current pushing mud/debris off the shoreline) or foam-line forming (appears as a long narrow lane of bubbles), we were sure to get our bobbers in the feeding lane. On the more sunny and calm days, we sought after much deeper water with more sudden drop-offs to pick off fish pressed to the bottom with the sun glaring down on them. During periods with little to no wind (no chop on the water to animate your flies), we found luck both twitching the bobber every few seconds as well as using a slow hand-twist retrieve in 10 second intervals.

Come stop by the shop to talk switch rods, lines, leader setups, or fly selection with me, we've got it all.

Sean Wonders

F3T Fly Fishing Film Tour Friday Jan 30

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:19:58 +0000

Celebrating 20 years of F3T!

The Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) is coming to Spokane this Friday January 30th! Join us at the Bing Crosby Theater to celebrate 20 years of fishing films and fun.

We have a discount QR code at the shop for 20% off tickets, swing by to purchase a few bugs / supplies and grab the code. Hope to see you there!

Intro Fly Tying Dates 2025/2026

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 21:47:00 +0000

Includes materials to keep!

Fly tying season is kicking off with our popular Intro Fly Tying Classes with Kenyon Pitts. This class is geared towards beginner tiers, however, there will be plenty of tips and tricks that even a seasoned fly tyer could learn a lot from. The focus will be on trout patterns for the Spokane region, but these techniques can be applied to all styles of fly tying down the road.

We will have material kits assembled to tie four different patterns. All materials will be included and are yours to keep. These are full material packages good for tying tons of flies!

A premium tying vise and all tools will be available for use. Vise/tools will be available for purchase after the class with a limited time coupon.

This will be an excellent opportunity to learn from Kenyon about some of his favorite fly patterns and how to tie them.

Give the shop a call 509-924-9998 or stop in to get on the calendar, as these dates will go quickly! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Dates Available:

Day Date Time

Wednesday December 3, 2025 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - Sold Out

Wednesday January 7, 2026 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - Sold Out

Wednesday January 28, 2026 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - Sold Out

Wednesday February 11, 2026 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - Sold Out

Wednesday February 25, 2026 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - Sold Out

Cost - $60.00
Where - Silver Bow Fly Shop - 13210 E Indiana Ste 100
Includes - Take home a material kit to tie all four patterns, instructional book. We provide use of a vise / tools and 2 hours of instruction
Availability - Space is limited to 4 students

Instructor

Kenyon Pitts

Steelhead Fly Tying Class

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 21:24:00 +0000

SOLD OUT

Steelhead flies are some of my favorite patterns to tie. The endless color combinations, large proportions and blank canvas for creativity are just a few of the reasons I find myself spinning these up all the time.

I will be offering a course on how to tie a few of these patterns on January 21 st , 2026. This is not an introduction level class. You should have a good understanding of fly tying fundamentals prior to enrolling.

The class will be 2 hours and we will be tying 3 different patterns. All materials are included for use during the class. Vise and tools are available for use, but please bring your own if you have them.

Patterns Covered: Hoh Bo Variant, Steelhead Muddler, Loop Leech

Dates Available:

Day Date Time

Wednesday January 21, 2026 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - SOLD OUT

Wednesday January 22, 2026 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - SOLD OUT

Cost - $60.00
Where - Silver Bow Fly Shop - 13210 E Indiana Ste 100
Availability - Space is limited to 4 students - SOLD OUT

Instructor

Kenyon Pitts

Dry Fly Tying Class

Sun, 28 Dec 2025 21:05:00 +0000

Beyond the basics

1 SPOT LEFT

Everyone’s favorite: catching trout on a dry fly. We’re fortunate to have a few exceptional dry fly fisheries around Spokane. While these flies are local favorites for rivers like the St Joe and North Fork CDA, they will play on a variety of fisheries around the region.

I will be offering a course on how to tie these patterns on February 4th, 2026. This is not an introduction level class. You should have a good understanding of fly tying fundamentals prior to enrolling.

The class will be 2 hours and we will be tying 3 different patterns. All materials are included for use during the class. Vise and tools are available for use, but please bring your own if you have them.

Patterns Covered: Purple Haze, Chubby Chernobyl, Stimulator

Dates Available:

Day Date Time

Wednesday February 4, 2026 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - SOLD OUT

Wednesday February 5, 2026 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - 1 SPOT LEFT

Cost - $60.00
Where - Silver Bow Fly Shop - 13210 E Indiana Ste 100
Availability - Space is limited to 4 students

Instructor

Kenyon Pitts

20 Year Anniversary

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 00:43:18 +0000

August 31st, 2005. Celebrating 20 years of Silver Bow community

This Labor Day Weekend marks my 20th anniversary of owning the Silver Bow Fly Shop. Crazy to believe it was that long ago. At the same time, it feels like yesterday and yet a distant memory.

Long before I started working at the Silver Bow, I was a customer. Spending my allowance and birthday money when I was kid on tying materials, leader / tippet, flies, rods, etc. It was the one shop that was always willing to help and answer questions. Fast forward a number of years... after an unfortunate boating accident in 2001 that claimed the life of a close friend and three of his family members, it was through a connection with his family that I developed a friendship with who was soon to be the new owner of the Silver Bow Fly Shop at the time.

When Wayne Williams purchased the shop in 2002 he was looking to hire more help in the store. Wayne knew of my fly fishing obsession through the connection we had made after the loss of my friend and his family. He offered me a chance to pursue my fly fishing passion and help him with the Silver Bow. Over the course of three years my role developed and in early 2005, at a dinner meeting, he proposed to sell the Silver Bow to me and a good friend who helped at the store at the time. My friend declined the offer as he was already in another career and let me pursue this new endeavor on my own.

Through Wayne's guidance and generosity we set up the transfer for August 31st, 2005. A date that forever changed my life and numerous others that have come along for the ride.

Over these past twenty years I have seen many changes, both good and bad, in the world of fly fishing. Our shop and team has weathered the ups-and-downs of the economy, a changing retail environment, competition both locally as well as online, the pandemic, direct to consumer sales, you name it. We are still here, still kicking, and still trying to offer quality service, knowledge, and tackle for all fly anglers.

For those that have been hanging with us the past two decades (or longer!), thank you. For those that have more recently started to support the Silver Bow, thank you. To my family, friends, and wife Jen (whom if it wasn't for the Silver Bow I would have never met), thank you for your support! To the past shop team members and the current team who are the reason the Silver Bow still exists and operates like it does, THANK YOU. The Silver Bow team has always been incredible at helping anglers with their needs and keep the machine running.

The Silver Bow is more than just me, it is everyone that has helped support it in one way or the other over the years that make it what it is today. As the saying goes... it takes a village.

I am humbled by the opportunity that I was given by Wayne and his family, thank you everyone for coming along on the ride.

Explore WA Podcast With Sean Visintainer

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 21:10:15 +0000

20+ years of fly shop business

I was recently invited to sit down with Scott Cowan of the Explore Washington State Podcast and share some pieces about my journey with the Silver Bow Fly Shop. I had a great time talking about various subjects related to my time with the business. Give it a listen if you are interested in hearing more about our humble little fly shop.
Listen to Podcast

Rio Craft Madison Raft for Sale

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 20:04:14 +0000

Fish more areas in comfort

For the past season our crew has been enjoying this new-ish brand of rafts for our personal and guiding. Rio Craft has designed a sweet fly fishing specific package that is clean, comfortable, and well thought out. The floors are drop-stitched which make standing up a breeze with more stability. Handles and D-rings in the right places, plenty of additional material in high-wear areas and diminishing tubes help navigate in the wind. Another additional design feature we like is the boat has a bit more volume in the tubes (especially the rear) so the rafts can handle heavier loads and still skate over the shallow riffles with ease. Come by the shop and check it out if you are in the market for a new raft!

Price: $6599

Rio Craft Pro Package includes:

- 13' 6" Madison Raft - grey accents
- Front & rear deluxe padded angling seats
- Foot bar
- 10" oar towers
- Sawyer Cobra oar locks
- Cooler Bay
- Powder coated dual-lid dry box
- Anchor system
- Rear seat riser
- 50' Anchor rope

Not included (sold seperately):

- Oars
- Anchor
- Pump
- 2:1 Anchor Pulley Assist
- Cooler
- Powercoated cup holders

Spokane River Opener 2025

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 00:23:02 +0000

Spokane

The Spokane River is back in action! Our local haunt reopened Memorial Day weekend, and everyone from the shop has been out getting after it any chance we get. This time of year is hard to beat. Evenings are long, temperatures are perfect and the trout are happy. Whether its short sessions after work or day floats, getting some fishing time in becomes a lot easier when its 10 minutes away.

Flows are sitting nicely for early season fishing. A bit higher than opening weekend last year, but still a very fishy level for wading and floating. We’ll see the river start to slowly drop over the next few weeks, which will improve access, especially for wade anglers. With cooler temps this spring and decent snowpack, there should be a healthy amount of water in the river as we get later into the summer season.

I’ve been out for a few floats already and have done some wade fishing as well. Wade fishing is great for the quick sessions, but it sure is nice being able to cover more water from the boat. Especially with the current flows, the raft allows you to fish towards the bank and not worry about obstacles in your back cast. There’s also no poison ivy in the raft, which I’m currently suffering through after taking a couple errant steps right through some of that nasty stuff.

There are some great caddis hatches in the evenings all over the river. In true Spokane River fashion, fish are waiting until the last half hour of daylight to grab them off the surface. Caddis-style nymphs and soft hackles have been reliable all day though, whether you’re swinging them or hanging one underneath a big dry fly. Stonefly nymphs and sculpin imitations are also good sub-surface options. Euro and bobber setups are great for the turbulent and deeper sections of river, don’t shy away from heavy rigs this time of year to cut through the surface currents.

I’ll be out here regularly all summer long. Our guided trips are filling up and I’m looking forward to seeing friends new and old. Give us a call at the shop if you want a front seat ride down our hometown river! It’s one of my favorite ways to spend the morning on a warm Summer day.

Memorial Day Weekend River Forecast

Tue, 20 May 2025 23:42:38 +0000

It's time

Oh man what a great few days it's shaping up to be this Memorial Day Weekend! The weather and water is lining up to be perfect for late May angling in the Inland Northwest.

First up, the Spokane River. Yes, while considered on the high side, adventurous anglers are going to be able to find spots to fish and probably some fish! At current levels all you need to do is focus your efforts on the banks. No need to get in the water because the fish will be in the narrow margins or windows along the shore. We have friends that have seen salmonflies near the river this week and they should continue into the first week of the opener. A large salmonfly or chubby in a salmonfly variety SHOULD get some sniffs from the trout. Without a doubt nymphing and streamer fishing will get it done. This time of the year, especially as temps heat up the caddis activity will increase. A stonefly type of nymph and caddis pupa combo will be a go-to for many weeks on the Spokane. Do use caution when venturing to the river at current flows, a little common sense goes a long ways. Floating at this level is the preference to have access to more water, but there are plenty of spots to hit on foot too.

The North Idaho favorites will be prime for the weekend. In particular the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River is in excellent shape and NOBODY can tell me otherwise ha! It is NOT too high, it's perfect and in fact it's a bit low for this time of the year. It has been fishing well with a variety of insect hatches as always right about now... salmonflies, drakes, pmd's, golden stones, and yellow sallies all making appearances depending on the weather. It is dry fly time right now so whether it's a single dry or a dry / dropper combo it's time to make sure your fly floatant is reloaded in your pack. The St. Joe is also on the radar to be fishing well for Memorial Day Weekend. Look for the similar hatches to the NF CDA but you could even throw in maybe a skwala or March brown since the temps have stayed cool, I don't think the cutthroat will mind one bit. The Joe will have few "good" spots to fish, though there are plenty for anglers looking to do some bank scrambling. The water temps are cold so these rivers may have a slow start in the morning and probably a good idea to throw some nymphs like small rubber leg stones with a Spanish bullet or perdigon type below that. The Spanish bullets or perdigons make perfect droppers if you are throwing stonefly dries or chubbies as the day progresses.

Across the Idaho Panhandle in Montana the general stream opener was last Saturday for any of the rivers not yet open. It is your better shot at finding clear water in Big Sky country. The Clark Fork River near St. Regis will be on the higher side as this one gets a lot of water from the tributaries and is last to come into shape. It isn't too high though, we have fished it at these levels and much higher, it just isn't on the top of the list currently.

We don't get many reports on the Yakima since most folks head east from our area, but it looks and sounds like the central Washington favorite has been fishing well and should continue.

We hope you have a fantastic and fish-filled Memorial Day Weekend! Swing on in and see the crew before you head out for the latest info and bugs.

Patagonia Swiftcurrent Traverse Zipper Wader Review

Thu, 15 May 2025 18:27:33 +0000

Feature rich and durable zip front waders

I’ve been a huge fan of Patagonia’s Swiftcurrent wader lineup for quite a few years now. I’ve used and abused them all around the Northwest, from coastal steelhead rivers to the backcountry of Northern Idaho and Montana. The durability of Patagonia’s waders has always impressed me, especially since I tend to neglect taking care of them and have earned a reputation for destroying gear.

When I saw Patagonia launching the Swiftcurrent Traverse model, a zip-front wader for $549, I had to pick up a pair and try them out. Getting into a pair of zippered waders has always been viewed as a premium purchase, so having a “mid-price” option really jumped out at me. The ease-of-use zippered waders offer is a major benefit, especially for layering and when nature calls. I feel this will put Patagonia as a front-runner in the wader market, giving anglers a great option for a reasonable price point.

There are a few noteworthy features and upgrades that I’ve been very happy with. The gusseted crotch along with an articulated seat and legs really improved the fit and mobility, reducing pinch points and common wear areas. The elastic suspender straps allow for more ease of movement, especially when crouching down or climbing up and over things. They also tweaked the interior fit of the ankle and bootie area, which makes getting in and out of these much easier. With all of that considered, the Traverse wader is one of the most comfortable I’ve worn.

The pocket layout is simple but functional. Two zippered front pockets with plenty of room for the daily essentials, one zippered interior pocket for secure storage and one large interior dump pocket. I will say it took me a few days to get used to the absence of outside entry hand warmer pockets on the front of the wader. If you’re wearing a wading jacket, this is a non-issue, but it is a bit different since most waders offer this pocket option. This is the only “gripe” I can give about these waders. Everything else is dialed, and it really doesn’t harm the overall functionality.

Overall, I’ve been thrilled with these waders. I can’t quite speak of the long-term durability aspect so far, going to need some more days of running them through the paces. But based on my experience with previous pairs of Swiftcurrents, I’m confident these will be in my lineup for years to come. Patagonia really nailed it here, and I hope anyone interested can use this feedback to put themselves into a quality piece of equipment.

Swing by the shop and Bo or I can get you fitted on the water!

- Kenyon Pitts

Shop Fish Day Wrap-Up

Fri, 09 May 2025 22:33:12 +0000

No fish, no fun

It had been a year since we had the chance to hit the water together, so we shut down the shop for a day this week and got out for an R&R session on the North Fork Coeur d'Alene river. The shop life can get a little hectic this time of year, so I think we all appreciated a day where going fishing was the only priority. We did this around the same time last year and plan on making it a regular outing every Spring.

After the mandatory gas station pit stop for fuel and caffeine, we made it up to the river and got the boats in the water around 10:30. While Bo and Sean ran the shuttle, Mike and I plucked some fish on nymph rigs right at the boat launch. Once we pushed off, we ran dry-dropper rigs and were into fish right out of the gate. After enough action on the dry, (and untangling enough fish from the dropper rig,) we pretty much rocked a single salmonfly dry the rest of the day. It’s always nice when the cutties are behaving and want to eat a big foam bug.

We found fish in just about every water type, from shallow riffles to the deep green pools. We did notice that the fish seemed to prefer the sunny side of the river, most of the shady banks weren’t kicking out fish nearly as consistently. Based off the cold water temps, it made sense that fish were seeking out that extra couple degrees of warmer water. Anywhere you could find overhanging willows or downed trees seemed to be hot spots, since this is where the big stoneflies tend to hatch and helplessly end up in the water.

We saw the full spectrum of Spring hatches throughout the day. Plenty of Salmonflies fluttering around, March Browns, Grey Drakes, Yellow Sallies, Golden Stones and a handful of caddis as it warmed up. Even though we don’t get the mega Salmonfly hatches other rivers get around the West, there’s plenty of them to get the cutties looking for a big meal on the surface. There was a noticeable lack of fish actively rising, which could have partly been due to the stretch of river we were on. Whenever we saw a random rise, plopping the big dry on their head did the job often enough.

Flows were a little swift for prime wade fishing, especially if you were heading further upriver above Prichard. This will only improve over the coming weeks. We are basically on the back side of the Spring runoff. There might be a slight bump here and there on the super warm days, but I wouldn’t be worried about the rivers blowing out going forward. Get out there while it’s good! We certainly will be.

- Kenyon Pitts

Staff Fishing Day Closed 5/7

Tue, 06 May 2025 18:26:46 +0000

Team fishing day

We are going fishing! It’s been one year since we have all got a chance to fish together so we are closing the shop down for the day and heading out to enjoy some river-time together. Shop closed all day Wednesday May 7.

See you back in the store Thursday May 8th!

Pre-Runoff Cutty Update

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 19:47:46 +0000

Pre-Runoff Cutty Update

One of the most common questions we get in the shop this time of year: “When does spring runoff start and when will it be done?”

Around the Spokane region, we’ve gotten used to exceptionally warm spring temperatures and early runoff the last few years. Fortunately, we’ve had a more “normal” spring this season. Cool overnight temps mixed with mild daytime highs has kept high-elevation snowpack intact and should set us up for a nice Summer season of cold water flowing through the streams in our area. With longer, warmer days coming up, we will likely see the high-elevation snow start melting over the next couple weeks.

We've had a great Spring for fishing so far with mild flows and thick bug hatches. Everyone here at the shop has been able to get out and take advantage of these conditions over the last few weeks. The St. Joe and NF CDA have been the local favorites, but other rivers like the Clark Fork and Yakima have also been fishing very well for anglers looking to venture out further.

Shop friend Aaron and I (Kenyon) were able to sneak away on Friday for a float on the St Joe. Even though there was a flow bump in the forecast, we made the trip anyways and were not disappointed. (Note: Don’t solely rely on forecasts for your fishing days… They’re often wrong, just like the weather.) Flows were in great shape and clarity was ideal. Water temps around 10 AM were 46° and warmed to 50° by late afternoon.

We started the day by throwing a dry-dropper combo and immediately found fish on both. A water walker or gypsy king seemed to get the most attention on the surface. Droppers really didn’t seem to matter much, but we had fish take March Brown frenchies, stonefly nymphs, and worm patterns. From noon to about 2:30 we had a great window of March Browns and Drakes hatching, which let us headhunt for risers until the hatch tapered off. There were a few random risers throughout the rest of the day, but consistency noticeably dropped off when the bugs were done.

We saw just about every bug you would expect for this time of year. Skwalas, Nemouras, March Browns, Gray Drakes, and a couple Salmonflies at the end of the day. The cutties were in their true form and wanted to look up for a dry all day long.

I don’t know what else to say, other than GO FISHING! We’ll see you out there!

New Guide Team Member Sean Wonders

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 21:15:56 +0000

Sean Wonders

We are excited to announce our newest member to the Silver Bow Guide Team, Sean Wonders. Sean will be guiding on our home water the Spokane River with Silver Bow veterans Kenyon, Jesse, and Bjorn. Sean has spent a tremendous amount of time on our local fishery and shares our same passion for fishing and protecting it. We are looking forward to a great season with Sean and hope you get a chance to share a boat with him! Check out our Q and A below to learn more about Sean.

When did you start fly fishing,or just fishing in general?
I’ve been fishing since I was a little kid (4 or 5 y/o) taking trips to the Sierra Nevada mountains. My father has been an avid fly fisherman his whole life and passed the sport along to me. I had dabbled with fly fishing growing up, but mainly stuck to conventional until my later years in college (around 2020), when my dad gifted me my first fly rod. I threw my first cast (conventional) on the Spokane river back in 2017. As they say, the rest is history.

Without giving away your secret fishing spots, where do you prefer to fish?
I’ve got an intimately deep connection with our home waters in the Spokane river. It gives me a place of solitude and the ability to walk out my front door, fly rod in hand, and on the river in a matter of minutes. I truly see it as a hidden gem right out our back door. Aside from the home waters, I’ve got a special connection with the mountains and streams of BC and Alberta. I’ve been on countless trips up north with one goal in mind every time: explore and find new water. Also, once a year (usually when all the other fishing sucks) I enjoy going to stare at bobbers at the famous Pyramid Lake in Nevada in search of the world’s largest cutthroat. In addition to these places, I love how fly fishing seems to take me to different places for different fish as the seasons change throughout the year.

Fish for anything or is your preference to target a species like trout, bass, etc?
I definitely have a preference, but I’m open to most any fishing. Two of my easy favorites are bull trout and steelhead. There’s something about the intense challenge of finding and catching these migratory fish that really draws me to the chase. In addition, coming tight on a swung fly absolutely lights up my world. Aside from those two, I would have to say I love the fight of a wild redband trout and I love a cutty’s willingness to slurp a dry.

Dream fishing destination?
Tough choice between a patagonia trout trip and a coastal BC steelhead trip.

Preference for type of fly fishing? streamer, dry, bobber, euro, swing, etc
I would say my favorite method is swinging flies, whether those be buggy streamers, intruders, or soft hackles. Tied for second would be dry fly fishing and mousing/night fishing in general. Third would be stripping streamers from the boat. While not my favorite methods, you will absolutely still find me with a bobber/euro rig in my hands because it simply catches fish.

What else besides fly fishing do you enjoy? Ski or snowboard? Biking? Cooking? Long walks on the beach, etc
You mean there’s other things outside of fly fishing?? I enjoy snowboarding in the winter and camping in the summer (usually mixed with fishing lol). I’ve always had a passion for playing and watching basketball (go Zags and …Lakers). I love a good night of bowling too. I will sometimes dabble on the piano, guitar, or drums and enjoy finding new music. Aside from that, I enjoy spending time cooking and going on walks along the river with my significant other and our dog Bumi, who happens to be a great fishing dog (until you actually have a fish on).

Pre-Runoff Cutthroat Presentation

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 23:33:30 +0000

Increase your fishing season

We are bringing back our popular presentations here at the Silver Bow! Kicking off the first presentation of the spring season is a timely one, Pre-Runoff Cutthroat Fishing. There is life before summer on the nearby cutthroat rivers, and probably some of the best dry fly action of the year for quality fish!

The ever so fishy Kenyon Pitts will be presenting on all things "pre-runoff" for the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene and St. Joe Rivers. Learn the where, tactics, conditions, flies, and other tips to make your early season fishing successful.

If you are interested in signing up call us ASAP! ~~10 Spots~~ 2 Spots - Have your credit card handy, pre-payment required for presentations.

When - Wednesday April 2nd, 2025
Time - 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where - Silver Bow Fly Shop
Includes - drinks, snacks and handouts
Cost - $20.00, must pre-pay to enroll - 509-924-9998

Instructor

Kenyon Pitts

Spokane River Closes March 15th

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 19:57:27 +0000

Just a few more days for your local fix

If you are a Spokane River angler we are closing in on the annual March 15th closure on the Spokane River. The Spokane river is closed for fishing after March 15th, 2025 until it re-opens the Saturday before Memorial Day. Opening date this year will be May 24th, 2025.

The reason for the closure during this time period is to help protect Redbands during their spawn.

Currently the conditions are on the high side for the comfortable fishing, but even at these levels there is some opportunity, but very limited. Be careful if you decide to give it a try.

Cutty Season

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 23:45:49 +0000

The wait is over

March has arrived and for many fishing is moving from "a nice idea" to reality with actual fishing excursions starting to take place. This is the month when the cutthroat rivers like the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene and St. Joe Rivers start to perk back up from a long winter's nap, insects begin to hatch, and trout become more active.

While March is generally not red-hot cutthroat fishing, it can be fairly productive AND dry fly fishing starts to become more common as the month progresses. Each March is a little different and this month is bigtime weather / water dependent. Warm weather in March can bring on increased river flows especially when there is low elevation snow to melt.

Our snowpack in the Idaho drainages is not huge, but if the weather stays cool the snowpack should stay in check and March can remain fishable on the NF CDA and St. Joe. Don't live and die by the USGS graphs too. While there are some obvious "no-go" situations, these rivers can fish more often than not.

The best fishing on the nearby cutty rivers will typically be in the lower half of the drainages most years. The upper half of the NF CDA and the upper half of the St. Joe are snowed-in and roads are not plowed. The deeper / further upriver you go... the more winter-like it will be. And from my experience.... cutthroat trout can be a fair weather fish.

The wait is over, it's cutty season. Get out and enjoy it!

Idaho Guide Job Opportunity

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 00:03:37 +0000

The guide life

If you have ever wanted to be a fly fishing guide our outfitting partner in Idaho, ROW Adventures, is hiring! ROW is looking for a qualified and motivated individual to guide the NF of the Coeur d’Alene, St. Joe, and Clark Fork Rivers. This is a perfect career opportunity for a person wanting to get into the outdoor industry. It is also a great semi-retirement gig for those wanting to stay engaged and active after they have retired from another career but don’t want to sit idle. Check out the details over on ROW’s website. You can also reach out to Bo at our shop for some insight as he regularly books guests with ROW guides.

https://www.rowadventures.com/employment/one-day-fly-fishing-guide-experienced

Pesca Maya Lodge Trip with Bo

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 23:09:15 +0000

Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit...

If you are looking to get outta here and experience warm weather, sun, and saltwater fishing join Silver Bow’s Bo Brand this April for a fun 3-day trip to the waters of Ascension Bay. This world class saltwater destination is known for its productive bonefish, permit, and tarpon fishing. Why 3-days? Well it's quick and easy to fit a shorter fishing trip in with everyone's busy schedule, plus it keeps the cost down!

If this sounds of interest give Bo a shout at the shop 509-924-9998

When: April 7 - April 11th, 2025

Fishing Dates: April 8, 9, 10

Price: $3164

Availability: 2 spots

Included: Accommodations and meals at the lodge, private boat fishing, beer, soda, local liquor, wine, wifi, and round-trip transfer from Cancun to lodge.

Not Included: Airfare, accommodations and meals in Cancun, imported alcohol, fishing license, staff and guide gratuities.

Species: Bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, jacks and barracuda

Season: Year-round

Location: Pesca Maya Lodge is located on the outskirts of Punta Allen, Mexico on the north shore of Ascension Bay.

Spokane River Benefit / IF4 2025

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 23:30:42 +0000

Films, Fundraising, and Fun!

It's film festival time again! Help us cure the winter blues with an evening of fly fishing films and fundraising for the Spokane River! We have partnered with the Spokane Riverkeeper again as the sponsor for the International Fly Fishing Film Festival and Spokane River Fundraiser. We have a great list of raffle prizes with 100% of the proceeds from the raffles and film ticket sales going directly to the Spokane Riverkeeper team to help support their efforts in protecting our hometown fishery, the Spokane River.
Buy Tickets

Date - Thursday, February 27, 2025

Time - Doors 5:30 PM - Show 7:00 PM

Location - Garland Theater, 924 W Garland Ave, Spokane, Washington

This event is proudly sponsored by Silver Bow Fly Shop
and all proceeds will benefit Spokane Riverkeeper.

What to Expect:

- A showcase of breathtaking films, including New Beginnings, Native Range, Fishing Diaries, and Above the Clouds.
- Exciting raffle prizes generously provided by Silver Bow Fly Shop
- Opportunities to connect with fellow fly-fishing enthusiasts and support the Spokane Riverkeeper’s vital work in protecting our river.

Whether you're an avid angler or simply enjoy beautiful storytelling and cinematography, this event offers something for everyone.

For more information, including the full list of films and trailers, visit: https://www.flyfilmfest.com

Don’t miss your chance to support the Spokane Riverkeeper and enjoy an evening of adventure, conservation, and community. See you at the Garland Theater!

Gift Certificate Update

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:43:04 +0000

Good-to-go

Paper Silver Bow gift certificates are now usable at the shop. If you have received one of our paper style gift certificates in the last couple years they are now uploaded into our new software system and can be redeemed.

Note - We are now back to your normal (modern) credit card style gift card with our new point-of-sale system, they are available to purchase now.

Euro Tying Class

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 22:26:22 +0000

Building beyond the basics

Euro nymphing has exploded in popularity over the last few years, and for good reason. It can be a very effective method of catching fish and allows you to cover water in a different way than conventional indicator tactics. While the patterns for this technique aren’t known to be terribly complicated, there are some nuances I’ve found that can change the way your flies turn out.

I’m putting on this class to help expand your fly tying range and further your skills. This isn’t an entry level course; you should have a good understanding of fly tying fundamentals prior to enrolling. All materials will be provided, along with a material list if you’d like to stock up after the class. We will have vises/tools available for use, but please bring your own if you have them.

We will cover a variety of techniques and materials for this course. UV resins, hook/bead ratios, when and why to use certain materials, and more. We will tie 4 different patterns over the course of 2 hours.

Cost: $50

Date: 1/22/2025

Time: 6:00-8:00 PM

Sold Out

Instructor

Kenyon Pitts

Streamer Fly Tying Class

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 20:51:35 +0000

Streamer Fly Tying Class

Streamers are some of favorite fly patterns to tie for trout. There’s no messing around with tiny hooks, proportions are large, and you can experiment with all kinds of fun materials. For some anglers, a Wooly Bugger is the furthest they’ve ventured into the world of tying and fishing streamers. If you haven’t experienced a trout rushing from flooded willows to crush a sculpin pattern off your rod tip, you’re certainly missing out.

I’m putting on this class to help expand your fly tying range and further your skills. This isn’t an entry level course; you should have a good understanding of fly tying fundamentals prior to enrolling. All materials will be provided, along with a material list if you’d like to stock up after the class. We will have vises/tools available for use, but please bring your own if you have them.

We will cover some advanced concepts in this course. Dubbing loops, linking shanks, spinning vs. stacking deer hair and more. We will tie 3 different patterns over the course of two hours.

Cost: $50

Date: 1/29/2025

Time: 6:00-8:00 PM

Sold Out

Instructor

Kenyon Pitts

NRS Slipstream Raffle

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 20:36:35 +0000

Help support a great local conservation organization

Our friends over at Spokane Falls Trout Unlimited are raffling off a sweet NRS Slipstream 142 Raft Package this upcoming May! Ticket sales benefit the local TU chapter which is focused on helping protect and restore the Spokane River and the connecting watersheds. Don't miss out on this opportunity, tickets are limited!

NRS SLIPSTREAM 142 RAFT PACKAGE RAFFLE

BENEFITTING SPOKANE FALLS TROUT UNLIMITED

Spokane Falls Trout Unlimited Raffle

Grand Prize: NRS Slipstream 142 Fishing Raft Package

RAFT PACKAGE DETAILS HERE

2nd Prize: 36’’ Blackstone Griddle + Accessories

3rd Prize: Single hand 10wt. fly rod + custom, hand-tied Josh Mills flies

$100/ticket; no more than 150 tickets will be sold

Drawing will be held on May 1, 2025 at 6pm.

Drawing location: Lumberbeard Brewing, Spokane, Washington

TO PURCHASE:

EMAIL: diane@spokanefallstu.org

OR CALL: Diane Ragan Smith, Fundraising Chair at 509-944-5565
RULES: Do not have to be present to win.1. Must be 18 years of age to participate. 2. Prize will not be awarded in cash. 3. Winner is responsible for shipping, pickup and/or delivery costs associated with acquiring the raft or other prizes from Spokane, WA. 4. Raft trailer, oars and anchor are not included in grand prize package. 5. Due to United States Post Service regulations and federal laws, no raffle tickets or payments may be sent via US mail. 6. Tickets may be purchased via cash, Venmo, or credit card from a Spokane Falls Trout Unlimited Volunteer; Visit www.spokanefallstu.org for complete raffle details. Contact info@spokanefallstu.org for more info.

Intro Fly Tying Dates 2024/2025

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:05:30 +0000

Simple, fun, informative!

The format is a bit different this year. We will have material kits assembled to tie four different patterns. All materials will be included, and these are full material packs. A tying vise and all tools will be available for use. Material kits are yours to keep, vise/tools will be available for purchase after the class.

While this class is geared towards beginner tiers, there will be plenty of tips and tricks that even a seasoned fly tyer could learn a lot from.

We will focus on trout patterns for the Spokane region, but these techniques can be applied to all styles of fly tying down the road.

This will be an excellent opportunity to learn from Kenyon about some of his favorite fly patterns and how to tie them!

Give the shop a call or stop in to get on the calendar, as these dates will go quickly! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Dates Available:

Day Date Time

Wednesday December 4, 2024 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out

Wednesday January 15, 2025 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out

Wednesday February 5, 2025 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out

Wednesday February 12, 2025 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out

Wednesday February 26, 2025 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out

Wednesday March 5, 2025 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out

Cost - $60.00
Where - Silver Bow Fly Shop - 13210 E Indiana Ste 100
Includes - Take home a material kit to tie all four patterns. We provide use of a vise / tools and 2 hours of instruction
Availability - Space is limited to 4 students

Instructor

Kenyon Pitts

2025 Cinco Rios Hosted Trip

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 18:55:03 +0000

Big browns. Dry flies. Fun.

I'm headed back to Chilean Patagonia this upcoming March and have just a few available spaces. This is a unique trout fishing trip that is split between two different locations with an opportunity to extend three extra days of fishing for gigantic lake-run-browns further south.

Early this year my significant other Jennifer and I, with a couple friends, went to check out Cinco Rios offerings and were impressed with the amount of rivers they had access to. The package that we have put together is as follows:

The Best of Patagonia - 6 days / 7 nights

Cinco Rios operates two lodges, Estancia Del Zorro and Cinco Rios. This week is split between the two locations with three days of fishing at each. The first three days is spent at Estancia Del Zorro, a working ranch, approximately 1.45hrs from Cinco with dozens of miles of private spring creeks. If small, intimate waters with large brown tout is your thing, EDZ is your place! After three days of spring creek fishing we are transferred over to Cinco Rios Lodge in Coyhaique, Chile. Here we will float a variety of rivers for quality rainbows and browns. There are also stillwater opportunities for trophy trout in this region.

Date - March 8th - 15th, 2025
Cost - $6750 / per person
Availability - 1 space for EDZ / Cinco Rios. The Lake Run Browns is sold out.

Included - Lodging, guiding, food, ground transportation to and from Balmaceda Airport

Not Included - International / Domestic Airfare, gratuity, tackle. Guides have a limited amount of tackle in Chile, I always recommend traveling with your own. The lodge does have some tackle, but really all you need is 5 and 6wts… and if you are reading this far chances are you have those rods :)

Boca Cerrada (Lake Run Browns) - Optional Trip Extension for 3 Days of Fishing

For anglers wanting a shot at trophy brown trout this trip extension is where it’s at. After the first week of fishing we are venturing south (approximately 2hr van + 2.5hr ferry ride) to a river that receives large lake-run-brown trout. Here we will have the opportunity to swing and high stick streamers for MEGA fish upwards of 30 inches… like the brown pictured above! I would consider this similar to steelheading, there are no guarantees, but there is potential for a fish-of-a-lifetime. This trip is walk/wade only for anglers that are comfortable with hiking a boulder strewn river and casting 7 or 8wt rods all day… if you have a bad shoulder, or don’t like wading rivers, this trip is not for you!

Date - March 15th - 20th, 2025 (3 days of fishing, March 15th & 19th are travel days)
Cost - $3971 / per person
Availability - SOLD OUT
Included - Lodging, guiding, food, ground transportation to and from Cinco Rios Lodge
Not Included - gratuity, 7 or 8wt rods. Guides have a limited amount of tackle in Chile and I do not recommend relying on their gear
2024 Trip Summary

Please feel free to email or call the shop if you would like to join or have questions!

509-924-9998 or email flyfish@silverbowflyshop.com

River Thoughts of a Steelhead Bum

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 18:58:43 +0000

A good return and good times

I’m fortunate to spend most of my Fall season rowing folks down the Grande Ronde River in Southeast Washington. I started fishing here with my dad when I was 11 years old, and after landing my first steelhead the following year, I’ve been obsessed with the pursuit of anadromous trout around the West. I started guiding the Grande Ronde in 2018 and have since spent countless hours fishing this river with clients and friends.

I’ve always thought this to be one of the most unique and scenic fisheries in the region. Every bend on the river offers a picturesque view the seemingly belongs on a postcard. Towering basalt canyon walls, abundant wildlife and the high desert landscape easily distract you from the elusive steelhead making their migration upstream. Every day I take a moment to look up and appreciate how special a place it is.

It's always an interesting transition going from targeting trout all summer to their ocean-run cousins. 7 and 8 wt. rods come down from the rack and the 5 wt. rods go into storage. A size 6 fly is now small to me, and I haven’t touched a spool of 4x tippet in weeks. Many trout anglers measure success by how many hit the net, while with steelhead we’re just hoping for an opportunity to encounter a single fish. While it may not be for everyone, I look forward to this every year.

The last few weeks have been pretty typical for me. Some days we get multiple shots at fish per angler, others you may get one or none. Regardless of the increase in fish returns, steelhead fishing is not a numbers game. You must be ok with not catching fish. I’ve gone days, even weeks without hooking a steelhead. Stick to trout fishing if you need to put a dozen fish in the net every day you go out. Don’t get me wrong, I love trout and always will. But it only takes that one tug from a pissed off chromer to make my day or even whole season.

With more fish returning than we’ve seen in quite a few years, I’ve noticed a substantial increase in angler traffic. It’s easy to get frustrated by busy rivers, people fishing in “your” spot, and not having the entire river to yourself. Some days you may need to get creative. Find new water, fish a different stretch than you’re used to, or immerse yourself among the other anglers and make it work. If you’re going to race down the river to beat everyone else, don’t be upset when you’re off the water with half a day left to fish. You could just hang back, chat with other anglers, maybe learn something and make a new friend? Remember, we’re all out there trying to do the same thing. It sure isn’t always about sticking every fish in the river.

If you see us down there this season, say hello or give us a wave. We’re always having a good time and should be easy to find!

Kenyon

Fish Rite Power Drifter For Sale

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 21:06:24 +0000

Just in time for steelhead season!

We are helping a good fishing buddy of ours sell his 2012 Fish Rite Power Drifter jet boat. Power drifter style boats combine features of jet boats and the rowing capabilities of drift boats to make a unique style fishing machine. They are perfect for larger rivers like the Clearwater, Snake River, Upper Columbia, Kootenai and beyond. Zip upriver... then row down and fish! They also make for good stillwater fishing boats.

It comes with the following:

2012 Fish Rite Power Drifter - 18' - aluminum

R&D Baker galvanized trailer w/spare tire and jack

60HP Evinrude ETEC Motor (low hours, only used a handful of times a year)

UHMW bottom

2 Cataract oars / blades

Boat Cover

Anchor / rope

Oar locks, movable

2 gas tanks

Removable front and rear casting braces

2 seats on movable storage bench

Bow and stern storage

Rod storage along gunnels

Price: $20,000

Contact us if interested and we can schedule a time to check out the boat.

More Pics on Craigslist Ad: https://post.craigslist.org/manage/7790295851

Is September the Best Month?

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 23:31:12 +0000

Cooler temps, consistent weather, improved fishing.

When you look at the course of the fishing season there are some months that really stand out for great fishing opportunities.

We of course love spring, months like April, May and June which offer excellent insect hatches (if not the best), but these months can be plagued with spring runoff so hitting the rivers when they are not raging can be limited. Summertime like July and August can be sweltering heat, tons of inner tubers, extreme water temps and hoot-owl conditions on nearby Montana rivers. They’re called the dog days for a reason! That leaves us months like September, October, and MAYBE November to round out the “main” fishing season. We won’t include the winter months because frankly, hardly anyone fishes those months!

Out of the “fall-ish” months of September - November, September really stands out in my opinion. September has all the traits of summer with warmer temps, consistent weather, and terrestrial fishing opportunities. However, what really starts to change is kids are back in school so tourist angling pressure is down, the infamous inner tuber hatch is minimal if not over, night time temps cool off which helps bring down water temperatures, big fish come back to play a little more often, and stillwater opportunities start to show up again. Another major advantage of September versus spring, is that there are no major runoff occurrences to bugger up river levels. Top it off with the transition into fall hatches like mahogany duns and October caddis.

Oh... and how could I forget... steelhead start showing up in September!

So with all the “pluses” for why September could be the best month for fishing (at least in our region) I just might have to go out on a limb here and say it has my vote for the best.

See you in the shop or on the water!

Spokane River Cleanup Sept 14th

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 21:06:42 +0000

Keep the 'Kan Clean

The annual Spokane River Fall Cleanup is just around the corner! Every year the Spokane Riverkeeper, Spokane Landscouncil, and Spokane River Forum join forces with hundreds of volunteers to remove a crazy amount of trash along the banks of the Spokane River.

Trash along our beautiful river is and will be a constant battle from homeless camps and lazy river users treating our waterway like their personal garbage can. If you would like to help our local conservation groups and clean the river this is a great opportunity to lend a hand!

When: September 14th, 10:00 am

Where: Spokane Valley Locations or High Bridge Park

More Info and Sign Up: https://www.spokaneriverkeeper.org/calendar/2024/9/14/upriver-scrub-and-great-spokane-river-cleanup

Awesome August

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 18:32:25 +0000

Have you been fishing?

I don't want to jinx anything but... how nice has August turned out so far??! Smoke free skies, temps have cooled off, water levels hanging in there... I don't know what else an angler could want in August!

In the fishing guide industry August is known as "Angry August". Guides have become super salty after so many days of the same repetitive thing.... mend, mend, mend, set, set, set, don't worry about losing that we will tie on another rig, mend, mend, mend, etc you get the picture.

I don't think there is a lot of Angry August going on in the west this year, seems like a lot of guides have more days off than not this season. Not sure 100% what the reason is for reduced trips in the west... maybe it was the early hoot-owl restrictions, low water, heat, etc got people changing or cancelling fishing plans. Either way, guides are fishing more than they are rowing people around this August... which has reduced the angriness and improved the mental health.

The rivers are a bit quieter though than in years past. Not void of people, don't get me wrong, folks are fishing, but maybe just not as many.

With Montana lifting a number of hoot-owl restrictions recently this opens up a lot of water for Spokane / Coeur d'Alene anglers that want to hit rivers like the lower Clark Fork near St. Regis. You don't have to get out of bed quite as early, and you don't need to stop fishing in the afternoons.

I've been up on the NF Coeur d'Alene and St. Joe Rivers every week this past month and once on the Spokane. Never had too many problems finding fishable water. Yes, the water is low, but it always is in August. The key to the NF Coeur d'Alene is just find water with depth. The St. Joe has better trenches and pools to fish since the river necks down in so many places so there is no issue of where to find them there. Overnight lows on the St. Joe have been getting into the mid-upper 40's too, reported Mike who was there over the weekend.

The guide crew on the Spokane has had positive reports. While streamer fishing may be getting more of the bigger fish, the dry / dropper fishing has been finding fish no problem. The tuber hatch is also minimized with cooler temps. I would like a little more volume in the river, but we are lucky we have a minimum flow requirement so thankfully we are not completely dry.

And let's not forget steelhead! A fair amount of fish being caught in the Clearwater recently... numbers are looking good! More on that in another post.

In June / July I was sure we would be thick with smoke in August and the rivers dried up and all sorts of fishing restrictions... that certainly has not been the case. It's actually pretty dang awesome for August! Get after it while it's still summer!

The Subtlety of Summer

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 17:43:46 +0000

Stealth and speed can go a long way

The dog days of summer are here which means low water, bright sunny days, hot temps, and educated fish.
By August trout have seen a variety of natural and man-made insects making them extra discerning when selecting a helpless drifting insect.

This particularness is noticeable in how the trout react to your fly patterns. Takes during the dog days of summer are typically quick and subtle. Long gone are the days of spring where trout can rise with reckless abandon to a marginally adequate presentation. Those post winter days where river flows are high and fish are hungry are a thing of the past.

Understanding this and adjusting your mindset and attention to the subtleness takes a little practice but doing a few things can help increase your odds...

A quick hookset - Talking to Silver Bow guide Kenyon who guides the Spokane River weekly said, "The anglers who are quick to the take are hooking and landing fish".

Lighter tippet - Downsize your tippet a size smaller. Stealthier and improved drift.

Longer leaders - Same concept as downsizing your tippet. A little extra distance between your fly and fly line helps with presentation too. Instead of 9' leaders buy longer 12' leaders, or at least add a couple feet to your existing 9' leader.

Make your first drift count - I've been on the NF Coeur d'Alene and St. Joe Rivers the past couple weeks and if you weren't paying attention on the first drift or the first drift sucked, well your odds go down significantly.

One shot - Paying attention, being quick to the take, and making a good presentation still typically only affords you one shot. Fish during the dog days are educated and aren't coming back for a second look. You get one shot during the dog days and the more you are on your game, the higher your odds of hooking and landing fish.

We still have plenty of summer and opportunities left. Make the most of them and enjoy the time on the water!

Spokane River Water Temps

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 02:55:37 +0000

Low and cold

What a heat wave! We love summer... but we are ready for fall and I'm sure you are too.

Luckily we have an urban fishery that stays cool from aquifer recharge. As river levels subside from spring runoff, and lake Coeur d'Alene reaches it's summer level, the amount of warm water coming over the dam in Post Falls is greatly reduced and the aquifer water influences the river more.

Lately even with the crazy heatwave, the temps have stayed below 62 degrees. Well within the safe range for trout.

The Spokane Riverkeeper has temperature loggers setup in various spots in the Spokane. The most important one is located in Peaceful Valley. The logger located in the Spokane Valley is above the aquifer influx (Sullivan Bridge) which only has trout during the spring and fall, the summer it's just bass as the trout has moved downstream to colder water once summer temps hit.
Spokane River Water Temperatures

Tour De West with Skwala

Sat, 13 Jul 2024 00:21:02 +0000

Fish stories and more at the Silver Bow!

Come hangout with Silver Bow, Ed Anderson artist and owner of Drift West out of McCall, Idaho and check out the latest from our friends at Skwala!

Enjoy beverages, food, and plenty of fish talk with the crew at the Silver Bow

Thursday July 18th at the Silver Bow Fly Shop - 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Spokane River Guided Fishing Trips

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 17:28:07 +0000

Scenic, quality, close to home

Flowing right through the heart of Spokane, this unique urban fishery is home to native Redband trout, westslope cutthroat, mountain whitefish, and wild brown trout. While the Spokane River may not be the first river you think of for a fishing destination, most anglers leave pleasantly surprised how well the river fishes, the quality of the water, and the beautiful setting that makes the Spokane River Gorge special.

Our float trips run approximately 6hrs, which may sound like an odd amount of hours when compared to your typical full-day trips of 8hrs, trust us, you will definitely feel like you have fished a full session when done. We skip the fancy 45-60 min lunch and provide guests with a nice assorted charcuterie style food mix, drinks, and non-stop fishing. There isn’t much downtime on where to place your fly on the Spokane!

The Spokane is perfect for beginner anglers and experts alike. With a little instruction from our veteran guide crew a new fly fisher can be fishing and have plenty of opportunities to net their first trout. Seasoned anglers will love the dynamics of the river structure, tricky currents, and cunning Redband trout that can put up a tremendous fight.

If the Spokane River fishery has been on your radar, or you are just curious to try new water, give us a call and let us show you our hometown river.

For reservations and more info please contact Silver Bow Guide Manager Bo Brand. 509-924-9998 or flyfish@silvlerbowflyshop.com

Jammin' June

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 23:58:35 +0000

The year is half over, have you been fishing?

June is jammin'. Peak season is upon us, and it's pretty much peak season everywhere in the Rocky Mountains. Rivers are in shape in many areas, bugs are hatching, temps good, fish happy.

Some areas in MT / ID / WY are still in runoff with a delayed start because of late season snow, rain, then a later warm-up. That's okay though, lots of options out there and it's good for the rivers to get a delayed start.

This immediate region which is the Spokane River, North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, and St. Joe have been fishable all spring. Lighter snowpack and gradual runoff kept them in shape all April, May, and now June. There will be no more increases in water levels.

Our salmonflies have been mostly wrapped up for a bit now, though you might see a random one on the upper St. Joe, and our guide Randy Dingman saw some on the lower Spokane this past weekend. The big bugs are popping on the western and southwestern Montana rivers like the Blackfoot, West Fork Bitterroot, Big Hole, etc.

PMD's, goldens, yellow sallies, caddis, and drakes are the main players here. Depending on the river, which stretch of river, and other factors like air / water temps will dictate what you see.

If there isn't much hatching prospecting with a chubby (or stonefly dry) with a 24-30" dropper is the way to go. Droppers like perdigons, spanish bullets, tungsten caddis pupa, tungsten jig patterns, etc will cover you. A smaller pats rubber leg dropper can be good too.

Aside from the crazy amount of wind we seem to get anymore, I'd say spring has been great. The cooler in the upcoming forecast will keep it plugging along, though a little rain would be nice.

Take advantage of the great spring fishing, go now.

Kenyon's Spokane River Update

Thu, 30 May 2024 19:27:04 +0000

Back to your regularly scheduled programming

Like many of us around here, I view the annual Spokane River opener as a local Holiday. Post-work fishing sessions become the norm, and my time on the water increases exponentially having the river right out the back door.

Flows are lower than usual for this time of year, which makes it much easier to get out on the river. In past seasons, flows have been running so high that the river was hardly even fishable on the opener. With the current levels sitting just under 5000 CFS, floating and wade fishing are both worthy options.

Jesse and I spent some time on foot down in Riverside State Park over the weekend and were able to find plenty of willing fish on dry-dropper combos and euro rigs. We saw a good amount of Salmonflies crawling around in the bushes, which will keep fish interested in large dry fly patterns for the next few weeks. We don’t typically see many of the big bugs on the Spokane, so it was really cool running across some of these floating cheeseburgers.

I floated both the upper and lower river Monday and Tuesday. We had good luck on dry-dropper rigs, with quite a few fish coming to the surface for the large dry fly. Chubby Chernobyls and Water Walkers were the best producers; purple, red and royal were the best colors. Caddis nymphs with a tungsten bead, tan or peacock in size 12-14 worked great for a dropper nymph. Double nymph and euro rigs produced as well. Heavy stonefly nymphs like a tungsten bead Pats Rubber Legs or Twenty Incher, along with a caddis nymph produced all day long. Streamer fishing also was worthy, with some really nice rainbows and a few brown trout coming out of the willows to crush a fly on the strip. Sparkle Minnows and Sculpzillas were our best patterns.

Hopefully everyone had a chance to get on the river this past weekend, it sure was fishy. This will be one of the best options around all summer long, since the river stays colder than many of the other streams in the region. Swing by the shop and let us know how its been for you! We love hearing fish stories and seeing photos of your success.

Spokane River Fishing

Tue, 28 May 2024 23:35:13 +0000

The river is life

Silver Bow guide Jesse Retan reflects on the Spokane River opener this past weekend. His summary below...

"The weather is moody, the wind continuous with heavy gusts. Shorts and sandals are acceptable, but so is a puffy.

The riparian zone along the river is green and fertile and full of native and non-natives. An ecological smorgasbord.

The fresh smell of spring fills the air. Caddis landing and bumping into my face as the wind pushes them up river.

Dry dropper from start to finish.

The river is life. And I live for sharing this beautiful place with other people."

Memorial Day Fishing Forecast

Tue, 21 May 2024 23:13:30 +0000

River are ready to roll

There are two significant weekends for most angler's fishing season. One being Memorial Day and the other Labor Day.

For many fly anglers, at least those in the Rocky Mountain region, these two weekends are like bookends to their fishing season. The start and the end. Though many great fishing days, and potentially the best ones, are before and after these big weekends the time between these dates is prime time for trout, weather, water flows, and time off from work.

This year will be no exception for "prime time" fishing conditions to kick off the season. Lower snow pack created a mild runoff so there wasn't anything really crazy in terms of blowouts, yet the good thing about current weather is because temps are staying on the cooler side it has slowed down the melting of the final patches of snow. Hopefully that will maintain the river levels just a little longer.

When I look at the weather, current water levels, and projected water levels I'd say Memorial Day Weekend's fishing forecast is shaping up to be pretty good.

North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene / St. Joe River forecast:

As of right now Saturday will be a cooler mixed weather day which means places like the upper St. Joe River will be slower. Cutthroat don't like cold temps and fast water. The North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River being a more mild gradient will fish no matter the temp right now. Both drainages are going to be worth it, just note the higher up you go on the Joe the less "prime" it gets. It's a bigger, colder drainage and lags behind the NF CDA. The mid and lower stretches of the St. Joe have been good since March. Sunday and Monday's weather forecast is looking more favorable for the fair weather angler, that just means more fishing folks will be out those days!

Now currently the NOAA stream forecast for these rivers do show a little bump in the flows later in the week, though it's not anything significant enough to get worked up over and realistically the predictions are 60% accurate at BEST.

Hatches on the Idaho cutthroat rivers have ranged from PMD's, caddis, drakes, yellow sallies, and golden stones. There are still some salmonflies, March browns, and skwalas out, but I wouldn't expect to see much and if you did it would likely be on the St. Joe River from Avery upstream. I was on the upper North Fork Coeur d'Alene early last week and did see a couple salmonflies. Fish will more than likely still go for these types of patterns still since they were on the menu not too long ago.

Spokane River forecast:

The Spokane River from the Washington / Idaho stateline downstream to Nine Mile Falls Dam opens this Saturday May 25th. This drainage will probably see a little bigger bump since it is affected by both the North Fork CDA and St. Joe levels. If the NF CDA / St. Joe bump, then the Spokane will bump. Again though... those odds are not super high.

Current levels for the Spokane River will be high and fishable. Not as high as your average Memorial Day Weekend though. Use caution if you plan on fishing it, it's a big swift river with greasy boulders.

If temps get warm enough plan on some caddis to hatch, though they tend to like it warmer than what's predicted. It is a safe bet opening weekend to fish a rubber leg stone nymph with a caddis pupa under an indicator, or a euro rig setup the same. The Spokane River does get salmonflies and generally around opener there is a small window to fish said bugs so a big chubby chernobyl or salmonfly pattern could buy some trout too. At these bigger levels we do love streamer fishing too!

Final thoughts... It's spring and the local rivers are fishable... GO FISHING!

Have a great weekend!

Shop Day Off Trip Report

Thu, 09 May 2024 18:55:17 +0000

No fun was had.>

We took a much needed break from shop life and got the team out for a day on the water. While weather conditions maybe weren't ideal, it was the best day on all of our schedules to make a day trip happen, so to the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene we went!

Like the weather this time of the year can be a mixed bag of bugs. Any one day you could see salmonflies, skwala stones, pmd's, grey drakes, yellow sally stones, March browns, and caddis. We didn't check off the whole list, but we certainly saw a mix of insects.

With colder temps, hatches were dampered until late afternoon which also made for later day dry fly action. We took the boats out around 5pm and really probably could have stayed on the water another hour or so as the fishing was improving on the surface. Morning and mid day was best subsurface. The upcoming forecast will shift that dry fly window up a bit and make for better dry fly fishing earlier in the day again.

There certainly were some slow stretches but we found fish throughout our float and overall fish size was pretty good. We will take quality over quantity anyday! Plus I'm a believer that those stormy, cloudy, inclement weather days bring out the bigger fish. Like the old Simms slogan... forget the forecast!

We enjoyed our day out of the shop together and will probably work a few more of these into the regularly scheduled program before it gets to be too long again.

Shop Closed Tuesday 5/7

Mon, 06 May 2024 23:20:42 +0000

Time to fish!

The crew and I are long overdue for a shop fishing day. We are going to shut the shop down for the day so we can all go fishing together on Tuesday 5/7. The last time we all went fishing together was probably 2019. Time for a much needed “mental therapy” day. Thanks for understanding!

Regular shop hours Wednesday 5/8.

See you back in the shop Wednesday!

Trout Tour May 9th

Wed, 01 May 2024 00:21:05 +0000

100% trout films!

Join us and Spokane Falls Trout Unlimited next week at the Magic Lantern on Main for the first annual Fly Fusion Trout Tour!

Spokane Falls TU is raffling off a guided fly fishing trip with Silver Bow on the Spokane River and some other great prizes! Proceeds from raffles and a portion of ticket sales go to supporting the local chapter.

Tickets available online and at the door if available: https://www.flyfusionmag.com/trouttour-spokanewa/

Date: May 9th, 2024
Time: 7:00 pm
Doors Open: 6:00 pm

Fly Fusion's Trout Tour Sizzle. Get Your Tickets! from IF4™ on Vimeo.

Five Friday Fun Facts

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 17:44:20 +0000

Getting dialed with Bjorn

The work week is wrapping up and rivers are in shape for a good weekend of fishing! Today's Friday Fun Facts is none other than Bjorn Ostby. A day in the boat with Bjorn will be filled with fishing wisdom, laughter, and of course plenty of fish catching opportunities!

1 - Bjorn started guiding with the Silver Bow in 2016

2 - He mostly guides the Spokane River during the summer, but occasional guides the Grande Ronde for steelhead

3 - Bjorn's main profession is an elementary teacher in Chattaroy, Washington

4 - Bjorn's summers are filled with fishing trips to MT and ID in between guide days

5 - Bjorn is one hell-of-a fly tyer! We have sold many of his fish catching creations in the shop over the years.

Have a great weekend on the water!

NRS Approach 120 For Sale

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 17:38:18 +0000

Any river. Any size. Any time

The weekend is just about here and fishing has been solid this week! We are wrapping up this week with another Five Fun Facts featuring SBFS Guide Randy Dingman. If you ever have spent time with Randy in the boat you know you are in for a fun day!

Enter the all new NRS Approach 120. Designed for everything including places unknown.

With the popularity of angling (and any outdoor activity) increasing over the years anglers have been getting craftier than ever looking for off the beaten path spots and put-ins to get away from the crowds. NRS has answered the need for a high-performance, well built two-man raft with their new Approach 120.

The Approach 120 is an angler driven designed fishing raft. It features an ergonomic casting brace for the front angler, underseat storage, built in rod storage, easy pull anchor system and most of all... a lightweight design for two people to carry in/out of precarious boat launches or to toss in the bed of a truck.

Like it's bigger brother the NRS Slipstream series, the Approach fishing rafts feature a drop stitch floor creating a super firm platform to stand on, think of it like a paddle board.

If you are in the market for a new raft and any of these features sound appealing come see us at the Silver Bow.

NRS Slipstream 129 Raft

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 21:57:00 +0000

Fishing, floating, and fun... available NOW!

Now that we have entered spring floating trout rivers has been a hot topic here at the fly shop. With temps around 70 degrees this past weekend it sure feels like it and reports from the NF Coeur d'Alene and St. Joe Rivers were great... especially from those with boats!

If you have been on the fence about joining the raft world, now is the opportunity to snag one of these popular fishing rafts while it's available.

The NRS Slipstream 129 (12' 9" length) is the ideal size for your typical fishing trip around the west. Plenty of space for gear or dry bags, roomy enough for two anglers and the rower, but not too large and heavy. This length / width of raft will handle any size river around the Spokane / Coeur d'Alene region.

Raft packages do not include: oars / blades or anchor. We have a variety of oars in-stock and tornado anchors.

AVAILABLE NOW - $5495

Specs

Ultra Durable 12' 9" Raft

NRS Frame Construction + Fittings

Rower's Low Back Padded Seat

NRS 8" Oar Mounts

NRS Atomic Aluminum Oarlocks

Bow Angler's Raised Folding Padded Tempress Seat

Bow Angler Molded Thigh Hook

Raft Package Contents:

Stern Angler Folding Padded Tempress Seat

Stern Angler Molded Thigh Hook

Internal Anchor System

SpinLock Anchor Lock

3/8” Anchor Line - 40'

Dual Rod Holder - Fits (2) 9' Rods

(4) HD Tie-Down Straps

Super 2 HP Pump

Weight: Raft Only: 100 lbs

Series: Slipstream

Length: 12' 9"

Width: 6'

Five Friday Fun Facts

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 18:05:37 +0000

Guiding with Uncle D

The weekend is just about here and fishing has been solid this week! We are wrapping up this week with another Five Fun Facts featuring SBFS Guide Randy Dingman. If you ever have spent time with Randy in the boat you know you are in for a fun day!

1 - Randy began guiding in 2010.

2 - Randy started guiding the Spokane River / Grande Ronde with the SBFS for two seasons 2014 / 2015.

3 - He guided on Lake Coeur d’Alene from 2016-2020 for pike and chinook.

4 - After a break from the guiding world Randy is back guiding as of 2023 in Washington State and Idaho.

5 - When Randy isn’t guiding you can find him on the golf course, ski hill, or painting on canvas.

Enjoy the great spring weather!

Five Friday Fun Facts

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 18:02:14 +0000

Boatloads of fun with Bill!

It's Friday and time for another Five Fun Facts featuring Idaho guide Bill Johnson. Bill is living his retirement dream as a fly fishing guide in North Idaho.

1 - We started working with Bill in 2016.

2 - Bill guides the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene and St. Joe Rivers for ROW Outfitters.

3 - Prior to retirement Bill was in construction as a carpenter and home builder.

4 - Bill LOVES to golf!

5 - If Bill ain't guiding or golfing, he's fishing!

Happy Friday!

Images from the Joe

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 18:54:01 +0000

Early Season

Took a drive up the St Joe River to checkout river condtions. The water is currently in great shape, but still on the cold side being at 42 degrees. There were a few nemoras and skwalas out, but mostly march browns and bwo's. Fishing has been good so get out and enjoy it.

Five Friday Fun Facts

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 17:12:00 +0000

Fish, Soccer, Nature

Friday is here and so is another Five Fun Facts featuring Silver Bow guide Jesse Retan. Jesse has a passion for fish, nature, and preserving wild places with wild critters.

1 - Jesse started at the Silver Bow in 2022.

2 - His other passion in life is soccer.

3 - He has been the Boy’s Director of Coaching for the Spokane Sounders for over a decade.

4 - During the season he guides the Spokane River weekly

5 - Jesse has played soccer since he was 4 which eventually led to playing in college and beyond college in semi-professional PDL and NPSL leagues.

Enjoy the weekend!

Five Friday Fun Facts

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 21:24:12 +0000

The fish catching machine

We are heading into a good weekend of fishing opportunities with another Five Fun Facts Friday. Today is all things fishy with Kenyon Pitts. In case you haven't noticed on our social media Kenyon just flat out catches fish.

1 - Kenyon started at the Silver Bow the summer of 2017 guiding the Spokane River

2 - He splits his time between guiding the Spokane River, Grande Ronde and working in the shop

3 - If Kenyon has a free day off from the shop or guiding the odds of him fishing are almost 100%

4 - Kenyon teaches our fly tying courses and private fly fishing instruction

5 - Aside from long walks along river banks Kenyon can be found on stillwater chasing carp or bass

Enjoy the beautiful weather this weekend!

Chile Patagonia Trip Summary

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 21:28:50 +0000

Hopper fishing in February

If dry fly fishing and brown trout are your thing I believe Chilean Patagonia is your place! If you have followed our blog / fly shop for any length of time you know we have done some South American trout fishing and have always enjoyed what it has to offer.

This round I decided to try the Chile side of Patagonia, whereas our last trips were in Argentina. Like Argentina it did NOT disappoint one bit!

My significant other Jen and I were accompanied by a couple other friends as we explored the Cinco Rios operation. Sebastian Galilea, the owner, operates two different lodges; Cinco Rios and Estancia Del Zorro.

Cinco Rios is situated in the picturesque town of Coyhaique and caters to guests looking to float rivers and lakes. It is tucked into the mountains a bit and has a more rainforest vibe versus their other operations. The second lodge, Estancia Del Zorro, is located approximately an hour away and is littered with miles of spring creeks inhabited by some very large brown trout. The Estancia has a charming rustic feel and is miles from the nearest town.

One of the unique experiences to the operation is that guests can split their week between the two, three days at Zorro, three days at Cinco. That is exactly what we did and you truly get the best of what Patagonia has to offer.

After my friends departed back to the states, Jen and I continued south to another operation Cinco Rios offers for a shot at epically portioned lake run brown trout. This addition to our journey wasn't quite as planned as we weren't sure the timing would work, but luckily there were some browns on the move and we were able to check out another river system. I would equate the last two and half days of our fishing more like "steelhead" fishing back home. You had to work hard and cover water, but you could be rewarded with a fish of a lifetime.

Until next year Patagonia!

Last Day To Fish Spokane River March 15th

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 17:23:21 +0000

Get your last few cast in...

The annual seasonal closure on the Spokane River is March 15th, 2024. That means the last day to make some cast is March 15th. On March 16th it is closed until May 25th, 2024 (Saturday before Memorial Day).

The river is closed during this time to protect spawning Redband trout. This is also spawning time for native Westslope cutthroat trout that inhabit the river. Generally the Spokane River flows are pretty high during this window so it's not like it would be highly fishable anyways.

With lower than average snowpack this winter I anticipate an early start to the fishing season once it opens up late May. The motto this year is to get your fishing in early.

Currently flows are high-but-fishable. Levels have been dropping slightly creating a few better opportunities. There have been some skwala stones hatching along with midges and bwo's. Catching Spokane River trout on dries this time of the year is a limited opportunity, streamer and nymph fishing will be far more consistent. It doesn't hurt to go a little bigger / flashier with your bugs this time of the year too FYI.

Enjoy the last few days!

Five Friday Fun Facts

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 19:33:00 +0000

The man, the myth, the legend.

We are wrapping up our week here at the shop with another 5 Fun Facts Friday. This week we are featuring the man, the myth, and the legend that is Bo Brand. He’s a highly talented angler and an even better human.

1 - Bo started at the Silver Bow spring of 2012.

2 - If you have booked a guide trip in the past decade odds are you have talked to Bo as he manages all things guiding here at the Silver Bow.

3 - Bo loves fishing everything in freshwater but his true love is warm tropical flats fishing as he has hosted trips to Cuba, Christmas Island and Belize.

4 - Bo guided from 2012-2017 on the Spokane Grande Ronde.

5 - Bo knows.

Early Lake Season

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 21:56:44 +0000

Early Lake Season

Its been a few years since the March 1st opener lakes have been iced off and fishable right out of the gate. Especially with the Spokane being high and tough to fish, having a few local options to get out on the water is a welcome opportunity. With the cold nights we’ve been having the last few days, some of the lakes are getting some skim ice which could make launching boats difficult. We heard a report of the boat launch at Coffeepot being iced in, and I saw a photo of some ice on Amber, but this shouldn’t be an issue for long with some warmer temps in the forecast.

Jesse and I have fished Medical lake a few times and the fishing has been pretty solid so far. We’ve been finding fish in deep water, sometimes as far down as 20 ft underneath a slip-style strike indicator. The balanced leech has been the top performer, either in purple or black with a hot bead. Trailing a blob fly off the leech picked up some fish as well. A lot of the takes were very subtle, and it seemed like you had to let the fish chew on the fly a bit before setting the hook.

No reports yet from the Central Washington lakes, but Lenice, Lenore, Dry Falls etc. should all be good options if you want to make a longer drive. Give us a call or swing by for the hot flies and more info, it should be a great stillwater season around here!

Chasing Coastal Chrome

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 01:27:21 +0000

Chasing Coastal Chrome

After taking my first trip to Washington’s Olympic Peninsula 4 years ago, I was quickly enamored by the vast rainforest environment, glacial blue rivers and elusive winter-run steelhead that call these waters home. It’s now become an annual priority to make the long trek West for a chance at encountering some of these incredible fish. When my friends Chris and Bjorn suggested putting this year’s trip together, I didn’t need to think twice.

Upon arriving at our rental and getting settled in, we spent the evening dialing in our floats for the week and rigging everything up. There’s something about the anticipation and prep work that I love almost as much as the fishing itself. I’m pretty sure we had enough gear in the raft to outfit a fly shop, so there were no details being overlooked.

Our first day was a good warm up. A couple of fish hooked and lost, giving us some confidence that there were fish around and we were on the right track. Water conditions were a bit too clear for our liking, so we chose a different river to spend the next few days on to increase our odds. Trying to predict weather and water conditions in a temperate rainforest is no sure bet, but we sure were happy with the decision we made.

Not long into the next day, I had a brief encounter with my first fish. A couple of headshakes and a quick chrome flash before a thrown hook. Opportunities are hard to come by, so I felt a bit dejected. But I got right back to fishing and was quickly rewarded with a hard fighting buck that ended up being my best of the trip. It’s always great having a buddy that will hustle up the bank to net a fish for you as well.

The next few days seemed to go by in a blur. Fish landed and lost, grade A steelhead water seemingly around every corner, and great times spent with friends in one of the coolest places in the state. Oh, and rain, lots of rain. I don’t think I was ever fully dry for about 5 days straight. But that’s the price to pay for a chance at one of these incredible fish.

One of the biggest takeaways I had from this trip was to target non-traditional water. At least 90% of the fish we hooked were in small pockets, boulder gardens or sneaky areas other anglers may have passed up. I love the long, perfect runs as much as anyone else, but exploring the margins made a huge difference for our success. Don’t be afraid to check out the tiny side channel or that swirly bucket everyone else floated past without looking twice.

Enjoy some pics from our adventure!

F3T Fly Fishing Film Tour Feb 29

Sat, 24 Feb 2024 19:11:17 +0000

Fish films and fun

The fishing film tours keep rolling with the F3T returning to Spokane on February 29th at the Bing Theater!

The Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) is the original fly fishing film tour that kicked off the fishing film tour craze.

This year's lineup looks to be a good one with a nice mix of steelhead, trout, and saltwater... a little of something for everyone.

Tickets are ONLY available online or at the door, if available.

For more information / tickets check out the F3T official website: https://flyfilmtour.com/home/us/

Five Friday Fun Facts

Sat, 24 Feb 2024 18:13:26 +0000

All things technical at the SBFS

We are rolling into the weekend with another Fun Facts Friday. This Friday is all about our shop manager @michaelvisintainer. Mike wears many hats at the Silver Bow and for those that know him, you know he’s one fish catching dude as well. Here’s 5 Fun Facts about Mike (aka my brother incase you didn’t know that)

1 - Mike has worked for the Silver Bow since 2008
2 - He has fished in some pretty sweet locations including (but not limited to) Bolivia, Bahamas, Cuba, Mexico
3 - Some of Mike’s roles here include inventory control, accounting, IT / Web and making sure we don’t screw up the computers
4 - He is a self taught photographer and takes some pretty incredible photos
5 - The shop dog Graham is Mike’s 8 year golden retriever

If you see Mike cruising around the shop be sure to say hi! Have a great weekend and enjoy some fishing!

Successful Event for Riverkeeper

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 00:05:48 +0000

Success for the Spokane

A big thank you for those that came out to the annual IF4 and Spokane River Fundraiser supporting the Spokane Riverkeeper.

The event had over 300 in attendance and raised approximately $10,000! All of that goes directly to the Riverkeeper and their efforts to protect and clean the Spokane River.

This year's event had a mix of fishing films from around the globe. It's always interesting to see other's perspectives on where and what they fish for, even if it's something you or I never go do.

Also thanks to those that swung by our table and said hi, it was great to catch up with everyone!

See you at the next film event!

IF4 Event This Friday!

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 18:50:02 +0000

We hope to see you there!

The annual International Fly Fishing Film Festival, IF4 for short, is this Friday February 16th! The Spokane Riverkeeper is hosting the event and the Silver Bow is the primary sponsor.

o help raise funds for the Riverkeeper and their efforts to protect the Spokane River fishery there will be some top notch items to raffle off.

All proceeds from the raffle ticket and show ticket sales go directly to the Spokane Riverkeeper!

Doors will now be open at 5:30pm!! Show at 7:00 pm.

We will have a table down at the event so please come on by and say hi.

Purchase Tickets Online

Date - Friday February 16, 2019

Time - Doors 6:00 PM - Show 7:00 PM

Location - Bing Crosby Theater

Five Friday Fun Facts

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 18:39:09 +0000

Fishing and fun

Happy Friday! We have some more Friday Fun Facts for you. This week I thought I would give you a little info about myself (the person that you are interacting with on our social media). For those that I haven’t met, my name is Sean Visintainer and you could say I’ve done a little fly fishing over the last 30 years...

1 - I started at the Silver Bow in 2002... selling gear and teaching classes.

2 - I was given an opportunity to purchase the Silver Bow in 2005 and have owned it since.

3 - You may not see me on the sales floor much these days but I do a large portion of the ordering, run most of the social media / web content, and make sure the ship is still moving forward.

4 - I guided from 2008 - 2015, mostly on the Spokane and Grande Ronde, but a few trips on the Clark Fork in the early years before I created our Spokane River program.

5 - Aside from fishing you can find me mtn biking, skiing, taking pictures, hiking, and camping with my significant other, friends, and family.

New Orvis Helios

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 23:47:02 +0000

Crazy light, crazy accurate.

The all New 2024 Orvis Helios fly rods has arrived at the Silver Bow! Coming off the highly popular Helios 3, the latest Helios takes it up another notch with improved accuracy, durability, and swing weight.

We first saw these rods last summer and were blown away with how light and accurate they were. They are easily some of the finest rods ever produced with a crisp fast action that is capable of short to long range situations. We received a lineup of 4-10wts at the shop which should cover 98% of most angling situations. If there is a model you want that we don't stock, please let us know and we can order you one up.

Distance and Finesse — A Quiver of Options in Two Series

Choose D for increased line speed and lifting power and F for ultimate sensitivity and delicate presentations with tippet protection.

Come down and test cast one today, we think you will be impressed!

In-stock Rods:

Helios F 9' 4wt 4pc

Helios F 9' 5wt 4pc

Helios D 9' 5wt 4pc

Helios D 9' 5" 5wt 4pc

Helios D 9' 6wt 4pc - Sold Out

Helios D 9' 8wt 4pc

Helios D 9' 9wt 4pc

10 weight Sold Out. More on order!

Your best is now 4x better with unprecedented accuracy and the backbone to deliver when you need it most. Designed and rigorously tested to perform in the most demanding conditions, the all-new HeliosTM fly rod is the go-everywhere, fish-anything option for anglers demanding power and precision. From tight-quarter trout streams to double hauling on salt flats, the versatility is a game-changer. With the world’s most accurate and powerful fly rod in your hands, anything is possible.

Tested and Proven

When compared to Helios 3, the previous industry benchmark for accuracy:

4X more accurate

25% more durable in extreme breakage testing

10% lighter swing weight

Made in USA

Five Friday Fun Facts

Sat, 03 Feb 2024 00:42:07 +0000

Did you know?

Happy Friday! Five Friday Fun Facts for you about the Silver Bow...

1 - Silver Bow opened in 1988 in Spokane, Washington

2 - We strive to carry a variety of quality equipment from the best manufacturers

3 - We have experience fishing around the world… Belize, Bahamas, Cuba, Seychelles, Mexico, Patagonia, Christmas Island, Bolivia, Alaska

4 - The shop is open 7 days a week

5 - We started guiding the Spokane River in 2010

Have a great weekend!

Spokane River Benefit / IF4

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 19:33:10 +0000

Fishing films and Conservation!

The Annual IF4 is back! Hosted by Spokane Riverkeeper and Sponsored by the Silver Bow Fly Shop, join us for a fun evening of fishing films and great raffles prizes!

All proceeds from the raffle and ticket sales go directly to the Spokane Riverkeeper and their efforts to protect our hometown fishery.

This year's event will be back at the Bing Crosby Theater and will feature a great lineup of films that the IF4 crew has assembled. The film contributors to the IF4 have really stepped it up and the quality of films is really top notch.

Purchase Tickets Online

Some of the really awesome raffles for this year’s event which include:

Winston Air2 590-4 Fly Rod!
Spokane River Guided Trip for 2 with Silver Bow Fly Shop
Echo 690 Trout X Fly Rod
Galvan Rush 5 Fly Reel
Outcast Fish Cat 4 Float Tube
Patagonia Waterproof Pack and Duffel
and More!!

All proceeds from the ticket and raffle sales go directly to the Spokane Riverkeeper!

Date - Friday February 16, 2019

Time - Doors 6:00 PM - Show 7:00 PM

Location - Bing Crosby Theater

NF Coeur d'Alene Conditions

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 20:26:49 +0000

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!

South Andros Trip With Bo

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 23:33:00 +0000

Flats, sunshine, and bonefish!

We have availability for 3 more anglers if you are interested!

Bo Brand is headed to warmer, sunnier climates this April in pursuit of bonefish at the South Andros Lodge. If this sounds like your cup of tea I'd highly suggest you give Bo a call and sign up for the trip!

I was lucky enough to check out South Andros last year and it is easily one of the finer bonefish destinations out there. Miles and miles of flats and uncrowded waters. The island of South Andros is sparsely populated and off the radar for most tourists, the perfect combination for those wanting solitude and good fishing. Oh, and I forgot to mention... you can have some shots at MEGA sized bones!

Bonefish are considered one of those perfect pursuits with a fly rod. Feeding in shallow water called "flats", blistering speed, and willingness to eat a WELL placed fly... notice I said "well"... they can be very particular just like an educated trout on a spring creek. That being said, there are situations for any type of angler, a new saltwater angler can get shots at schools of bones, and seasons flats fishers can test their skills on singles or small groups of bones for a harder challenge.

South Andros Lodge is situated on the south eastern side of the island near the Deep Creek Settlement. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations and quick access to the vast array of flats. This should be another great trip so please reach out if you have questions or are interested in joining!

Trip Dates:

April 7th - 14th, 2024

6 Days / 7 Nights

$6350

Included: - Accommodations, meals and beverages including beer, wine and hard alcohol at the lodge, transfers between Congo Town airport and the lodge, all ground transportation on South Andros, fishing license, guided fishing (on a “willing to share” basis unless otherwise noted), limited loaner tackle, Bahamas VAT tax.

Not Included: - All airfare, clothing, staff, and guide gratuities.

Contact Bo Brand at the Silver Bow for more info, 509-924-9998

Intro Fly Tying Classes

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 18:07:00 +0000

Stay warm, tie flies.

We have a few seats available in our upcoming February and March Intro Fly Tying Class with Kenyon Pitts. The class is held here at the Silver Bow Fly Shop and is based on the popular Hareline Materials Kit. The cost of the class includes the $168 materials kit for you to keep! In the kit is a great booklet with step-by-step instructions / photos which Kenyon will run you through covering various trout patterns. Once completed you will have a good idea and foundation of how to apply your skills to many more fly patterns.

Vices and tools provided for use during the class. Class is one night. Students will keep the Hareline Materials Kit.

Our Intro Fly Tying Class is limited to four students so everyone gets plenty of time for help and questions.

Dates Available:

Day Date Time

Wednesday January 3, 2024 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Wednesday February 7, 2024 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - 2 SPOTS

Wednesday March 6, 2024 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - 4 SPOTS Cancelled

Cost - $150.00
Where - Silver Bow Fly Shop - 13210 E Indiana Ste 100
Includes - $168 Hareline Materials Kit to keep, use of vise / tools, 2 hours instruction

Instructor

Kenyon Pitts

Steelhead Fly Tying Class

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 06:40:00 +0000

Steelhead

SOLD OUT

Steelhead flies are some of my favorite patterns to tie. The endless color combinations, large proportions and blank canvas for creativity are just a few of the reasons I find myself spinning these up all winter long. From sparse summer run traditional patterns, to the big, gaudy winter run flies, I enjoy them all.

I will be offering a course on how to tie some of these patterns on January 17th, 2024. This will not be an introduction level class. You should have a good understanding of fly tying fundamentals, along with your own tools/vise. We will have all necessary materials pre-selected and available for purchase, however you are welcome to use your own materials if you have them.

The class will be 2 hours and we will be tying 3 different patterns. The cost for the class is $50, not including materials. A material packet will be available for $25.

Dates Available:

Day Date Time Where Cost

Wednesday January 17, 2024 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Silver Bow Fly Shop $50 not including materials / tools. $25 additional if you would like a materials kit.

SOLD OUT

3 Patterns Covered:

Purple Peril

Reverse Marabou

Snake River Hoh Bo

Materials List Provided at Sign-up.

Required Tools to Bring:

Vise, preferably rotary

Scissors

Bobbin

Bodkin

Whip finish tool

Recommended Tools to Bring:

Dubbing loop spinner

Dubbing loop tweezer

Hackle pliers

Dubbing brush / comb

Dubbing wax

Trout Tying Class

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 05:51:00 +0000

Local knowledge

Like many anglers in our area, I spend most of my fishing season targeting trout. After guiding and fishing the local rivers extensively, I've dialed in a variety of patterns that have improved the catch rates for myself and my clients. Some of these are variations of commonly known patterns, and others I've tweaked and refined specifically for this region.

I'd like to share these tips and techniques with other local anglers, so that they can experience more successful days on the water. If you’re looking to improve your trout fly tying game, this is the class for you.

This is not an introductory level course. You should have a good understanding of fly tying fundamentals prior to enrolling. We will have pre-selected material kits to tie these patterns, which will be available for purchase prior to the class. You are welcome to use your own materials and tools if you already have them.

Over 2 hours, I will be tying 3 of my favorite patterns for the Spokane, St. Joe and NF CDA river systems.

Dates Available:

Day Date Time Where Cost

Friday January 19, 2024 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Silver Bow Fly Shop $50 not including materials / tools. $25 additional if you would like a materials kit.

2 SPOTS LEFT

3 Patterns Covered:

Swing-Strip Sculpin

Spokane River Special

Improved Chubby

Materials List Provided at Sign-up.

Required Tools to Bring:

Vise, preferably rotary

Scissors

Bobbin

Bodkin

Whip finish tool

Recommended Tools to Bring:

Hackle pliers

Dubbing brush / comb

Hair Stacker

Silver Bow Tie Night

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 17:59:00 +0000

Talk fishing, tie flies

There are a couple seats left if you want to bring a vice / materials and tie some flies! Give us a call.

Love to tie flies? Want to get out of the house? Want to talk fishing and tying? Join us for exactly that... Silver Bow Tie Night!

Kenyon and Bo are hosting a free evening at the shop for those interested in kicking some winter blues and tying bugs.

We have limited space in the shop so if you would like a space at the table to tie flies please call the guys and let them know.

if you are not a fly tier, or maybe just want to hangout and talk tying or fishing with other folks you are more than welcome to attend as well! No charge!

Refreshments provided.

This is not a class or presentation, just a social event. Please bring your own vice / tools / materials.

Dates Available:

Day Date Time Cost

Wednesday January 10th, 2024 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Free

Happy New Year

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 21:47:22 +0000

Fish more in 2024

See ya 2023, lots more water to explore in 2024. Thank you for supporting our business last season, we hope we were able to make your time fishing a little more enjoyable.

We have lots of classes and a tying evening coming up so check out the blog / social media if twisting bugs is your thing, or you would like to learn!

The current outlook for fishing in 2024: Fish sooner rather than later. While we still have plenty of time for snowpack to accumulate, the current trend is not looking favorable for healthy rivers this summer so I’d currently suggest making plans for early in the season as July and August might be tough with low water.

New gear will be trickling in over the following months so keep an eye out on social media or the site for the latest and greatest. As always, please see us if you are in need of something special, we can generally order it for you if available and we don’t have it in the store already.

Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 19:28:25 +0000

Thank you for shopping with us.

Happy Holidays from the Silver Bow crew to yours! We appreciate everyone that shopped with us this holiday season. For most small retail businesses, especially seasonal ones like us, the holiday shopping helps give a little financial boost to carry them through to spring when the busy time starts back up.

If you haven't finished up your shopping yet, local businesses are your saving grace to finding those last minute gifts. I know I'm personally guilty of last minute shopping so I fall into this category and appreciate being able to visit local stores.

Enjoy some time with your friends and families (or fish!) and we will see you soon.

- Sean Visintainer

Holiday Store Hours:

12/23 9:00am - 5:00pm
12/24 10:00am - 3:00pm
12/25 CLOSED
1/1 CLOSED

10 Holiday Gift Ideas

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 20:58:57 +0000

Silver Bow has you covered!

If you are like us here at the Silver Bow you probably still haven't finished your holiday shopping yet. There is still plenty of time to find your favorite fly angler a gift and to help get your creative juices flowing we compiled a list of our favorite holiday items this year. Check 'em out below. All items are typically readily available at the Silver Bow, and if these don't get you inspired we have thousands of other items in store that probably do!

1 - Spokane River Guided Trip

This will probably forever be our #1 because it’s the gift of an experience and memories. Float the beautiful Spokane River gorge with one of our seasoned guides for native Redband trout. Good for 2 anglers. $550

2 - Gift Certificate

Good for any merchandise, service, or Washington guided trip at the Silver Bow.

3 - RUX 70L Gear Bag

These gear bags make for the ultimate wader/boot bag! Keep your wet, grimy gear separate from other items in your rig. These bags have a unique wall structure that is both rigid, yet collapsable for when you aren’t carrying everything and the kitchen sink. $299

4 - A Fly Box of Silver Bow Favorites

This popular gift idea is another one of those gifts that keeps on giving. We can hand select an assortment of our favorite patterns for any location that you would like. Prices vary from as little as $20 to as much as you would like to spend.

5 - Fishpond Canyon Net

The new Canyon Net from Fishpond might be one of the best all-around trout walk/wade sized nets on the market! Super light carbon fiber design, a great overall size for trout, and a rubber ghost net. $149.95

Cling Isotech Trico Aluminum Net

Another awesome net from a relatively new company. Featuring an all aluminum machined handle, aluminum frame, and rubber bag. A really unique feature is a magnet placed at the top of the handle to keep your flies out of the way while you release your catch. $200

7 - A New Fly Rod

Who doesn’t want more fly rods? No fly angler will be disappointed with another stick this holiday season. There is always an excuse for another piece to the quiver… a small stream rod, a faster action rod, a softer action dry fly rod, a saltwater rod… the list of “reasons” is long! We can help pick the right one! Prices vary from sub $200 - $1000+

8 - Fly Tying Kit with Class!

Give the gift of another hobby! Sign your favorite angler up for our Intro Fly Tying Class which INCLUDES a Hareline Materials Kit so not only do they get the excitement of the class to look forward to, they have some under the tree to unwrap! $150 (Includes $168 Hareline Materials Kit)

9 - Fresh Fly Line

This one is like golf balls to a golfer… or ammo to a hunter. Fly lines wear out plane and simple. A quality fly line is a great gift that just makes the fishing experience that much more enjoyable. We can help select the right one. Quality fly line prices range from $99-130

10 - Sea Run Cases Riffle QR Daily Case (SALE!)

Sea Run builds the finest rigid cases on the market! Whether you are just hitting the St. Joe or traveling across the world, Sea Run Cases are built to last and keep your gear organized. Not your average case! On Sale for a limited time $377.10 Reg $419

Steelhead Scenes

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 01:10:40 +0000

Swing flies, be happy

The guys have been enjoying some days down south in steelhead land now that the guide season is pretty much wrapped up.

Both Kenyon and Jesse reported great fishing last week, and tougher fishing this week though they still managed some fish.

The Grande Ronde is seeing ice now that temps are pretty frigid. If it doesn't get too solid, hopefully next week's warmer weather and rain will melt what has formed.

The Snake River is still remaining an option, though it is fairly cold as well and could have some ice along it.

Enjoy a few pics from their recent adventures!

Pics by Kenyon Pitts and Jesse Retan

Thank You - Closed Black Friday

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 20:41:07 +0000

Happy Thanksgiving

CLOSED BLACK FRIDAY

Fishing season has wound down for most anglers as we roll into late fall. I don’t blame folks, it’s a lot harder to get motivated when the windows are short, temps are cold, and the fish not as cooperative. That’s alright though, these next few months are a good time to get recharged and make plans for the upcoming season.

Like the fishing season, the fishing business as you can imagine is also in it’s normal slow season. We get a little bump from the holidays and then hunker down until the spring again. This time of the year we can reflect on the past fishing season, business, and make sure everything is in order for 2024.

The past few years have been a whirlwind for anyone in the outdoor industry and 2023 settled back down to the pre-covid days with more normalcy and steady business. Inventory is A LOT easier to come by these days too!

We owe a big thank you for those that helped support our business, whether you made a purchase, liked a social media post, or referred our business to a friend. It all helps keep the machine moving and we truly appreciate it!

This holiday season remember, when you shop with the Silver Bow you are supporting a local business. A local business that also supports local organizations, other small businesses, and supports local river conservation. Your hard earned money spent at the Silver Bow stays in the local economy.

Have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving from our crew to yours, thank you!

Intro Fly Tying Dates

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 21:34:48 +0000

Help the winter blues with fly tying.

We are getting our Intro Fly Tying courses rolling again for the winter season!

Like the last couple of years, we will be offering a 2 hour class that includes an entry-level fly tying kit from Hareline Products (a $168.00 value) that you will get to take home at the end of the day!

While this class is geared towards beginner tiers, there will be plenty of tips and tricks that even a seasoned fly tyer could learn a lot from.

We will focus on trout patterns for the Spokane region, but these techniques can be applied to all styles of fly tying down the road.

This will be an excellent opportunity to learn from Kenyon about some of his favorite fly patterns and how to tie them!

Give the shop a call or stop in to get on the calendar, as these dates will go quickly! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Dates Available:

Day Date Time

Wednesday December 6, 2023 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Wednesday January 3, 2024 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Wednesday February 7, 2024 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Wednesday March 6, 2024 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm Cancelled

Cost - $150.00
Where - Silver Bow Fly Shop - 13210 E Indiana Ste 100
Includes - $168 Hareline Materials Kit to keep, use of vise / tools, 2 hours instruction

Instructor

Kenyon Pitts

Riverkeeper Spoken River Event

Sat, 04 Nov 2023 00:22:44 +0000

Celebrate your hometown river.

The annual Spoken River Event benefiting the Spokane Riverkeeper's efforts is coming up on November 16th 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm at the Montvale Event Center.

The Spoken River celebrates stories of the river and the parallels to the flow of our own lives. Creating new channels and carving paths toward the future; the river is guide, muse, and inspiration to many.

Join the Spokane Riverkeeper crew and other Spokane River advocates for a fun night of conservation and river stories.

More Info Here: - https://event.gives/spokenriver2023

Soft Hackles in the Fall

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 23:40:28 +0000

Fun, simple fly fishing

Winter weather is getting nearer, but fall hasn't made a full exit yet. We still have plenty of fall color, a few hatching insects, and decent weather in the forecast.

Good fishing still exists on rivers like the Spokane River and maybe just as much on the lower stretches of the NF Coeur d'Alene, St. Joe, and Clark Fork Rivers.

On the local river hatches of fall caddis, bwo's, and midges will still have fish looking up and fishing classic tactics / patterns like soft hackles can pay off dividends for picky late season risers.

This simple tactic can be done most of the year but it really excels in situations where trout are keyed in on aquatic insect emergences.

Also, if you have trouble seeing small fly patterns like bwo's on the surface fishing a tight line to a soft hackle can keep you in the game for rising trout by fishing a wet fly pattern just below the film. You may not get the visual of a trout sipping your dead drift fly off the surface but you get to see the boil just below and the feel of the grab, which is double the fun!

Check out the video below we made a number of years ago for some good, foundational information to get started fishing with soft hackles.

Fall Fly Fishing

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 18:56:45 +0000

Fantastic Fall Fishing

Fall is off to a fantastic start with beautiful weather and great fishing. Easily a favorite season for most anglers, fall means less crowded waters, insect hatches, and consistent fishing.

It's an angler's choice right now where to fish... North Idaho cutthroat streams? Spokane River? Montana? Steelhead?? Lakes? The choice is yours.

Everything is fishing right now. Literally EVERYTHING.

If that doesn't work for you, how about some pretty fall colors to add in the mix?

Have a great weekend!

Closed October 2nd - 4th

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 18:13:06 +0000

Sorry for the inconvenience!

CLOSED 10/2 - 10/4

We are migrating our computer systems to a new management / point-of-sale software and will now be closed 10/2-10/4.

GIFT CARDS - Gift Cards will be temporarily unavailable for purchase or use until we integrate them into the new system. We currently foresee this aspect of the project taking approximately 1-2 weeks.

Thank you for your patience and understanding while our IT department (aka Mike) tackles this migration.

- Sean Visintainer

Steel on the Brain

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 22:27:08 +0000

Steel on the Brain

Fall is the time of year where it seems like anywhere you go; the fishing is good and only getting better. Lots of anglers are out and about on the trout streams, taking advantage of the cooler weather and consistent bug hatches. I’ve been guiding on the Spokane and like everywhere else, the fishing has been stellar.

Last week, I got the steelhead itch, dusted off the spey rods and headed down to the Clearwater. The preseason forecast for steelhead returns this year was pretty grim, but after watching the Bonneville counts and early Lower Granite returns, numbers were looking better than originally projected. This isn’t going to be a banner year by any means, but I think we can all agree that a little hope in the anadromous fish world is a good thing.

After working out the kinks casting the big rods for the first time this year, I stuck a nice steelhead that hung on long enough to get a great look at it before throwing the hook right at my feet. I fished the rest of the day with no other grabs, but felt fortunate to have an encounter this early in the season. I took a drive up the Snake that night and fished around Hellar Bar the next morning, but water temps were a bit on the warm side.

Hoping for one more opportunity, I ventured back up the Clearwater to swing a couple runs before heading back to Spokane. My fish karma must have been ready to cash in, because I was lucky enough to bring a hard fighting chromer to hand and finish off the trip on a high note. Since I’ve been down, the Lower Granite numbers have perked up and we are hearing of a few fish being caught on all the major rivers. I’d say its time to scratch that itch!

Kenyon

Spokane River Cleanup Sept 16

Sat, 09 Sep 2023 00:39:37 +0000

Don't like trashy river banks? Sign up!

The annual Spokane River Cleanup and Spokane Valley Upriver Scrub are coming up soon on September 16th. These are really fun events and a way to give back to the community.

Spokane River Cleanup (middle and lower river stretches that run right through town)

Saturday, September 16, 2023
8:00 am 2:00 pm
Details here - https://landscouncil.org/events/spokane-river-clean-up

Spokane Valley Upriver Scrub (Valley locations up to Idaho Stateline)

Saturday, September 16, 2023
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Details Here - https://spokaneriver.net/events/cleanup-volunteer/get-up-get-out-for-spokane-river-clean-up/public-cleanup-registration/

Closed Labor Day

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 20:05:38 +0000

Fishing holiday

We will be closed on Monday 9/4 Labor Day.

Regular hours on the weekend and after Monday.

Have a great weekend and hopefully you find yourself on the water with a fly rod!

We appreciate your business!

Labor Day Fishing Forecast

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 23:20:37 +0000

Summer is winding down, but not the fishing!

The shop will be closed Monday September 4th for Labor Day

As usual, summer has been flying by. I thought we might skate by without much of a fire season, but the recent local fires were certainly devastating and heartbreaking to see. We hope from here on out this cooler / wetter weather helps minimize anymore fire potential. The past month since our last update has been a hot and dry one like we typically see here and now with the shift towards more comfortable temps the fish and rivers will be prime for late summer action.

My top three choices for the next few weeks are the Spokane River, St. Joe, and NF Clearwater (Kelly Creek). Really though the Kootenai and Clark Fork should be on the radar too. The Kootenai fishes so well in the late summer heat, potentially better than anywhere else in the west in my opinion. While the fish tend to be “cookie-cutters” they are fun, full of energy, and love dry flies.

The guide crew has had a pretty consistent August on the Spokane River. Even on the hottest of days an early start, and early finish, proved to be productive. Jake, Kenyon, Jesse, Bjorn, and Randy all had positive things to say about the fishing. With the change in temps now and slightly longer nights some of the bigger fish are beginning to come out and play again.

Hatches this time of the year on the rivers are sparse. You can see a couple pmd’s, caddis, or a random stonefly like a golden or yellow sally, the most prevalent insects tend to be terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles). Aside from the terrestrials and small chubby chernobyls I’d pack some jig tungsten droppers (perdigons, spanish bullets, caddis pupa) to run under your foam dries and small parachute or midge types for picky risers in calm water. A spinner pattern can be the ticket too.

Steelheaders have been hitting the Clearwater River in Idaho. It’s not epic, but some fish have been swung and we are hopeful that the Snake and Ronde will have a few fish later in September too.

We appreciate your business this summer and look forward to helping you have a great rest of the season!

Montana's Missouri River at sunset. Photo Credit - Sam McGhee

Summer Clock

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 19:01:14 +0000

Summer is still here, but not for long...

The dog-days of summer are winding down and fall is right around the corner with cooler temps already starting to be seen in the forecast. This past weekend was a buzzkill with the fires and hopefully now we are on the backside of wildfire season.

The upcoming forecast is looking more promising though and we are excited for the next couple of months as we inch closer to the shoulder season of fall.

Steelhead has been on the radar of a few folks and some fish have been caught on the Clearwater River system in Idaho already. It's a bit early for the Snake / Grande Ronde, give those fisheries another month. Fish counts aren't exactly booming, but there should be a few fish to potentially tangle into for those still passionate about anadromous pursuits. If you need a little spey casting tune-up call Bo Brand to get scheduled for a refresher.

As the nights get longer and the weather becomes a little more mild we highly recommend finding time to hit the water. Come see us for any bugs or supplies before you hit the water.

The clock is ticking...

Regional Fires

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 16:56:40 +0000

Thank you firefighters, first responders, and volunteers.

What a devastating past few days around the region with fires in the nearby communities of Medical Lake, Elk, and beyond. The fires, smoke, and destruction has been heartbreaking.

Thank you to the firefighters and first responders that have been on scene helping to combat the fires.

Hopefully this week brings some relief, clearer skies, and an opportunity for those that suffered loss to rebuild.

3 Tips for Your Next Guided Trip

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 23:13:14 +0000

Learn, have fun, and enjoy the day!

For the past seven years Kenyon Pitts has been guiding guests down the Spokane River and Grande Ronde Rivers for trout, steelhead, and smallmouth bass. Over the course of those seasons Kenyon has seen just about all scenarios of weather, water, and of course... personalities of people! Here are a few tips that Kenyon put together to help make your trip successful.

Trust your Guide! - Whether you’ve been angling for the last 30 years, or are just getting into fly fishing, your guide spends countless hours on the body of water you are fishing. They are a wealth of information and often see the river through a different lens, which can give a new perspective on how you read water and present your flies. Being open to trying new techniques and using this knowledge can be the difference between a fair and great day of fishing.

Ask Questions - Whether it’s about how the flies are being rigged, casting angles or the types of water you’re fishing, asking questions about what you’d like to learn helps you and your guide have a more productive day. It’s not always about how many fish you put in the net!

Come Prepared - Our guided trips are all inclusive, which means equipment, snacks, and necessary odds and ends are provided for you. However, there are some things that can make your day more enjoyable and easier going. Showing up on time, purchasing a fishing license prior to your trip, bringing your own rain gear and a pair of sunglasses are a few good ways to make sure you’re dialed in for a day on the water. Even if your guide has a spare raincoat and sunglasses, having your own gear that fits properly can make a huge difference.

Summer Mode Top 10 Tips

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 22:29:59 +0000

Opportunities are still there.

It's full blown summer mode everywhere right now. Hoot-owl regs are going into effect on many Montana waters and the best fishing on many waterways is in the first half of the day. While late July through early September may not be as good of fishing as spring or fall, there are still plenty of chances to catch fish, it just takes a little tweak to your schedule or where you plan on fishing. It's a great time of the year too to hit some lesser known waters and do some exploring.

Our top 10 tips for successful summertime fishing...

Water temps are coolest in the mornings, this also means fishing is generally best in the first half of the day.

Some rivers like the Kootenai and Spokane River do remain cold enough to fish in the evenings.

If water temps are above 68 degrees please call it a day and enjoy a cold drink, give the trout a break.

High alpine and backcountry waters are great this time of the year.

Terrestrials are the go-to from now until fall.

Small attractors are great this time of the year. Toss in some caddis as well.

Riffles, deep slots, undercuts, drop offs, mid river buckets and boulder gardens are the name of the game for location.

Longer / lighter leaders and tippet can improve catch rates.

While chubbies or hopper / droppers can and are great to fish still, fishing small dries (parachutes, midges, etc) can be deadly, same goes with your dropper patterns.

Try bass or carp fishing for something different. Grande Ronde, Snake River, Banks Lake, the Spokane R. near stateline / Idaho for smallies, long lake, etc. The list is very long for warmwater species around here.

Early Starts

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 21:12:06 +0000

Early bird catches the trout

We've reached that time of the season where how early you get out of bed will dictate your catch success rates. Consistent daytime temps in the 90's and night temps in the 60's makes for tough conditions on most trout streams.

Morning water temps are always the best after a night of cooling off so maximizing your day on the water with an early start is often the key to success.

Remember, while evening time can be good fishing, check water temps. The rivers and lakes have been heating up all day so they are at their peak temps in the evening.

Once temps start getting in the 68-70 degree range time to wrap it up for the day and enjoy a cool drink.

Fly Rod Repair Field Hack

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 00:26:41 +0000

Rod Repair Field Hack

I was fishing over in Yellowstone National Park last week for the 4th and while parked a young angler came over to our rig to ask if we had some duct tape that he could use to repair his broken fly rod.

While I didn't have duct tape, I did have some waterproof Gorilla Tape in my tool kit, but as I was contemplating on how to best use the tape for the repai, my significant other Jen chimed in and said, "Why don't you use zip ties?" I paused and thought about it, it was brilliant

It just so happened that I had a handful of zip ties that I keep in the tool kit as well, they are perfect for lashing items to packs, broken straps, and whatever else may come loose on/in your vehicle.

My first thought was to overlap the two broken sections and wrap the zip tie around multiple times, then cinch up. But as I was doing that it made a lot more sense to just overlap the sections and affix 3-4 zip ties in the regular way they are designed for.

I asked the young angler to report back to me on how it worked, after fishing some streamers for the day with it he was happy to report that he held up!

While this repair won't work all the time, or in all sections depending on the type of break, it could help salvage the day and keep you on the water.

Note: I just had one size zip tie, but it would probably be beneficial to have some other sizes for other sections.

Hope that helps if you ever find yourself in that situation where you may need a quick fix in the field.

Photo Credit Matt Hubble

Happy 4th of July

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 20:39:24 +0000

Enjoy the extended weekend!

Happy 4th of July from all of us at the Silver Bow Fly Shop in Spokane.

We will be open July 4th 9:30 to 2:00

NF Clearwater / Kelly Creek Report

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 23:58:48 +0000

Dry flies, cutthroat, and canyons.

Mike and I took a drive over to the North Fork of the Clearwater River drainage yesterday to see how the season is shaping up. As expected based on the low flows, the fish have been doing well and fishing was pretty good to say the least.

Everyone's biggest question this time of the year is... "Is the pass open?" Yes, the pass is open and has been. Snowpack melted quickly this year. Road conditions are fine and no major landslides. The only complaint is there are a lot of potholes and traveling with big trailers is not advised by the forest service. A small, more nimble trailer is fine. Hidden Creek Campground had a work crew in there so the campground is closed until 6/30, plenty of other options though for those spending the night.

Yesterday's stormy afternoon weather put an early damper on the hatches, but there were some good PMD hatches prior and in between storms. Golden stones, yellow sallies, and caddis are also out. Throwing a chubby or stone will catch you plenty of fish currently. Add a dropper if you want to catch more. Matching the hatch of course can be fun if you want to play that game. We did streamer fish a little, which wasn't productive and Mike did try euro which was also slow.

No big cutthroat to report or gloat about, but tons and tons of small-mid sized fish all day long. Of course the scenery never sucks here either.

We didn't make it all the way down to Kelly Creek due to a large thunder / rain storm late in the afternoon shutting the fishing down so we just headed back. We did make it as far as Pete Ott Creek and my educated guess is that Kelly Creek is fishing about the same... cuz it usually is.

Summer is Here

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 23:10:57 +0000

Long days, tight lines

Some Thursday inspiration for you... it's officially summertime. Long days, pleasant temps, good fishing. No complaints anywhere. I guess if I had one it would be that I would have liked runoff to last a bit longer. Snowpack melted quickly and river levels are below average. They aren't like 2015 low kinda levels, but let's hope cool temps and some rain continue throughout the summer.

Fishing has overall been nothing short of great as conditions this June have been pretty much ideal. If you remember last June most of our region had crazy high water, in particular the Spokane, so fishing options were more limited.

Hatches this time of the year can vary... pmd's (pale morning dun mayflies) are a staple, yellow sallies, caddis, drakes (mostly green drakes these days now), and golden stones. The cooler, cloudy days will be more suited for mayflies and warmer weather the caddis and stones... though there are other variables there that can dictate that.

No direct fishing reports from the North Fork of the Clearwater and Kelly Creek, but Bo did confirm Hoodoo Pass is open, though conditions are a little rough. Hidden Creek Campground and Cedars Campground are not currently open and trailers are not recommended in the Black Canyon.

While the main fisheries like the Spokane River, NF Coeur d'Alene River, and St. Joe Rivers have been fishable for awhile now, other popular fisheries like the Clark Fork have taken a little longer to come into play. The C.Fork is now a viable option along with the Kootenai River which has been fishing well.

Summer is here, the shop is stocked and ready, we hope to see you on water or in the store. We appreciate your purchases, they help keep these reports going!

Winston / Bauer 20% Off Sale

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 18:45:18 +0000

THIS SALE IS OVER!

Father's Day Sale

If you know me, or the shop, then you know we have been long time fans of Winston Fly Rods and Bauer Reels. We have been selling Winston and Bauers for over three decades so you can say we have been on the green team for a while now.

To celebrate Father's Day Winston is authorizing us to pass along a 20% savings on all Winston rods and Bauer reels. We have a variety of rods and reels in-stock so check out the site or swing on in!

The 20% off Winston Rods / Bauer Reels runs from 6/12/23 - 6/21/23.

Don't miss this rare opportunity!

Spokane River Guided Trips

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 23:42:03 +0000

Hometown hero

Our hometown fishery has been open since May 27th and fishing good right out of the gate. While the snowpack was good, the heat and rain we have had this spring wiped out the snowpack quickly so runoff was short-lived and water levels dropped fast. No it's not July levels, but it's been very fishable.

The whole crew here has been out on the water whether guiding or personal fishing. Everyone has reported good catch rates and healthy looking fish. I was able to get out with Bo and Randy (Welcome Back Randy Blog) last weekend for an evening float. The caddis hatch was one of the better ones I've seen in awhile and fish were feeding on pupa as well as emergers. At times though the hatch was so thick and busy that it would give you vertigo while drifting along trying to focus through the insect clouds on your patterns.

t is tough to predict how July and August will look on our local waters, luckily the Spokane is aquifer fed and will stay cold all summer long.

If you are interested in getting out on the water with us give us a call 509-924-9998 to book a trip. If you are more of DIY angler we are happy to help as well, swing on in and we can

Welcome Back Randy Dingman

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 23:13:53 +0000

Rowing with Randy

We are stoked to have Randy Dingman back on the Spokane River Guide Trip Team roster. Randy guided for us many seasons ago and after an eight year break from the fly fishing guiding to pursue guiding on Lake Coeur d'Alene and other career endeavors he is back in the saddle on the Spokane River this season.

Last summer Randy returned for some cutthroat guiding with our Idaho outfitting partner ROW Adventures and we were able to rotate Randy back in the schedule for our North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River and St. Joe River trips.

Randy infectious enthusiasm is a joy to be around and the energy level stays high all day long is his boat. We hope you are fortunate to spend a day in the boat with Randy (aka Uncle D), you certainly will have a great time!

St. Joe Post Memorial Day

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 16:58:57 +0000

Cutthroat nirvana is coming into shape

After a trip to the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River last week I made a quick pit stop over to the St. Joe River on Saturday to see how things were shaping up.

Jen and I drove in from Moon Pass via Wallace and headed upriver to Spruce Tree first. The upper river at Saturday's river levels was pretty limited as expected, but we just wanted to check it out. Aside from the river being full and swift it was running nice and clear. Now that flows have dropped considerably I would absolutely go back. Note that flows are now below average here too so take advantage of some earlier fishing opportunities while we got 'em.

We did fish a spot above Avery and did very well for typical sized cutts. They were pretty eager for a golden chubby or something similar.

As we headed down river and the river spreads wider, more opportunities opened up and as you approach Marble Creek and the entire lower river drainage there were tons of opportunities to find fishable water on foot, and especially if you were floating. The fishing down low was also very good, same thing, a chubby got it done, but a pmd, drake, or purple haze type of pattern was very productive especially later in the day.

I received a note from our guide Bill Johnson who was over on the St. Joe Monday, he echoed the same thing... big fish, lots of them. Chubby with a pheasant tail or caddis pupa dropper, small purple haze in the afternoon.

It's GO-TIME folks! If you want to get out on the water with Bill or Randy give us a call and we will get you on the schedule.

NF Coeur d'Alene Post Memorial Day

Tue, 30 May 2023 20:15:12 +0000

Ready for fun

The big holiday has come and gone and now the "main" fishing season is upon us. Memorial Day weekend kicks off the trout stream fishing for many with rivers like North Fork Coeur d'Alene, St. Joe River, and Spokane all being fishable this year right outta the gate.

Like we predicted last week, those three rivers fished about like we expected. I was able to fish the upper North Fork Coeur d'Alene River and the St. Joe River over the past week/weekend. Mike and Bo were able to get up the NF CDA as well last week. Both locations were good and all of our fishing reports lined up with each other.

Classic May fishing on the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River consisted of cutties looking for a chubby, golden stone, or salmonfly. Adding a dropper (perdigon, tungsten pt, frenchie, etc) two feet below racked up the fish count considerably. While hatches weren't hot and heavy, they rarely are here, we did see a mix of goldens and salmonflies (salmonflies were pretty far up the drainage), while yellow sallies, pmds, and drakes made up the smaller assortment. Prospecting with a stone/dropper was the way I prefer to fish until I find a consistent fish up feeding and then I would switch to a smaller pattern like a pmd to pick 'em off.

Bo and Mike reported similar fishing. They did toss some euro rigs as well and of course that racked up more numbers.

Later in the evening PMD spinners brought fish up consistently for some evening head hunting.

Angling pressure was about as expected, people were out, main areas were fished already by midday, but the more creative you are the more un-fished water you could have.

Oh... and let me reiterate... THE NORTH FORK OF THE COEUR D'ALENE RIVER WATER LEVELS ARE NOT TOO HIGH... IT IS ACTUALLY VERY BELOW AVERAGE FLOWS FOR RIGHT NOW.

Happy fishing!

Memorial Weekend Stream Forecast

Mon, 22 May 2023 21:49:58 +0000

Tis the season

For many anglers Memorial Weekend kicks off their fishing "season" with rivers like the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene, St. Joe, and Spokane as their main haunts if you live in our area. One could also throw the Kootenai and Clark Fork into that mix, but really it's the first three rivers listed that get the most attention. Of course there are smaller streams and tribs... but we aren't about to hotspot those on a public blog like this :)

The Spokane River opens this Saturday May 27th this year after being closed for spawning since March 15th. While we would love to get out on the river the last couple months it's for the best that it's closed to help protect the native Redbands and realistically the river is typically very high during this time period. The prediction flows are showing the levels dropping to a point where it will be "high-but-fishable" for opening weekend. Do exercise extreme caution if you get out, the river is no joke at this level, and really at any level it's a dangerous river to wade. I would expect a few salmonflies to be buzzing around and probably some trout willing to eat them and there will absolutely be caddis hatches in the afternoon and evenings. Big chernobyls, chernobyl/dropper combos, nymph rigs (a stone and caddis pupa), or streamer fishing will all be on the menu.

Probably the number one draft choice for many anglers this time of the season will be the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River. Being the first river to drop into shape after runoff and it's close proximity to Spokane and Coeur d'Alene, this makes it an easy target for anxious anglers wanting to get out. I will say that Memorial Day weekend is busier with campers rather than anglers, but there will be folks around for sure as they have for decades on this popular holiday weekend locale. Hatches here will be all over the place, depending on how high in the drainage you are. You could potentially see... caddis, yellow sallies, drake mayflies, salmonflies, and golden stone and pmd's really should be happening for Memorial Day weekend now too. How high can you go? Anywhere you want.

Dragging it's feet as usual the St. Joe River is a large drainage and takes it a little longer to go through it's snowpack so it'll be on the higher side of fishable for Memorial Weekend. The river is predicted to drop so don't overlook it. These panhandle streams with cutthroat fish well at higher levels and as always look for the banks to focus your efforts as the fish will generally be found in the eddies, side channels, backwater areas, inside bends, or soft sides of seams created by a point in the riverbank. The St. Joe should also have a mix of hatches like the NF Coeur d'Alene River. You could expect to see salmonflies, caddis, drakes, yellow sallies, and probably PMD's. And yes you drive up Red Ives if you so desire.

With runoff still rolling along in many areas the Kootenai and Clark Fork will not be options this Memorial Day weekend, and that is okay, if they were that means we would be outta water this summer!

We hope you have a fun and fish-filled Memorial Day Weekend! We are stocked and ready for all your fly angling needs so please see us before heading out. We appreciate your business.

Rapid Runoff on the CDA

Mon, 15 May 2023 21:32:07 +0000

Go time

Like usual the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River blew through its snowpack pretty quick. Not having a lot of high elevation peaks, the snowpack melts off relatively easily on this drainage.

Spring shaped up pretty quickly here and Mike, Bo, and our guide Bill have all been out on the water. Water levels are below average for May, but are not your summertime levels so don't plan on wading across the river or anything like that.

A variety of hatches have been going on depending on the stretch. You can see salmonflies, yellow sallies, caddis, drakes and even some of the late winter insects like capnia and nemoura stones are still around.

Enjoy a few pics from Mike on his recent adventure up on the river.

NF CDA - Improving Conditions

Mon, 08 May 2023 23:04:25 +0000

Improving daily.

Big improvements since last week over on the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River and St. Joe Rivers. Runoff hit hard and fast and while it's not over still it appears that a bulk of the snow has already came off.

Mike took a drive up the NF Coeur d'Alene River on Sunday and said conditions were definitely improving. The river color was more green and levels dropping nicely. The whole river system is still very full of water and fishing spots are super limited if not non-existent. Do exercise extreme caution and remember the fish are generally along the banks, eddies, side channels, and backwater areas where they can get some relief from heavier flows. So no real need to wade into the river.

The million dollar question has been answered... how high can you go?! Pretty much wherever you want. Mike drove up to mile 49 where the NF CDA splits off and heads to Jordan Creek, and noted you can go further no problem. There is still some snow but it should melt off this week. The high elevation peaks still are carrying snow and I would suspect Fernan Saddle is probably not passable yet as it is not passable most years until it's closer to Memorial Day weekend.

No direct reports from the St. Joe River, but levels indicate quite a bit of improvement, though there will probably be some pushes of runoff here still since this area typically has more snowpack and is a larger drainage.

Monday's with Mike

Mon, 01 May 2023 22:28:09 +0000

Shoulda fished it last week...

Mike has been finding some freetime from shop life and home projects and hit the local rivers before the latest heatwave. Last week up on the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River the water levels were still fishable, clarity good and snow lined some of the banks. This week not so much. Chocolate colored waters and levels so high they are reaching flood stages now on the graphs.

Last week too, the furthest you could drive up was the Shoshone Work Center... answering the age-old spring question at the fly shop... "how high can I go?". Honestly, I find that question kinda silly during the early parts of spring. If you know the lay of the land up on the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene drainage, you know the river is in relatively mountainous terrain which means that while it can be fairly nice down here in the valley but that doesn't mean the mountains have thawed out yet. I do understand the appeal of fishing the upper North Fork Coeur d'Alene River drainage, it's an incredible place, I have fished there for almost the last 30 years, however, it's the same thing every year... it's still WINTER LIKE in the mountains every February, March, and most of April! EVERY YEAR! LOL! So I wouldn't even consider fishing the upper reaches until some point in May, even then it can be a different climate back there than it is here in Spokane. Rant over.

Both the North Fork and the St. Joe Rivers were fishing very well last week even as the rivers rose. Unlike some other fisheries, let's say the Clark Fork or Missouri Rivers, the Idaho cutties don't slow down too much when river levels are on the way up. Keep a mental note of that for next season and remember to not completely throw in the towel just because levels are going up a bit on the USGS graphs.

Thanks Mike for the pics and thanks for volunteering at the willow planting on the upper Hangman Creek watershed recently with the Spokane Falls Trout Unlimited and Coeur d'Alene Tribe Fish and Wildlife. Maybe one day we will see these once prolific salmon spawning grounds rehabilitated and restored.

Spring Scenes

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 22:38:58 +0000

Opportunities are knocking

It's really starting to feel like spring finally around these parts. There has been a great window of opportunity on the local rivers (aside from the Spokane River, it's closed until 5/27). That being said the warmer weather will cause some runoff to occur with both overnight and daytime temps well above freezing.

We have been on the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River, St. Joe River, Clark Fork River and beyond as of late and all produced some level of results not to mention some decent dry fly activity. Hopefully cooler weather can keep the river flows in check so we can continue to get out on moving water.

Enjoy some spring scenes from myself and the crew here at the Silver Bow!

Belize with Bo Wrap-Up

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 19:24:32 +0000

Bo, Belize, and Bones!

I recently returned from my third hosted trip to Turneffe Flats Lodge, Belize. This year there were fourteen Spokanites in the group, including myself, traveling out of the cold to sunny Belize. The group included ten fishermen, and four wives who went diving, snorkeling, or spent the day relaxing by the pool in the sun.

The weather was good most days with some stiff winds, high clouds, and a little rain, nothing we all couldn't fish through it just made seeing fish a little difficult at times. Bonefish were plentiful but very, very spooky! Everyone in the group tangled into bonefish throughout the week. The crew enjoyed the stalking aspect of chasing singles and pairs of bonefish, some fish landed were upwards of eight pounds!

Permit shots were available most mornings through early afternoon and as usual the permit were super fickle as they are ninety nine percent of the time. The high clouds and winds didn't help seeing the fish at distance either.

Tarpon made a quick appearance most days, rolling in channels, or busting bait with the birds. One minute they were there, and then they were gone. Some very nice tarpon were hooked and lost by guest. Despite the sad losses on tarpon lands, the epic tarpon battles got folks excited for more tarpon trips in the future.

After six days of fishing we sadly left Turneffe atoll for Belize City to spend the day on a Mayan ruin tour followed by cave tubing. A relaxing end to a week of fishing hard.

Thanks to everyone who joined me on this trip, I had a great time with everyone. Thanks to Turneffe Flats Lodge and all the staff, you never disappoint.

Snowpack Report - April Update

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 23:28:17 +0000

Snowpack is looking good

Late winter and early spring precipitation has helped out the snowpack across the WA / ID / MT region. Overall things are looking good for most watersheds. Our main rivers that most regional anglers fish... NF Coeur d'Alene River, St. Joe River, Spokane River, and Clark Fork River are all in good shape. The Kootenai River would be the one that stands out with the least amount of snowpack.

The big questions are, how fast will it warm up this spring and will we get any more precipitation over the summer? If spring temps warm up considerably, in particular the night time temps, well then runoff will come off quickly and the snowpack will dwindle fast. Fingers crossed the overnight temps stay colder and keep the spring melt in check.

While we may be knocking on runoff's door, there are generally windows of opportunity to fish the rivers between bumps in flows. Just keep an eye on our fishing reports page, it's updated weekly!

Here's the latest snotel reports:

Early Season Stillwater

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 00:47:01 +0000

Local fun

While lakes aren't the first option on many angler's lists around here, they provide some great early season fishing opportunities when our local rivers are either closed or not quite in shape. We have some great options close to home that hold some exceptional fish, in both size and fight. Frankly, some of the largest trout I've caught in this region have come from the lakes right around Spokane. A few well known early opener options like Amber, Medical and Coffeepot are great starting points, but there are other places worth exploring, especially once the General Lake Opener occurs which is on April 29th this year.

I've been heading out to Amber and Medical lake most recently, and some other anglers have been out to Coffeepot lake as well. As can be typical of the early season, fishing has been hot and cold. I've been finding them on a variety of patterns, such as balanced leeches, blob flies and larger chironomids hung underneath an indicator or slowly stripped on a sinking line. One thing that seems to make a big difference is adjusting depth regularly until a consistent bite is found. These early season fish seem to hang in pods and once you find one, there's usually a few more around.

This is a great time of year to try out lake fishing if you haven't already! Give us a call or swing by the shop if you have any questions. We'll set you up with the hot flies and get you out chasing some stillwater slabs!

Kenyon

MT Fishing Film Tour Tonight

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 07:56:00 +0000

Catch the Vibe!

TONIGHT!

We are stoked to keep the fly fishing films rolling this spring with the return of the MT Fishing FILM Festival to Spokane this April 5th at the The Garland Theater

The MT Fishing Film festival is celebrating a decade of homegrown, relatable fish films and this year's great lineup features our hometown fishery the Spokane River with friend Heather Hodson - Northwest Fly Girl.

If you are into local fisheries, places, and good people this is your film tour to attend!

Tickets on sale now, catch the vibe!

Buy Tickets
MT Fishing Film Festival Website

Early Season River Tactics

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 20:32:25 +0000

Early spring success

I believe the calendar now says it's spring, but it sure doesn't feel like it lately for early April. The fishing season may be lagging a few weeks behind schedule but that's alright, it helps keep the snowpack intact for a while longer.

Higher flows may be in the forecast soon, but we have had some opportunity to fish, and even during the early stages of runoff, we should have some more windows to fish the local rivers.

For a good refresher on early spring tactics we dig back in the archives to some videos we made nine years ago covering tactics, patterns, and where to look when fishing this time of the year.

Check out these three videos to help you dial in your early season fishing!

NRS Slipstream Rafts for Sale

Sat, 01 Apr 2023 00:02:00 +0000

Just add water (and anchor)!

We have two of the new NRS Slipstream Deluxe Raft Packages in-stock and ready to fish! Both the 96 and 120 are here and for sale. This new fishing raft from NRS is designed specifically for angling and is feature rich right out of the box to get you fishing faster and more comfortably.

We have seen a lot of rafts over the years and have always been fans of the NRS fishing raft packages, the Slipstream series will be no exception and will be one of the most dialed "out-of-the-box" packages yet.

Our first shipment arrived and included 1 each of the Slipstream size offerings... the 96 (9'6"), 120 (12'0"), and 139 (13'9"). The 139 has sold. We are stocking the Gray color only.

If you have any questions or would like to purchase a boat give us a call! 509-924-9998

* Note: Packages do not include anchor

* Note: LOCAL PICK-UP ONLY.

NRS Slipstream Raft Information

The NRS Slipstream 96 Raft Packages feature our smallest fishing raft. This 9'6" long Slipstream inflatable is designed specifically to fit in most standard truck beds fully inflated. It's the perfect boat for a rower and one angler looking to Catch the Adventure™ far from crowds.

The NRS Slipstream 120 Fishing Raft Package features our do-it-all small fishing boat. The Slipstream 120 is built to handle whitewater and flatwater, this compact powerhouse can take a rower and two anglers to the best fishing spots with ease.

The NRS Slipstream 139 Fishing Raft Packages feature the gear-hauling fishing boat. Built to handle the heavy loads of multi-day fishing adventures with plenty of room for coolers and dry boxes, plus a rower and multiple anglers.

Purpose-built for anglers, Slipstream rafts feature a streamlined design with deliberately placed d-rings, handles and valves to reduce weight and eliminate catch points.

Rugged PVC construction and an additional layer of PVC as a frame wear patch for long-lasting durability.

4" drop-stitch floor provides a super stable platform, eliminating the need for casting platforms. Attaches to the boat with two straps.

EVA foam pad provides superior traction and grip when wet and protects the floor from hooks, studded wading boots, grit and basic wear and tear.

The modular fishing frame, thoughtfully built out specifically for the Slipstream 96, stores compactly in the off season. Easily adjust the cross member pieces for a custom fit for the rower and front angler.

The frame includes an internally routed anchor system that's controlled from the rower's seat for an outstanding fishing experience.

Slipstream Rafts holds a 5-year retail warranty, 3-year commercial.

Standard Package includes all the basic frame components to accommodate one angler and one rower. (Oars, accessories and anchor line sold separately.)

Deluxe Package includes everything in the Standard Package plus Cataract SGG Oars and Cataract Cutthroat Oar Blades, Fishing Rod Holder to stow (2) 9' rods, a 2:1 anchor assist pulley, anchor line and two Clampit Cup Holders.

96 Deluxe Package Price - $4495.00

120 Deluxe Package Price - $5495.00 Sold

139 Deluxe Package Price - $5995.00 Sold

* Note: LOCAL PICK-UP ONLY.

Slipstream Deluxe Package Includes

Slipstream Raft (96,120 or 139)

(2) Side Rails

Angler Thigh hook - bow

Angler Seat and bar

Rower Seat and bar

Rower Foot Brace

(2) 8" Oar Mounts

(2) Atomic Aluminum Oarlocks

(2) Cataract SGG Oars with Rope Wrap & Stop (8ft Shafts - 96) - (8.5' Shafts - 120) - (9' Shafts - 139)

(2) Cataract Cutthroat Oar Blades

Anchor System: 2:1 Assist SMC CRx 1" Pulley

40' Anchor line

Fishing Rod Holder

(2) Clampit Drink Holders

(4) 4' HD Tie-Down straps

Super 2 Hand Pump

NRS Slipstream 96

NRS Slipstream 120

NRS Slipstream 139

NRS Slipstream 139 Top View

Internally routed anchor system

2:1 Assist SMC CRx 1" Pulley

Earth Day River Cleanup

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 18:01:40 +0000

Earth Day River Cleanup

Join the Spokane River Keeper and River Forum cleaning the Spokane River! They are hosting their first and biggest public river cleanup of the year with the Spokane River Forum on Earth Day 2023. Last year volunteers removed 4,900 pounds of litter from Hangman Creek and the Spokane River. They will provide gloves and bags, you bring solid walking shoes.

Register Online

Earth Day River Cleanup
Saturday April 22nd, 2023 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
High Bridge Park

Outcast Boats For Sale

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 18:32:11 +0000

New boat, new you!

Looking to expand your fishing horizons this year? We have a number of different Outcast float tubes and one man rafts in-stock plus more on the way.

Currently we have three very popular float tube options.

Fish Cat 4 LCS - $299

A great "intro" float tube that doesn't break the bank and gets you a good quality product. Perfect for exploring smaller lakes, ponds, and areas not too far from the launch. This is the number one seller for Outcast for good reason! A good tube, at a good price.

Fish Cat 5 MAX - $379

Like the popular Fish Cat 4 LCS, but 20% larger and with a couple more inches of interior seat space. Perfect for the anglers that need a bigger boat for carrying capacity.

Fish Cat Cruzer - $459

Take the Fish Cat 4 LCS and add the power of oars! Cover more water with ease. The top selling Fish Cat 4 LCS equipped with 2 piece oars, give your legs a break!

Single Man Frameless Pontoons

The modern frameless, one-man pontoons mean three things... 1. Lighterweight. No extra weight of the frame to lug around and row. 2. Packability. These boats pack up much smaller without the frame for easier transportation. 3. Cleaner design. Less snags and areas for fly line to grab when fishing.

OSG Stealth Pro - $1269

The modern pontoon in one sleek package. With a rocker tube design this lightweight pontoon can handle rough swells on lakes and some whitewater on moving rivers. With no frame, just inflate and go!

OSG Clearwater - $1649

Big water and plenty of cargo carrying capacity for one angler. This lightweight single-man raft can take you on many great adventures whether stillwater or rivers. A very capable boat with a multi-position oar system and inflatable seat for all day comfort and great visibility.

Two Man Raft

OSG Striker - $3699 - ARRIVING MID APRIL

This light weight two man raft has been super popular for anglers seeking to take advantage of lesser fished waters. Capable of tossing over steep riverbanks, easy to portage, and boldly go where there are no formal boat launches. The Striker has a minimal frame design for quick setups and can easily be stowed in the back of most pickup trucks for easy transportation.

Spring Fishing Is Here

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 19:45:32 +0000

The long wait is over.

Spring fishing is finally here. Anglers are beginning to come out from their winter slumber and the trout are starting to look up. A few early reports of some dry fly activity on the rivers with midges and bwo's making up the starting lineup of hatches. Nemoura and skwala stones will soon be more prevalent, don't leave home without some stonefly nymphs as they are a staple for spring indicator fishing.

The NF Coeur d'Alene and Clark Fork are some of the best bets right now. The St. Joe is a little more "wintery" but adventurous anglers have already floated the lower river, braving the ice ledges and tossing boats over the snow banks. The Spokane River is closed as of March 15th from the ID/WA state line to Nine Mile Falls Dam. Please report anyone fishing to WDFW if you see them, help protect our spawning Redbands!

Early season lakes like Amber and Coffeepot are fishing alright. The ice came off really quick last week and folks got to fishing right away. Leeches, blobs, and chironomids on both have been productive. Medical is still frozen as of Monday with 4” of ice.

Whether you need bugs, leaders / tippet, fresh line, or more, we are stocked and ready to roll for spring! Come see the crew here at the shop and get to fishing!

Amber Lake after ice-out. Photo by Kenyon

Clark Fork River, Montana

Clark Fork Montana

Clark Fork Montana

Clark Fork Montana

Montana Bonefish

Midge

2023 F3T - Fly Fishing Film Tour

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 21:30:54 +0000

More films, more fun!

More fly fishing film tour fun this week with the return of the Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T)! The F3T is the original fly fishing film tour that travels around the country and makes it's annual stop in Spokane at the Bing.

This year's films look to be another great lineup. A discount ticket code is available at the Silver Bow with any purchase.

Doors: 6:30pm
Show: 7:30pm

More info / Online Tickets Here

Lakes Report

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 00:05:13 +0000

Lakes

I took a drive out to Amber lake on Monday to check on ice conditions and see if I could catch a few fish. I've found over the last few years that if you can time it right and find a ribbon of open water along the shoreline, the fish are more than willing to participate.

The majority of the lake still had a solid cap of ice on it, however the area near the boat launch had enough open water to dunk some flies. Over the next few hours of staring at a bobber, the ice kept melting off which was enough to open up a chuck of water to fish effectively. I did manage to find some fish on balanced leeches and the dreaded blob fly (it works, don't be a hater)

I'd bet after another day or two of warm weather it should be mostly ice free and very fishable. The lake level is quite low again this year so exercise caution if you intend to launch a boat.

I stopped by Medical lake on my way home and it was still iced over, this lake seems to take a bit longer to lose the ice since it is more protected from wind and gets less direct sunlight, especially around the boat launch area. I'd imagine this is still another week out or so.

Our good friend Malyn went out to Coffeepot and got a fresh update for us as well, it looks like a lot of the lake is open water but the boat launch area is still socked in with ice. Another spot that hopefully only needs a few more days of good weather to open up.

We will update further as fresh reports trickle in. One of us or someone we know is always out fishing so check back frequently!

Amber Lake - Sunday 12, 2023. Fishable now

Coffee Pot

Spokane River Fishing

Sat, 04 Mar 2023 19:56:06 +0000

Fly fishing the Spokane River.

The clock is ticking if you are looking to hit the local fishery before it closes March 15th. The guys and I were out this week for a float on the Spokane River and found a few willing participants.

While the fishery is still very much in winter mode, generally the last couple weeks we see an uptick in the fishing before it closes for the spawning season. This week's tactic has mostly been nymphing, both bobber and euro were productive. Ultimately though bobber fishing is the better choice while it's chilly out so you can fish the slower, deeper water more effectively.

Trout spey and streamer fishing is getting a little love and should improve as water temps warm.

While we don't get crazy hatches like the Montana streams or even Washington rivers like the Yakima, we do see some variety of insects. Aside from midges and bwo's which have been hatching, the Spokane River does see some skwala stonefly activity. The nymphs have been getting active reports Silver Bow guide Jesse Retan.

Don't forget, or in case you didn't know, we are running a special on Spokane River guide trips from now until March 15th, $375 for a 4hr float. That's a savings of $125 compared to the regular season rate of $500. So if you want to get out of the house and get to fishing let us do the rowing and call Bo Brand our guide manager to get scheduled. 509-924-9998.

Get out there!

IF4 Raffle Prizes!

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 23:28:59 +0000

Help protect the Spokane River!

Lots of stellar prizes for the upcoming International Fly Fishing Film Festival with the Spokane Riverkeeper are rolling in!

Spokane River Guided Trip for 2 with Silver Bow Fly Shop

Winston Air 2 590-4

Echo Trout X 590-4

Ross Animas 4/5 Olive

Patagonia Guidewater Backpack

Patagonia Guidewater Hip Pack

Orvis Pro Boat Bag

Bitterroot Nets custom wood

Bitterroot Nets custom fly box

and more!

Discount Tickets available online: https://www.showclix.com/event/if42023spokanewa

Tickets available at the door too!

100% of ticket and raffle sales go directly to the Spokane Riverkeeper to help protect the Spokane River!

Winter Is Still Here, But So are the Trout

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 21:01:33 +0000

Cold cutts!

Kenyon and I took a quick trip up the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene yesterday to see how winter is shaping up on the region's favorite cutthroat stream.

Like most winters, the further up you go... the colder and icier conditions get. This February trip was no exception and compared to last year at this same time, conditions yesterday were even more iced over, probably remnants from the last big freeze a couple weeks ago.

Just above Prichard the ice shelves start and open water comes extremely limited if not nonexistent. Below Prichard however, there are no issues currently and plenty of free-flowing water to fish. I would suspect if temps stay mild like they are, the ice near Prichard gets cleared out quick, maybe another week or so.

Water temps below Prichard were around 36, above there were 33. Brrr. Cutthroat were active though in the lower regions. We could visually watch cutthroat cruising and cycling slow moving runs / pools looking for a meal. Kenyon also was able to sight fish to some fish which was fun to see them move towards his subsurface offerings. While there was no fish feeding on the surface we did see some midge hatching.

If you need to get out of the house and smell some fresh air, the Idaho streams are an option. Keep in mind it's winter time still so don't expect lights out fishing and keep in mind cold water temps will have fish concentrated in slower/deeper water. Subsurface offerings like streamers or nymphs will be the go-to still for a few more weeks.

Enjoy the weekend, have fun!

Pre-Runoff Guide Trip Special

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 21:01:40 +0000

Pre-runoff special rate $375!

If you are looking to dust off your waders and take advantage of some mild February weather let us do the rowing!

February and the first couple weeks of March before can be pretty good fishing before the season closes for spring spawning. This time of the year we fish streamers, double nymph rigs, euro rigs, and if warm enough before the closure, we can get some bwo or skwala action on the surface.

The floats we do are also ideal for this time of the year, focusing on the warmest part of the day, no early starts right now! Cure your winter blues and get your fish fix!

Pre-Runoff Special Rate: $375 plus tax. Save $125!
Pre-Runoff Special Rate dates: Now - March 15th, 2023. Approximately 4-5 hr float.

Regular Season Rate: $500 plus tax

Contact Bo Brand at the Silver Bow to get scheduled: 509-924-9998

IF4 Films and Raffles for Spokane Riverkeeper

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 22:14:18 +0000

Fishing films, fun, and fundraising!

We are stoked to announce the International Fly Fishing Film Festival is back this March 2nd at the Garland Theater! The Spokane Riverkeeper crew is hosting the event and we (Silver Bow) are the primary sponsor!

100% of ticket sales and raffles will go straight to the Spokane Riverkeeper to help their organization protect the Spokane River watershed.

There are going to be some great films and raffles this year so you won't want to miss it! More details on the raffles coming soon.

Tickets are on sale online or at the door if available.

Date: Thursday, March 2nd, 2023

Time: Doors open at 5:30 pm. Film begins at 7:00 pm

Where: The Garland Theater, 924 W Garland Ave, Spokane, WA 99205

Purchase Tickets Online
This Year’s IF4 is Hosted by Spokane Riverkeeper at the Garland Theater!

All proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Riverkeeper organization and efforts to protect the Spokane River fishery! We hope to see you there!

The Spokane Riverkeeper is very excited to be hosting the International Fly Fishing Film Festival this spring for 2023 tour. The IF4 is the world’s leading fly-fishing film event, featuring a stunning line-up of official selections that will take audiences on jaw-dropping fly-fishing adventures. IF4 consists of films produced by professional filmmakers from all corners of the globe and showcases the passion, lifestyle, and culture of fly fishing. Created by fly anglers for fly anglers, it is the gathering place of the fly-fishing community and a celebration of friendship, fly-fishing stories and stoke.

For more information about the IF4, visit https://www.flyfilmfest.com

All proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Riverkeeper organization and efforts to protect the Spokane River fishery.

Last Intro Fly Tying 2/15

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 00:28:26 +0000

Fun, simple, and informative.

We have one final Intro Fly Tying Class for the season scheduled for next week February 15th. If you have been wanting to learn how to tie flies this is your opportunity!

Our beginner fly tying class is geared towards the person that has either never tied flies, has limited experience tying, or needs a refresher. We keep it fun, simple, and informative.

The best thing about our class besides great instruction is you get a full Hareline Materials Kit included in the cost, that's a $168 value!

Call to sign-up asap! 509-924-9998 Space is limited to 4 students so everyone gets plenty of personal instruction.

Date: Wednesday - Feb 15th, 2023

Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Where: Silver Bow Fly Shop

Cost: $150

Includes: Hareline Materials Kit ($168 value) and use of tools / vise for class.

Snotel Reports

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 21:30:33 +0000

Keep it coming.

Just a little mid-winter check-in for snow conditions. We started off the late fall / early winter with some great snowpack, but since then it's been a bit dry.

We currently have an okay amount of snow in Idaho mountains where most folks in the area spend their angling time, the rivers that also feed the Spokane River.

Nothing to worry about, traditionally we get a lot of late season snow in the mountains in February and March so fingers crossed it happens like usual!

Idaho SNOTEL Current Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) % of Normal

Montana SNOTEL Current Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) % of Normal

Washington State SNOTEL Current Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) % of Normal

Outcast 136 DD Demo Raft Mega Sale

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 01:27:52 +0000

Killer boat. Killer deal.

We have the awesome 2022 Outcast 136 DD Raft looking for a new home! We are selling this bought at a crazy deal! This boat was demoed one time by Bo Brand here at the Silver Bow for a quick day on the Spokane, about 4hrs of use! It is virtually brand new!

The Outcast 136 DD (double diminishing tubes) makes for a great fly fishing raft whether it's day trips with the family or multi-day overnight adventures. The extra interior space allows for more gear, dogs, or space for the kids!

Sales Price: $5995 - Plus sales tax

Current Pricing: $7799 - (you save $1804 by getting this almost new raft! Not to mention we already paid to ship it here, plus laced in the floor which saves another couple hundred bucks and time!)

Includes: Raft / NRS Fishing Frame and Seats

Does Not Include: Oars / blades, anchor, anchor rope, pump, or trailer

Turneffe with Bo Sold Out

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 20:51:50 +0000

Premier flats fishing.

SOLD OUT.

Due to last minute cancellations we have 2 spots open for an upcoming hosted trip with Bo Brand to Turneffe Flats Lodge in Belize.

This is a great opportunity to experience one of the world's premier saltwater destinations with a great group of guests!

I've been to Turneffe and Bo has done several trips there as well, it is a well run operation with an excellent staff, guides, and accommodations.

Turneffe Flats Lodge is ideally situated on Turneffe Atoll, Belize approximately 20 miles offshore from Belize City. The lodge has been in operation for 40 years and specializes in bonefish, permit, and tarpon fishing.

If you are interested in snagging one or both of these spots please reach out to Bo ASAP! 509-924-9998

SOLD OUT.

Trip Date - March 18 through 25, 2023

Cost - $5,290 plus tax ($422.70)

Included - 6 days / 7 nights accommodations, guiding, all meals, round trip transportation to and from Belize City Intl Airport

Not Included - Flights to Belize City, gratuity, alcohol / beverages

Sage Salt R8 Fly Rods

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 19:43:36 +0000

Saltwater Specific / Fast Action / More Fight, More Touch

Sage recently launched the all New SALT R8 fly rod designed for saltwater fly fishing adventures from bonefish, redfish, permit, tarpon, and beyond.

We received a few SALT R8's in the shop and had a good visit with 31 year veteran Sage Rep George Cook who brought an arsenal of SALT R8 rods for us to cast with various Rio saltwater fly lines.

Whether it was the 6wt or the 11wt SALT R8 that we cast the rod lineup keeps the same feel across the board. Fast tip through butt, however, fast doesn't mean it lacks any feel. The rod loads smoothly and should give anglers of varying skill level the ability to sense the loading.

Being a saltwater specific fly rod, the SALT R8 was no slouch and you could really lay into it to drive line speed. But if an angler is more relaxed and lets say backed off the power by 30% it still loaded and performed well. I did find that a smooth, yet powerful casting stroke was best.

One of my personal favorite traits was the positive turnover the tip provided. These rods should have no issues turning over lead-eyed crab or shrimp patterns, especially combined with the right lines.

We have some SALT R8's in-stock so if you have saltwater destinations on your horizon come by and cast one for yourself! The Sage SALT R8 is a big improvement over the former Sage SALT HD... which you never saw in the shop cuz we didn't care for it much!

Notes and specs from Sage:

25% Greater Strength Per Rod - Greater Pulling power equals more fight for faster landing and less stress on delicate ecosystems

Enhanced Durability - Enhanced toughness withstands more rugged situations and demands of remote travel

More Intuitive Sweet Spot - Prioritizes touch and speed for shorter shots and on-demand casts

Saltwater Specific Guide Set - Fuji K-guides resist corrosion, while angled shape prevents snags and tangling in the chaos of the fight. Oversized chrome snake guides and tip-top allow larger slatwater knots to pass with ease.

Heavy-Duty Reel Seat - Built for enhanced contact and confidence, heavy-duty reel seat and oversized locking rings keep reel tight to the rod for greater contact, rigidity, and a more dirrect connection when fighting powerful high-stakes fish

Features

Revolution 8 Technology

Tempest Blue blank color

Slate primary thread wraps with graduated White and Grey trim

Premium Flor Grade Cork Handle w/EVA Butt

Black rod bag with new cord lock for quicker, easier, and cleaner storage

Aluminium rod tube with Sage medallion

Price: $1100

690-4

790-4

890-4

990-4

1090-4

1190-4

1290-4

1290-4FG

1586-4

Intro Fly Tying Class Availability

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 19:17:03 +0000

Keeping it fun, simple, and informative.

Intro Fly Tying Class with Kenyon Pitts has 1 slot available for February's date! Our 2 hours class will teach you the basics of fly tying, tools, and materials to start off with a solid foundation of fly tying.

This beginner fly tier course INCLUDES a full materials kit from Hareline valued at $168! The kit provides you with enough materials for dozens of flies and a great instructional booklet that the class is based on.

Space is limited to 4 students per class so everyone can get plenty of individual attention. You will learn a lot in a short amount of time!

Cost: $150 (includes $168 Hareline Materials Kit)

Call to sign-up! 509-924-9998

Instructors

Kenyon Pitts

Dates Available:

Day Date Time

Wednesday February 1, 2023 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm Sold Out

Wednesday February 15, 2023 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

YaYa Fly Tying Night

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 23:41:21 +0000

Community Fly Tying Jan 11th

We are hosting another community fly tying night at YaYa Brewing here in the Spokane Valley Wednesday January 11th! The awesome folks at YaYa are kindly allowing us to host another evening of tying flies, drinking beers and hanging out to break up the harsh winter weather and long fishless nights. The guys are going to be there from 6:00 - 8:00 pm cranking out some trout, saltwater and winter steelhead fly patterns. Everyone is welcome to bring their own vise and material to tie along or spin up some of their own signature patterns. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about your own flies as well!

This event is free for all to attend, but we strongly encourage buying a couple beverages to support the brewery. There are select non-alcoholic beverages available too. The shop will be open until 6:00 pm for any last minute materials you may need before heading over.

In an effort to keep things simple and casual, we suggest picking a pattern or two and bringing appropriate material and tools. We won't be supplying any items, just bringing our own tying kits. Ideally, this will give everyone a chance to mingle and ask questions without being too overwhelming.

Location: YaYa Brewing Company
11712 E Montgomery Dr Unit F1-3, Spokane Valley, WA 99206 https://g.page/yayabrewco

Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Materials, vise and tools not included

Cost: Free

Need a way to organize your tying gear on the move!

Tailwater Fly Tying Bag

2022 Season Wrap Up

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 19:03:30 +0000

So long 2022 and thanks for all the fish!

2022 started off like 2021 with a plague of supply chain issues and uncertainty in the fishing industry manufacturing like everywhere else. As the year progressed and normalcy returned to everyday life the issues of factory shutdowns and supply chain hang-ups eventually lessened and the ability to acquire fly tackle became easier and easier.

We luckily never ran into too many hiccups with a robust, in-stock inventory but now special orders are easier to get like they were before the pandemic as most manufacturers are mostly caught up. There are still a couple manufacturers with major inventory issues and rod repairs still seem to be a problem with long lead times but overall it's not too bad out there. To elaborate on rod repairs, a few of the major companies are upwards of 5 months for repair so BE CAREFUL with your equipment or buy a backup rod!

Our 2022 hosted trips included Bo's trip back to Turneffe Island Lodge with a great group of folks including anglers and non-anglers enjoying a week in the warm and sunshine. Some of the guests even did a little scuba diving in the incredible waters of Belize. I returned to Las Pampas Patagonia with a group of anglers for wild trout fishing in southern Argentina. This was my third trip to the area and as usual the lodge crew of Las Pampas never disappoints with incredible service and great fishing opportunities. A 2020 covid delayed hosted trip I had rescheduled twice finally happened in April when we ventured to the other side of the world at Farquhar, Seychelles. This fishery was unlike any other I had been to and was an incredible opportunity for all that attended. A week of chasing giant trevallies, bonefish, Indo permit, and many other crazy Indian Ocean species checked new species boxes for all the guests.

Winter snowpack over the 2021/2022 season was big across the region and we certainly had no lack of water or runoff. The spring melt was significant and delayed our 2022 Spokane River season of guiding by 3-4 weeks with extremely high and unfishable water levels. As you probably recall, Yellowstone National Park saw record-setting flooding devastating roads, bridges, and buildings in the northern sections of the park and Paradise Valley. There was a lot of runoff everywhere to say the least!

Once the rivers settled it was game-on. Summer levels on most rivers were a little healthier and the heat wasn't extreme for too long. Luckily we dodged the fire season and had minimal days with smoke or closed fisheries like the summer of 2021 when both the NF Coeur d'Alene and St. Joe Rivers were shut down for most of July and August with wildfires.

Fall was incredible around the region with beautiful weather and great temps. The fishing too reflected it. Hopefully everyone was able to enjoy it while it lasted because it came to a screeching halt at the beginning of November when winter decided to show early. Snow and freezing cold temps caused the fishing and desire to go fishing to shut-off like a faucet. The week before Christmas brought even colder temps and no fishing, but post Christmas brought a shift and a little open water for those willing to get out.

Overall 2022 was a decent year here at Silver Bow as we settled back down to "pre-pandemic" style of business. Like many outdoor industries (hiking, biking, overlanding, etc) the past two years were a busy one and we are extremely grateful for that! Now that the pandemic boom has worn off it's back to business as usual and as always we will be here for your fly fishing needs!

Happy New Year! Thank you for your business in 2022 and we hope your 2023 fishing is successful!

Bo with a trigger fish caught at Turneffe Atoll, Belize.

Peg with a bonefish atoll Turneffe Atoll.

Fly fishing a spring creek in Rio Pico, Argentina.

Las Pampas fly fishing guide Nico Alvrez with a Rio Pico brown trout.

Kenyon with a beautiful late winter cutthroat trout on the NF Coeur d'Alene River.

Bo and Jesse drifting and fly fishing the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River.

Jake fly fishing on the St. Joe River.

Spencer with a bumphead parrotfish caught fly fishing at Farquhar, Seychelles.

Sean with a giant trevally from Farquhar Seychelles - Photo by Cameron Musgrave

Post work beer at the Silver Bow Fly Shop in Spokane, Washington.

Early morning guide trip starts on the Spokane River. - Photo by Jesse Retan.

Hopper fishing for cutthroat trout.

Bo spey casting on the Grande Ronde River, Washington.

Silver Bow guide Kenyon on the Grande Ronde River guiding steelhead.

Fly fishing for wild trout.

January 4 Fly Tying Class

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 20:33:29 +0000

Start off with a solid foundation

Winter fly tying classes are in full swing here at the Silver Bow Fly Shop. We have numerous dates available and our upcoming January 4th class has 1 spot available at the time of this writing. Call ASAP if you are interested and have your credit card handy.

Our Intro Fly Tying Class is 2 hours long and will focus on building a solid foundation of basics for you to grow on. Students will learn about tools, materials, and the steps to create a variety of basic trout flies. This simple and fun class will be informative and not meant to be overwhelming.

Call to sign-up! 509-924-9998

Instructors

Kenyon Pitts

Dates Available:

Day Date Time

Wednesday January 4, 2023 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm Sold Out

Wednesday February 1, 2023 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Wednesday February 15, 2023 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

What is Productive Winter Fishing

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 21:28:18 +0000

Winter options.

Adjusting one's mindset on fishing productivity is a must in my opinion. There are many factors working against you in the winter to have productive fishing... the main ones being freezing air and water temps.

A productive wintertime outing to me means:

You got out of the house to fish

You didn't freeze to death

You didn't fall in

You didn't see too many people

If you are lucky enough to catch 1 or more fish, well then that's a helluva winter day on the water!

Typical wintertime fishing options around Spokane, Washington...

1 - Spokane River - Never freezes thanks to our aquifer. Water temps also stay more consistent, generally not below 36/37 degrees. Downside to winter fishing here is Hangman (Latah) Creek can dump mud in after a heavy rain or low elevation snow melt requiring you to fish above or across from the off colored influx of water. If temps are staying below freezing at night this generally isn't a problem.

2 - Rocky Ford Creek - A spring fed creek north of Moses Lake. Never freezes and can be fished 365 days of the year. The water temps and levels are stable. Downside because of it's semi-neutral location between Seattle, Spokane, and Tri-Cities is that on mild winter days it can be busy being one of the very few winter options. Fish are stocked here by the hatchery located on site so if you are looking for wild trout and scenic views this is not the place. But if you need a tug on the end of your line well then you are in luck.

3 - Crab Creek - A small desert (scabland) creek west of Spokane. It doesn't have a ton of fish, nor tons of access or special regulations so it's not an excellent option in my humble opinion, but an option nonetheless. The further away from the access spots, the better. Don't expect greatness, nor large fish like Rocky Ford, but this semi-spring fed creek can check the boxes listed above.

4 - Snake River (steelhead) - The largest of the three nearby steelhead rivers by Lewiston/Clarkston. The Grande Ronde can be plagued with ice or blowout conditions in the winter and the Cleawater River can be bitter cold or blowout as well. The Snake River tends to be a little more stable and a little warmer. The mellow currents of the Snake can provide excellent swing opportunities during the colder months. Access is decent from Anantone up to the mouth of the Grande Ronde River. If you have a jet boat there is considerably more water to fish.

Chilly Day Photos

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 19:01:04 +0000

Hang in there

A little brisk out there to be fishing right now. Looks like it will be short lived and then back to more manageable temperatures. When temps get back to the 30's and near 40 the usual winter spots should be doable: Spokane River, Rocky Ford Creek, Crab Creek, Snake River.

For now we are just dreaming about fishing and ice free guides.

Enjoy some photos from warmer times this year. Happy holiday shopping.

4 Gift Ideas for Anglers

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 22:33:13 +0000

We have you covered.

Holiday shopping crunch time is here! Let your local fly fishing superstore help you out! We have one of the region's largest and best fly fishing inventories and the knowledge to back it up. Come visit us and let our crew outfit your favorite fly fisher for the holidays. You won't be disappointed!

We specialize in fly fishing equipment for angler's that fish locally or travel around the world!

Guided Trips

Create memories for your favorite angler! Gift them a guided trip with the Silver Bow! Our Spokane River trips are super popular gifts during the holidays. Call us for details on how to book.

Gift Cards

Let’s admit it... fly anglers are picky! This is the ONLY item NEVER returned and always stoked to be received by fisher people! Any amount can be applied.

Visit the Shop

We are FULLY LOADED with gear! Over the years we have invested heavily to make sure we have the most sought after items year round. Let the crew here help you find something special for the angler in your life. From stocking stuffers to the latest fly rods, we have it all and more.

Intro Fly Tying Class

Our Intro Fly Tying Class is perfect for anglers wanting to start fly tying. We include a full Hareline Materials Kit so you have something to wrap under the tree! Numerous dates available. Class sizes are kept small (4 students) to maximize individual instruction.

Skwalaclaus Holiday Festivus Sweepstakes

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 20:02:34 +0000

Sign up for the Skwalaclaus Holiday Festivus for a chance to pick your own $2,000 Skwala gear dream package and a two-day, custom, guided fishing experience for you and a friend from the Silver Bow Fly Shop.

Get after it—this offer ends on December 20th, 2022

1. Sign up on the Skwala Website https://skwalafishing.com/pages/skwalaclaus
2. Choose your favorite Skwala Fly Shop = Silver Bow Fly Shop.
3. That easy!

Rules and details - https://skwalafishing.com/pages/skwalaclaus

Winner will be notified December 22nd, 2022

Is Fall Fishing Over?

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 01:37:30 +0000

Fall on the fly

Is fall fishing over? NO. But it got a heck of a lot colder! It definitely feels more like winter out there now after yesterday's snow storm and if you have lived in the Inland NW for any length of time you should expect some level of coldsnap in November. Generally though it's a bit closer to Thanksgiving.

So what does this mean for fall fishing? Well, it will put a damper on the streams that's for sure. Not that they are completely unfishable, it's just a big shock to the system to get this cold this quick. Trout will be a bit more lethargic and hunkered down. Hatches will be super sparse too, pretty much just midges and maybe some bwo's... odds of rising trout are slimmer.

As the region settles into colder temps the fish will become acclimated and everything will find it's rhythm for the upcoming winter season.

The Spokane River, Crab Creek, Rocky Ford Creek, and steelhead fisheries like the Clearwater, Snake River, and Grande Ronde River should continue plugging as long as it doesn't get "too cold". What does "too cold" mean? Well... I'd say when night time temps are well below freezing and day temps aren't really getting above freezing, if even hitting freezing, then it gunna be extremely tough and some of those fisheries will really start to ice up.

The Spokane River will be our go-to from here on out. Close proximity, warmer water (thanks aquifer and top-spill dams), stable flows, and wild trout. If you get too cold, it's a short drive home!

Steelhead Scenes

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 20:50:03 +0000

Swinging for steel

Fall can be a tough decision if you live in our general area and love to fly fish... to go trout or steelhead fishing?

With the allure of more steelhead this year than last the draw to go down south and chase steelhead has been higher for some. I'd say the rivers haven't been too busy overall from what I have witnessed.

Steelhead will be steelhead and catch rates remain like they always are, some here, some there. Day-to-day, angler-to-angler. Not everyone is crushing fish left and right. But steelhead are being caught nonetheless.

Water temps in the Grande Ronde got cold in a hurry last week. I was down with a buddy and Kenyon last Wednesday. The water temped out in the morning at 44 degrees, warming to 46. It felt super cold wading in it, that's for sure. The fish we caught were in slow, slow winter style currents. Nymphing only. Swung some premo runs... nada.

Fish that have been caught by us or anglers we know have been pretty much caught nymphing, don't know many folks that have swung fish this year. I don't know why that is. I also have noticed that most fish have been hatchery. Like pretty much 98% of them from ones I've caught, Kenyon, or angling friends. Not sure what to make of it, simply stating what we have seen.

I fished the Snake River this weekend for a few runs after a mountain biking session at Hell's Gate State Park. Kinda a fun way to mix up the day. Zero fish for me, I watched a gear boat pull two out just above me in the afternoon.

No reports lately from the Clearwater River. Like usual. The word on the street we had heard this year was there was supposed to be more B-runs than usual, hope that's the case!

Kenyon is back down there for his days off this week trying to find more steel. I'm sure he will, he always does! Will update the reports when he is back.

Spokane Riverkeeper Event

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 18:00:14 +0000

Protecting the Spokane River

Spokane RiverKeeper's annual Spoken River Event is this Friday 10/28th, 2022 at Hamilton Studios.

Jerry White and the crew at the Spokane RiverKeeper are one of the Spokane River's biggest assets helping protect the river for all of our enjoyment.

Their largest annual fundraiser is this Friday, please click the link below for more info and help support the RiverKeeper's efforts.

More information, silent auction items, donation options and registation
here

Virtual event is free for all to participate in!

Bid on a Silver Bow Fly Shop Spokane River Guided Fly Fishing Float Trip

Bid Here

What's your connection to our river?

Can not attend the event in person or virtually?
Make a Donation

Yellowstone Park Fishing Post Flood

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 17:45:47 +0000

Back in action

After June's historic flooding in the northern section of Yellowstone National Park the animals and fish that call YNP home all got a well deserved break from visitors and anglers. In July most of the northern loop was reopened, but the iconic Lamar Valley and NE entrance remained closed to visitors until October 15th because of such devastating damage.

I was in the park for 4th of July on a whirlwind 1.5 day visit, but didn't have much time to fish and didn't know what to expect so shortly after the flooding. This time around we planned a little extra time on an annual fall road trip and snuck a few casts in on both the Yellowstone and Lamar Rivers.

Nighttime temps were brisk so there was no need for early starts and most of the action was sub-surface with hatches being on the tail end of the season. The cutthroat however were full of fight and seemed healthier than ever before. A typical season in Yellowstone receives tens of thousands of anglers and with no access to the park's famed North East corner fisheries until last weekend, the Yellowstone cutthroat were well rested. Only part-way through the summer did outfitters gain access to bring guests to portions of Yellowstone, Lamar, or Slough Creek waterways so angling pressure was a fraction of what it could be.

Overall traffic was very light in the park and despite a few construction zone stops due to the ongoing reconstruction of roadways in the Lamar Valley, there was no issue finding a spot to fish or explore the Yellowstone region. Yellowstone National Park, while yes can be overly loved and busy, is truly a special place that is a treasure worth seeing, and of course fishing!

Gear Notes From the Trip:

Rods -

I recently picked up the Air2 9' 6wt Winston and absolutely love it. With a bit more power than the 5wt, the Air2 6wt is a perfect western river style rod. Easy casting but handles nymph rigs and dry / droppers with ease. I have it paired with my trusty Ross Evolution R 5/6 and Airflo Universal Taper (Redband color).

The other rod / reel we used was the new Orvis Helios 5D. The Helios series from Orvis is incredible. A bit faster in the tip than the Air2 we were fishing, the 5D (5wt Distance) was Jen's favorite due to the lightness and feel. We have it paired with the made in the USA Orvis Mirage Reel and Scientific Anglers Amplitude Textured MPX, this set-up JAMS!

Waders -

I have been using the new SIMMS G3 Waders and love them, especially if I am going to be hiking around. They feel lighter and more breathable than previous models which makes them super comfortable for rock scrambling and getting off the beaten path. I am a big fan of my Patagonia Swiftcurrent Zip Waders, but these new SIMMS G3's are a dialed for when I plan on doing some more active fly fishing / hiking.

Steelheading Update

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 20:13:55 +0000

You can't catch them from the couch

The latest from steelhead land has been improving. Kenyon has been splitting his time between the shop and the Grande Ronde the last few weeks and has noted an improvement in catch rates as of late.

The first numbers of trips were spotty, some days nothing, other days a few. That is also steelheading in general no matter what. But the fishing has been more positive lately and some bigger fish.

Fish counts are continuing to trend the same direction as they have been, which is substantially better than last year, but under the ten year average.

For the latest fish counts click here

Skwala Jackets and Waders

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 18:38:05 +0000

Everything you need, nothing you don't

We recently received our first shipment of Skwala waders and jackets! Skwala is a new technical apparel company out of Bozeman, MT specializing in highly functional waders, jackets, and clothing. The motto for Skwala is "Everything you need, and nothing you don't". We agree.

Carbon Wader - The Carbon Wader, in my opinion, is one of the best "3-season" waders I have seen for our area. The upper portion folds down to convert to waist high waders with minimal bulk! Lightweight, but built for durability.

Carbon Rain Jacket - This waterproof shell moves with you! Built in stretch and mobility keep the jacket from binding when casting or rowing. The right blend of weight and protection.

RS Rain Jacket - Bomber protection. Think steelheading, coastal rains, and foul weather. One feature that we really love is the inner cuff sleeve has been designed to not hinder your casting, this in particular is super helpful when spey casting./p>
Fusion 3/2 Puffy - A puffy with stretch! This is no ordinary puffy jacket, it moves with you. From the outer fabric, to the insulation, to the inner liner... all of it has 4-way stretch and mobility. Super comfortable and warm.

Fusion Hybrid - I picked up this piece and LOVE IT! The Fusion Jacket is perfect under a rain jacket with core insulation, and sleeves designed for movement. Killer piece alone or under your shell.

Come by and check out these highly functional pieces from Skwala, NOW IN-STOCK!

6 Months of October

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 00:46:08 +0000

Fall Fun

Our friend Jake Hood once said, 6 months of October would be his ideal situation if he could wish for more of one season. As much as I love spring, I think I would have to agree, fall is pretty special. Lots of happy anglers rolling through the shop heading out to enjoy the fall fishing around the region and beyond. The current forecast should make for some pretty comfortable outings, hopefully you can make it to the water soon.

Pretty much everywhere is fishing right now so there isn't anything to worry about if you are looking to hit your favorite waterway. NF Coeur d'Alene, St. Joe River, Clark Fork, Spokane River, Kootenai River, Kelly Creek... yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, and YES! Literally, GO FISHING! Like usual this time of the year pack your October caddis, mahogany duns, bwo's, fall caddis, and a few terrestrials. Streamer and nymphing of course make up the morning hours, if not the whole day if you would like!

Bo, Kenyon, Jesse, and I all have been out steelheading on the Grande Ronde. The fish are in, with more on the way. It's early and a little spotty, but getting more consistent now. A few others seem to be out on the steelhead rivers, but it doesn't feel that busy really. All tactics have worked, but really it's nymphing that catches the most if you are looking to get hooked up more.

I don't know what else to tell you to inspire you to get out... it's up to you to GO!

Shop News

Lots of fall gear arriving lately... so much that Mike has been overwhelmed trying to find space where to put it!

New to the shop...

Skwala - Waders and Jackets have arrived!

Scott - Wave fly rods have arrived! More Here

Hareline - A BIG RESTOCK... lots of new gizmos and materials. Will highlight in a separate post.

Patagonia - Fall apparel. Still in boxes, hitting the racks.

Simms - Fall apparel. Jackets, flannels, women's rainwear, women's fleece, Freestone nippers, and more!

Guiding

We kicked off our steelhead guiding late September, Kenyon reporting some nice steelhead and trips averaging a few fish per day with a couple quieter days early on. Jesse have been handling the Spokane River trips which have been excellent. Some dry fly action, but really good dropper or nymph action. Bigger fish have been on the prowl. Our Idaho guide Bill said the St. Joe River has been incredible this fall. Anywhere you go now slower currents will be more productive, however, in the case of the Spokane River our guides have said some fish are still hanging in summertime style water. Call shop Guide Manager Bo Brand 509-924-9998 to get on the schedule this fall.

Scott Wave Fly Rods

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 21:49:23 +0000

Ride the Wave

We recently received a batch of the New Scott Wave all water fly rods in 8-12 wts. This new model for Scott Fly Rods is a completely new design targeted for the "price-point" high performance, powerful level of rods.

The Wave from Scott will replace the void where the Tidal series left off. When the fly fishing market surged during the pandemic, and "supply-chain issues" became a household term, Scott had made the decision to drop two rod series from the lineup, the Flex (freshwater) and the mentioned Tidal (salt). This discontinuation of the upper mid-price point series rods has left a gap that needed filled. We certainly understand though their desire to solely focus on keeping up with premium rod demand. The decision to do so led to overall pretty good stock and turnaround time when other companies struggled mightily, and continue to struggle.

This summer we were able to cast a few prototypes of the Scott Wave and were thoroughly impressed with how powerful of a stick it is. If you are familiar with our casting area, standing on the edge of the grass and making just one or two false cast, the Wave could almost effortlessly huck the entire fly line in the hands of the right caster. Honestly if someone has never cast a true premium fly rod, they would be hard pressed to justify the extra few hundred bucks. Side-by-side though against the reigning saltwater champion, Scott Sector, the Wave is still impressive, though not as light in the tip, or as finely balanced in hand as a Sector. The Wave also had a bit more swing weight. All that aside, it's a hell-of-a-fly-rod for $675.

If you are in the market for a mid-priced powerful fly rod capable of anything from large trout, bass, carp, or any saltwater destination in the world, be sure to give the Scott Wave a test cast with us. We will be stocking 8, 9, 10, and 12's on a regular basis and can easily order up the 6 or 7wt if you are looking for those sizes (only so many spots on the rod rack!)

Scott Fly Rod Dealer Since 2005

New

Scott Wave Fly Rods
Shop Scott Wave salt and freshwater fly rods at the Silver Bow Fly Shop in Spokane, Washington

Made in USA

Goodbye Summer

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 00:51:33 +0000

Switching to fall mode

Summer flew by! If you haven't gone fishing this summer... I'm sorry, you missed out! Great water flows, hardly any smoke, and overall happy fish.

Switching to fall mode now. October caddis have started, Mahoganies should be appearing any day. Streamer fishing is good. Bigger fish are on the prowl. Crowds are less. Steelhead are being caught.

I've been slammed writing orders for next year so this blog is short-and-sweet! Enjoy some photos!

Sweet September

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 20:14:02 +0000

Game On!

We love September! There is so much going on in September... temps cooling off, fish are getting more active, hatches pick up, the streamer bite improves, steelhead are arriving, crowds are dissipating. So much sweetness in September!

Our hometown river, the Spokane, has seen a little improvement in flows from water being released out of Coeur d'Alene Lake. The annual drawdown of the lake adds some life back to the river and helps spread the fish around. Our guides have said the fishing as of late has been improving.

Early September on the Idaho rivers is really just an extension of August for another couple weeks until temps really cool off and we get some mahogany duns and October caddis. All of your "dog-days-of-summer" tactics will still work for now. Pack your terrestrials, small attractors, small chubby/dropper combos, etc. Don't overlook small flies in the calm pools for sippers. Patterns like small ants, griffith's gnat types, and small baetis or parachutes will pick off the finicky late season cutts.

Get out and enjoy this next month and a half! These are truly some of the best fishing weeks ahead of us.

Salmon Released Into Spokane River

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 21:35:23 +0000

Restoring a legacy

In an ongoing effort to re-introduce salmon into the Spokane River, this past Wednesday 150 chinook salmon were ceremonially released into the lower Spokane.

Mike from the shop was able to attend the event and capture some moments of those involved.

See a couple recent articles from the Spokesman for more information about the ceremony:

https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2022/aug/23/150-chinook-salmon-to-be-released-in-spokane-river/

https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2022/aug/24/spokane-tribe-releases-146-chinook-salmon-into-spo/

Carol Evans - Chairwoman of the Spokane Tribal Business Council

Warren Seyler - Spokane Tribe

Coeur d'Alene Tribe

Bill Matt - Spokane Tribe of Indians

Dog Days Update

Sat, 20 Aug 2022 01:14:17 +0000

Fishing

I guess you could say we are in the dog days of summer now. My fishing reports sound like a broken record this time of the year. 20 years of giving fishing reports I can pretty much hit autopilot during the summer with very little changes. But summertime consistency is kinda nice, we all know what to expect.

In case you are wondering and haven't read here are the highlights...

Fish Early.

Most places are fishing slow from noon and on.

Riffles, boulder runs, heads of runs, shade, fast slots are all typically the best locations to find trout.

The Spokane, St. Joe, NF Clearwater, Kelly Creek, and Kootenai are the best August fisheries in our region. Well the best "big name" fisheries.

It's terrestrial season. Don't leave home without hoppers/ants/beetles.

Attractors are good.

Don't overlook small flies (midges, bwos, spinners) for picky late summer risers.

If water temps are over 68 degrees, probably wrap it up for the day.

The evening is the hottest water temps of the day on a river.

The Spokane and Kootenai (and other tailwaters) are generally fine to fish in the evening due to their colder temps.

Don't overthink fishing. It's funny how analytical people make fishing. It's August, enjoy it, standing in a river beats yard work anyday.

Did you Know?

Did you know... that we are an Orvis dealer? Probably not. We haven't published it much. You will probably see more Orvis in the shop over the next year. They have some great stuff.

Did you know... that we sell Costa Sunglasses? Probably not. We also didn't put that out there too much. We have them in-stock and can get whatever you want. Sunglasses, oddly enough, aren't a massive category for us so don't expect tons of styles, but we will always cherrypick the popular ones. We are still big Smith fans, Costa compliments the brand and offers some variety to Smith.

Staff Outings

Kenyon and Jesse bombed down to the South Fork of the Snake for a turn-and-burn trip between guiding and shop time. Both said they had a great time and landed some really nice fish. The South Fork of the Snake never disappoints on scenery either, the guys were impressed to say the least. Bo was able to do some carp fishing last Friday, though it was more about exploring some new water than actual fishing.

IF4 Films with the Spokane Riverkeeper

Don't forget next week is the annual International Fly Fishing Film Festival. Yes, we are fully aware that it is falling in a different time frame. With schedules and other events this was the top choice. This year's film event is hosted by the Spokane Riverkeeper and sponsored by us, Silver Bow. All ticket sales go directly to the Spokane Riverkeeper and their efforts to protect the Spokane. Seating is limited to 90 at the Magic Lantern, tickets ARE SELLING so don't delay if you want to attend. It can be attended virtually too if you can't make it in person. More info here.

Rep Meeting & New Gear

This is the time of the year we are busy writing orders for next year and reviewing new products with industry reps. Next year there will be some new winners from companies like Scott, Orvis, and Loon. More details on those later. Too much to review in one blog! And some we can't mention yet! This next year for most companies will mostly be about making sure they can get caught back up after a two year ass-whooping of supply chain issues and increased demand. More meetings next week with reps so we shall see what other new fly goods will be entering the market.

Spokane River Cleanup

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:58:31 +0000

A good opportunity to get involved!

Sign up today for this year's Spokane River Clean-Up!

Every year, hundreds of people make a huge impact in just a couple of hours during our annual Spokane River Clean-Up. Like last year, we are going to make a big impact for our Spokane River!

You can sign up to clean individually, with your family, or with a group. On Saturday, September 17th 2022, you will go along the Spokane River bank, collect litter, and place it in our designated locations. Like last year, we won’t have a big gathering that morning and we won’t be assigning HUGE groups to clean-up all together. Luckily, the Spokane River is pretty big, so we’ll have plenty of space to work!

Our friends at the Spokane River Forum are holding their annual Valley portion of the Spokane River Clean-Up on September 17th, 2022 - so check them out if you are in the Valley.

Be sure to sign the waiver, and read the helpful handouts on litter safety and what to do if you find a homeless camp (short answer: leave it alone).

The week before the clean-up (September 12th - 15th) stop by The Lands Council offices to pick up your supplies and get more information on where to leave your garbage.

Have any questions? Just send them an email - lbox@landscouncil.org or give them a call at (509) 838-4912.

https://landscouncil.org/events/spokane-river-clean-up

Friday Fly Shop Talk

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 19:20:41 +0000

Summertime consistency.

Where did the week go?? Summer is clipping along! We finally got a small taste of wildfires in the area this week, we knew it was bound to happen. But nothing major yet, let's hope nothing gets out of control this year. Last year if you recall the St. Joe, NF Coeur d'Alene River, and lower parts of the North Fork Clearwater all had fires from early July lightning strikes.

Fishing is, and will be, a morning game everywhere until mid/late September hits. Some fisheries like the Spokane and Kootenai will fish in the evenings because they run cold. Always temp the water if you are unsure and stop fishing (for trout) when it hits 68 degree plus.

Terrestrials are definitely a big part of the menu right now, but so are purple haze, caddis, and other attractors if you are hitting the nearby Idaho rivers. BUT, as the day warms up and you want to continue to catch fish it will be VERY important to run a long dropper, nymph rig, or euro rig through faster/deeper slots if you want to continue to catch fish. Or at least something besides cute fish.

Speaking of euro nymphing, I jammed over to Montana to visit my uncle for a quick 2 day-er on the Madison. Our annual Madison River trip usually means we are going to euro nymph almost exclusively, and only euro nymph very busy sections of the river. It's actually quite fun to see if you can catch fish consistently in heavily pressured waters. Some trips have been banner, some have been so-so. This one was so-so, but some great moments for sure.

The guide crew is getting it done as usual. Fishing is the usual summertime consistency I would call it. Early starts and happy guests! Call Bo Brand at the shop to book a morning of fishing! 509-924-9998

International Fly Fishing Film Festival - August 25th, 2022

The International Fly Fishing Film Festival is back! Our friends the Spokane Riverkeeper will be hosting the IF4 at the Magic Lantern Theater downtown. All ticket sales from the event go to support the Riverkeeper and their efforts to improve the Spokane River.

More info

If you want to see the Outcast 136 DD we have for sale swing by and check it out today! If you can't make it, please contact Bo at the shop 509-924-9998 to schedule a time for him to bring the boat back in. It's all set-up and ready to fish!

Friday Inspiration

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 17:01:00 +0000

Get up earlier!

Early bird gets the fish! And less tubers! This heatwave definitely amps up the tuber hatch, not our favorite hatch of the year by any stretch, but we can't stop it.

Morning hours will be best on pretty much every river. Evenings on some that are colder water like the Spokane or Kootenai, or a tailwater.

Riffles will be Very important right now as well as boulder strewn runss.

Our Spokane River guides said fishing was good this week. As usual, the crew can put you on fish!

Wet wading is in full effect! Sun hoodies too! See us for guard socks and lightweight sun protection clothing.

Some hoot owl restrictions are in place on some Montana streams. See more info https://fwp.mt.gov/news/current-closures-restrictions/waterbody-closures.

We got a BIG re-stock of tying materials this week. Also a BIG Scientific Angler's order and a RISING net and tool order. Oh and more flies. We get shipments daily, I can't keep track of them anymore LOL. Just know we probably have what you are looking for, or something similar! We appreciate you shopping with us.

I was able to sneak some fishing early this week on the Bow River in Calgary with some friends and a Canadian fishing buddy of ours. BIG fish in the Bow. Kinda reminding me of Spokane floating through a city and fishing for wild trout. Pretty neat if you ever find yourself in that area. We tangled into some fish, not tons, but a few good ones were landed. If you want to get out with a guide we used these folks, they were great! https://www.flyfishingbowriver.com

Good reports from the St. Joe, NF Clearwater, and even the NF Coeur d'Alene River still. Thankful we got water this year!

Have a good weekend!

Shop Talk

Sat, 23 Jul 2022 00:48:24 +0000

Fly shop report

Summer is heating up! These warm temps will definitely shift the fishing into the morning and evening timeframes. Don't forget as the heat continues that evening time is actually the warmest water temps so if you are fishing maybe give the water a temp check throughout the afternoon. 68+ degrees is probably time to reel up and enjoy a cold drink. Our local river, the Spokane, does very well in the heat. The lower the river gets, the more cold water from the aquifer influences the temps, note though that above Sullivan bridge the river doesn't receive much water from the aquifer so temps have soared to mid 70's plus already.

The Idaho streams have been great lately, we have not heard of a single bad report. The only negative would be the amount of people on some of the upper stretches of the St. Joe, nothing new there though for mid-July. Hatches have still been pretty good for this far into the season too. What a difference some water makes!

If you are looking to explore less crowded waters don't overlook the feeder streams to many larger rivers. There are many creeks that are a blast this time of the year. Sure you may not hook a 20" beast in the small streams, but it's all about perspective. A 10" cutthroat on a creek no wider than your vehicle is a trophy. Keeping it simple with a box of flies, spool of tippet, floatant and a lightweight fly rod can be an absolute blast. I know I will be doing more creek fishing this year myself. If you need a "creek rod" come see us, we have a plethora of options and some different price points. Matching the rod to the quarry will help the fun factor our bigtime.

Noteworthy Gear this Week

It's kinda hard to list all of the gear shipments we get in throughout the week because there are numerous fill-ins, etc but a few pieces of equipment that we thought were noteworthy are as follows:

Echo Bad Ass Glass 5 weight - We ordered one of these fiberglass sticks on a pre-season last fall and it finally arrived. These fiberglass rods have a bit more punch than your traditional fiberglass sticks, this 5wt is definitely no slouch. We didn't take it to the water, but it certainly was a blast to cast on the lawn, putting smiles on all of us here instantly. For smallies on rivers like the Grande Ronde, or streamer fishing for trout, the fun factor of this rod feels about an 11 out of 10.

Winston Micro Speys - It's been a minute since we stocked some of these trouty two handers, why I have no idea, but we love them and missed having them in-stock. In classic Winston form they are extremely well finished and are incredibly smooth to cast. The 3wt plays the soft hackle very well and still has enough punch to jam out a small sculpzilla or #8 sparkle minnow. The 4wt is a streamer machine.

Shop Talk

The shop has been humming this week. Waves of anglers coming in from various regions to enjoy our local waters. It's peak travel season and the world is back to some level of normal travel again. That being said, don't expect to have rivers to yourself! All of us have enjoyed a little water time at the shop so we are pretty up to speed on what is happening. Even our shop dog Graham got out with Mike on the St. Joe River recently.

If you love a good deal don't forget to check out the shop's front porch as you walk in. Mike is constantly putting items for sale out there. Every week there is something new! All the items are good, we just may have too much in-stock, or they just didn't sell as fast as we needed them to. It's all about that cash flow to keep us moving along!

Mike did a big re-stock with Hareline for all you fly tying fanatics out there, filling up some empty hooks that needed some attention. We also received more Hatch Reels this week, more G.Loomis NRX+ spey rods, re-stocks on Solitude and Rio flies, and NRS rafts (already SOLD OUT by the time I could write this). I'm sure I forgot other shipments.

Need Bugs? We Got Bugs!

Golden stones are still doing great! Ants are really starting to produce too on the Idaho streams. Don't forget beetles, one of my FAVORITE summertime patterns! Hatches are still good, they will wane a bit in the heat so enjoy it while we can.

Guide Talk

Summer guiding has been good! Earlier starts now that the air temps are toasty by noon. The crew said fishing has been good, just takes are getting more subtle. Great water volume for late July! What tactic is best??? Well they pretty much are all working right now, but the dry / dropper is our favorite method!

We are running trips on the Spokane River all summer long as well as the St. Joe with our partner ROW Adventures. Call Bo Brand at the shop if you want to book a trip. He's in Monday through Friday generally 9:30am - 6:00pm. 509-924-9998.

Have a great weekend and stay cool!

The Best Fly Pattern

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 16:39:00 +0000

Fun Fact

I was out fishing the Spokane River this past week with Kenyon. Fishing was typical for a summer day, not red hot, but consistent enough to keep your head in the game.

As we drifted along, usual discussions of tactics, flies, good fishing locations, etc filled the morning hours in between fish.

During the topic of fly patterns Kenyon nonchalantly said...

"The best fly pattern is a good drift."

I'll leave you with the thought.

Happy Friday

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 06:59:12 +0000

Fly-day

Happy Friday! This week flew by, well it did here at least! Not much new to report, fishing is good everywhere.

Afternoon heat will slow some fisheries down, but backcountry streams will probably fish just fine. Early morning hours are becoming the name of the game on rivers like the Spokane or lower stretches of the St. Joe, Coeur d'Alene, etc.

If you head to Idaho, plan on golden stones, pmd's, ants, caddis, and even some drakes lingering around. The Spokane is a caddis game, but dredging a stone will always find fish every day the season is open and fishable. Sometimes the Spokane Redbands, cutts, or browns will even come up for a large chernobyl too.

Other than that... have a great weekend and enjoy some photos from this week around the shop, the Spokane, and animals from Yellowstone National Park back on the 4th!

Summer Start

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 23:23:56 +0000

Get after it

Summer is settling in nicely and fly rods are getting bent on pretty much every body of water nowadays. With healthier flows than in years past we are going into the heat of summer in better shape.

Lots of comments here in the shop lately about the water being too high still... well it's not what we have come to expect anymore with low water years so "normal" summertime spots may not be AS accessible currently. These flows are very, very fishy however. Trust me, they are not too high.

Rivers like the Clark Fork and Yellowstone River are fishing now even after the flooding from last month, I was in Yellowstone over the 4th and all the rivers on the way over were fishable.

We are in that sweet spot right now before the dog days of summer where air temps, water temps, and water levels are all optimum. I suggest you make the time to go fishing NOW!

Outcast Boats For Sale

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 01:05:22 +0000

Boxes of boats!

Summer is in full swing now and rivers are finally on the drop! This will no doubt be a great year for floating well into the summer with all of the rain and water we have received.

If you are interested in hitting the rivers (or lakes) with a new boat we have a few options that just arrived at the shop from Outcast Sporting Gear. Rafts and any inflatable boats have been exceptionally hard to get, some of these we have waited for a year on! If you want one, snatch it up before someone else does!

Outcast Clearwater - 3 1 Available
These one-person, frameless boats are way cool! Not only do they work well on moving water, they are great for many local lakes. The Clearwater weighs in at 35lbs and is perfect for those covert sneaky missions!

Outcast Striker - 2 Sold Out
Don't want to go solo? Bring a buddy along and keep it fun with the Outcast Striker. We have sold a few of these 2-angler rafts and had used one ourselves on a few fishing trips. Super fun! Nimble and easy to transport! No trailer no problem, deflate shove it in your truck bed.

Outcast 136 DD Fishing Raft - 1 Available
A great raft for families, packing more gear, overnight trips and just about any location you can think of!

Outcast Stealth Pro - Sold Out

Highwater Fishing

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 18:50:39 +0000

No boat, no problem

Flows have been bank-to-bank on the Spokane River this spring. I went and checked things out last Friday and despite the river being very high, it was looking pretty good.

There are some big misconceptions I feel about high water fishing. We consistently hear that when the rivers are high they are unfishable, or only fishable with a boat. Sure there is a point when the rivers are unfishable due to extreme flows/flooding, or levels spiked very quickly and rivers are unsafe. But realistically our rivers (Spokane, NF Coeur d'Alene, and St. Joe Rivers) are often more fishable than not during highwater. "High, but fishable" is the term I often use when writing reports.

So let's clear the air a bit about comments we hear at the shop...

"You guys only fish with rafts/boats so you can fish high water easier."
Absolutely not true. I know myself personally, I probably only floated a total of 10-12 days in the past 2.5 years. Shocking right?! I enjoy boat fishing, done it a thousand times, but I also think wade fishing is great and has a different pace to it. Kenyon, Jesse, and Mike also wade fish 90% of the time on their days off. Boats can make covering water easier and we of course endorse owning a boat because it does open up more, but it's not the end-all-be-all. If a boat isn't in the budget, no problem, lots of foot fishing opportunities are there for those that look.

"The water is high and not wadeable"
Why in the hell do you want to get in the river when it's high is my question?! The fish are near the BANKS! FISH THE BANKS!! LITERALLY STAND ON THE BANK AND FISH THE BANK IN FRONT OF YOU. Stand on dry land where it's safe and make a short cast. It's a great way to become a better caster, practicing accurate casts hitting small targets along the shoreline.

"My favorite water isn't fishable"
Well... time to find some new high-water favorite water! Use the opportunity to discover new water or locations. At least for me, part of the allure to fly fishing is exploration and the adventure of checking out new water.

"The rivers are blown out, or have been blown out"
Yes, that could be true for the current time. However, flows can change quickly. In our area the flows can drop and become fishable sooner rather than later. One week might be outta shape and the next there is a window of opportunity.

By all means though, be smart and cautious about high water fishing. Stay safe and stay informed on our Fishing Reports Page.

Highwater fishing will challenge you, but will also help you become a more well rounded angler.

Check out this past blog about Fishing the Margins that contains valuable information on what to look for during highwater.

Spokane River Flows

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 00:07:23 +0000

Healthy flows, healthy fish

Flows have been bank-to-bank on the Spokane River this spring. I went and checked things out last Friday and despite the river being very high, it was looking pretty good.

I don't personally recommend it at these levels, and if you did attempt it please exercise extreme caution. Jesse from the shop has been finding fish in a few areas where fish can escape the main river flows. Those spots are ultra limited though and generally there is zero reason to step foot in the water. The fish are on the banks, but they are very hungry and supercharged right now reports Jesse.

While June is slipping by and we have not been able to run our normal Spokane River guided fly fishing trips, this summer should be a great one for our local fishery. Last year in late June we were facing record heat and considerably less water. Not true for this year! As I write this the daytime temp is in the upper 40's and guess what... It's raining!

When flows do finally settle down we will be here to get you on the river. Call Bo Brand the Silver Bow Guide Manager and he will put you on the schedule!

Monday Motivation

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 21:01:25 +0000

Soon

Rain, rain, and MORE rain! What a rainy spring!

Our rivers are nice and full right now which I know is frustrating since everyone is chomping at the bit to his some moving water. As it is every year, the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River clears out the fastest and has been fishable to some degree most of the spring. We have all been up on the NF finding some fish. Both on foot and via boat.

The St. Joe River will be another couple weeks before we start to see some consistent decline in water volume. It will probably go through a few more fluctuations in levels before then too.

Since both the North Fork Coeur d'Alene and the St. Joe Rivers feed our home water, the Spokane River, it will be the last of the three to be "fishable".

Don't fret though, we will be fishing these rivers before we know it! And with any luck they will be fishing A LOT better this summer!

Raft For Sale - Outcast 136dd

Tue, 31 May 2022 21:42:33 +0000

In-stock. Ready to fish

With the scarcity of available rafts we are happy to say we just received shipment of an Outcast 136 DD fishing raft package.

This raft, while a great "day trip" boat, is excellent for families, big water, overnighters, more gear, and your favorite 4 legged fishing partner!

The Outcast 136 DD spacious design features larger 21" diameter straight tubes that diminish down in the bow and stern to 15.5" creating more interior space and a more nimble feel. This coupled with increased rise on the ends makes an excellent boat for punching through waves.

We are selling this raft as a FULL set-up:

Boat - Outcast 136 DD
Frame - Outcast (NRS) Fishing Frame.
Oars - 3 x Cataract SGG rope wrap shafts w/stops and cutthroat blades
Anchor - Tornado Anchor + rope
Pump - K-Pump 200

Package Price: $8,440 plus sales tax

$220 shipping cost was included in package at no extra charge to you!

Don't let highwater slow you down, this raft will take you everywhere! Call 509-924-9998 to snag this boat while we got it!

Pictured Raft Disclaimer: Items such as seat saddle bags & dry box are NOT included. Oars available are black. Photo is just for example. Call 509-924-9998 for more details.

CDA River Update

Wed, 18 May 2022 18:12:20 +0000

Prospecting high flows

Kenyon and former shop staffer Luke ventured up the North Fork CdA on Monday to check out the latest conditions. Monday's rising water didn't slow down the fishing too much for the guys, but they did have to do some dredging to find fish. The weekend reports included more dry fly fishing (salmonflies, brown drakes) with the steady water, but as we all know, fishing is day-to-day and anglers need to adapt.

The most asked question we get this time of the year... "how high can I go?" Kenyon reported a fair amount of down trees in the roadway above mile 35 so they called it quits after that. Typically by Memorial Day weekend these are mostly cleared up, as this process has already started.

If we get some cooler night temps the river flows should settle back down and stay fishable. High and fishable that is. We had decent snowpack this year and a more traditional runoff time frame so we hopefully will have better flow into the summer. Fingers crossed!

St. Joe River Update

Tue, 17 May 2022 00:28:13 +0000

Spring on the St. Joe

Mike took a drive up the St. Joe River late last to see how things were shaping up for the middle of May. As expected, the water was chilly, but there were a few willing cutthroat where he could find the right water.

With the cooler, mixed weather we have had lately it has been harder to time the right days on the river. Due to the nature of the lower St. Joe River the slower currents below Avery are the best as usual. The further up you go, the colder the water, the less opportunity. This will start to change soon as the weather warms up.

Mike noted a few bugs including salmonflies and like others that have been fishing the Joe there are still some skwallas and March browns as well as some drakes (gray). Even a few yellow sallies started to make an appearance.

Since there were numerous fires above Avery last summer some of the landscape along the riverbanks will look a little different as well as some signage noting the burn areas and potential for flash flooding.

Spring is here and it's time to fish, so if you have an itch to get out it's time to scratch it!

Welcome Jesse Retan

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 19:36:47 +0000

Welcome to the team!

We would like to introduce our newest member of the Silver Bow Fly Shop team, Jesse Retan. I am stoked to have Jesse join the Silver Bow with his enthusiasm and love for all things fly fishing, conservation, and the outdoors.

If you have followed our social media over the years you probably have seen a photo or two of Jesse as he is a regular fishing partner of all of us at the shop. Jesse will be working both in the shop to assist you with your gear and fly needs, as well as filling in on the guide team. His knowledge of the Spokane River runs deep and anyone that is fortunate to spend a day with him on the water will hopefully walk away with a lot more knowledge and appreciation for our hometown fishery. Jesse is one fishy guy, and we mean that in a good way!

Please help us make Jesse feel welcome next time you're in the shop!

Some words by Jesse on his background in the fly fishing community and other passions.

Born in Spokane Washington. Grew up on a little farm in the shrub steppe and ponderosa west of Cheney. Pretty classic, hay pastures, cows and dirt roads.

My grandfather Art Retan was an avid fly angler and entomologist. He cut his teeth in the Sierra foothills. When he moved the family up to Pullman he brought his passion for fly fishing with him. My passion for fly fishing came when I inherited all of his gear in 2010. He was passionate about fly tying, bamboo rods, and clicker reels. All the old classics, Pfluegers and Fenwicks, and some Hardy Marquis' too.

I don't have lifelong memories of fly fishing, I did grow up in the woods though. Spending whole springs and summers camping in a converted bus with my dad. I grew up gear fishing small streams on camping trips, as well as dunking worms under bobbers at the local lakes.

I caught my first fish on a fly rod at Amber Lake somewhere around spring 2011. I then later upgraded some gear and fell in love with the Spokane River around 2012. I loved the challenge and difficulty of the Spokane and found myself coming into Silver Bow often to inquire on why I sucked!

The shop was so helpful but gave me just the right amount of info "not too much" to put me on a path to figure things out. If I remember correctly Bo was the first person to ever really help me. And later grew a friendship with Kenyon and everyone at the shop. The shop to me was like a family and aligned with what I valued. Excellent service, knowledge, experience and leadership in being stewards of the Spokane river.

This really started an indescribable passion that has led me to where I'm at today. As I described previously I spent my childhood outside and was intrigued by nature. As a kid I collected bones, wood, rocks, nests and bugs and really whatever I could find outside. Well, I still do that! In college at Peninsula CC and EWU I opted for natural science courses like geology, botany, hydrology, environmental science and wetland science. Although I then moved away from a biology degree to a Bachelors of Fine arts, emphasis in painting and drawing from EWU in 2013. Another passion of mine.

I am a naturalist at heart and I am passionate about preserving wild places with wild critters.

This path has led me to where I am today. I love to be out on the water fly rod in hand. I'd say my absolute favorite time of the year is summer. Kind of a cliche answer but it is tough to beat wet wading in shorts and a T-shirt. Although I love all the seasons, winter solitude, swinging flies, and the colors and changes of spring and fall.

I don't know if I have an absolute favorite method to fish, I will literally do it all. I love headhunting picky soft dry fly eaters with long lines and small flies. I love streamer eats, foam eats, and dropper eats. I’ll nymph with a bobber, a euro stick, doesn’t matter to me. I love swinging flies with a two hand rod for trout or stealhead, dry line or heavy sink tip. I’ll dab carp in a mud slough, I just love the challenge of it all!

For me that's been part of my own evolution as an angler, expanding my knowledge of tactics and evolving my abilities to catch different species.

One challenge I have not yet encountered is any saltwater adventures to catch species like permit, GT and bonefish. Definitely a goal of mine is to experience this challenge and have an opportunity to experience these species and the world they live in.

Another passion of mine is soccer. I’ve played since I was 4 and played competitively at the youth level for Spokane Shadow. I played at Peninsula college, Whitworth University and beyond that in semi professional PDL and NPSL leagues. I Have been coaching and teaching the game locally for Spokane Sounders for just under 10 years. I coach youth ECNL boys and GA girls teams and I am the Director for Player Development. I am an avid Arsenal supporter and really the only thing I take as seriously as fishing is soccer!

love life in the Northwest. If fishing or soccer isn't happening I just want to be outside on a run or on the bike on any of the incredible trails we have. I am proud to call Spokane home and I am so happy and thankful for the opportunity to join the Silver Bow crew.

Recent Snow Pack Addition

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 18:07:55 +0000

Keep it coming!

As much as everyone (including us) wants more beautiful spring weather, these recent rain storms and cool weather have helped pack up some late season snowpack across the region.

Washington, Idaho, and Montana now all three have a lot more areas showing green on the Snotel Maps and even some blue! There are definitely pockets that need some more and hopefully we can get that over this next week everywhere.

This time of the year expect to see some bumps in river flows, but if temperatures (in particular nighttime temps) cool off the rivers will drop quickly and/or not get too far out of hand.

Keep the snow dance going!

Spring Motivation

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 19:59:28 +0000

Go.Fishing

Sometimes we all need a little motivation! Spring is such a great time to be on the water.

Enjoy this video we helped with in 2016 while fishing the St. Joe River.

It's spring time, go fishing!

Farquhar Trip Report

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 23:58:57 +0000

Far, far, away...

Eleven time zones and nearly 10,000 miles later a group of us from the small city of Spokane, WA found ourselves on a remote atoll in the Indian Ocean. I've been on some long plane rides into remote areas before... but this one certainly topped the list by far!

Like most traveling anglers the past couple years have been plagued with reschedules and cancellations, but luckily our third attempt at reaching Farquhar was a success. Farquhar is situated north of Madagascar, and due east of Tanzania off the coast of Africa. This worldclass saltwater fly fishing destination is home to an incredible array of fish including the giant trevally (GT), a species known to fly anglers for it's voracious appetite and made more famous on a Blue Planet television special for it's taste in birds!

Check out this crazy video of giant trevally in Farquhar eating birds, and no, unfortunately we did not see the GT's eating birds while we were there.

Our group was a mix of new through experienced saltwater anglers, and Farquhar was a wonderful place for both. New saltwater anglers were awarded plentiful shots at a variety of species and for experienced bug throwers a chance at more challenging species such as trigger fish or finicky Indo Pacific permit.

While we were not fortunate enough to get any permit to hand, two in our group landed a couple trophy yellow margin triggers. I've spent my fair share of days in the salt and overlooked triggers in the past. I can assure you, from here on out I will never pass the opportunity to fish for these tricky buggers. Trigger fishing will keep your skills sharp that's for sure!

GT's lived up to their reputation and gave all of us a run for their money. From their fly crushing hits, to blistering runs, and tackle busting strength, the giant trevally is one intense fish from start to finish. Tangling into a GT means you are in for a ride so when you do hook one, hold on! And watch your fingers as I have learned! I'm glad to say I still have all 10 of my fingers after the line wrapped around one of them LOL.

Other species included classics like bonefish, but also a plethora of fish that we don't get to see in other locations such as bumphead parrot fish, napoleon wrasse, and all sorts of reef species like bohar snappers, African marble groupers, and blue spangled emperors to mention a few.

While Farquhar is not the easiest place on the planet to get to from Spokane, the destination is easily one of the most unique and amazing fisheries we have had the privilege to travel to. The staff, lodging, and small crew that maintain the atoll welcomed us and made for a wonderful experience.

Until next time!

Spring Fishing Is Underway

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 22:26:29 +0000

Spring fly flinging

Spring fishing is underway around the region. Whether you are looking to take advantage of the early season lakes, or wanting to hit moving water, there is now plenty of opportunity to make a trip to some viable water.

I'd highly recommend a day on the water soon if you can fit it into your schedule. After a long winter it will do good for your mental health!

Dry fly fishing is now in full swing on all rivers (except the Spokane, it is closed). Western trout rivers right now have bwo's, March browns, nemoura, and skwala stones all hatching depending on the day/temps.

You will probably need to start your day off with some nymping or streamer fishing (your preference). As temps warm up towards noon time, then a switch can be made to dries.

Springtime does mean changing water and weather so it pays to keep tabs on both before you head out.

Need bugs? Need a new rod? Need a new line? Need motivation? Come see us, 7 days a week.

Spokane River Public Cleanup Dates

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 16:46:12 +0000

Get Up, Get Out Public Clean Up

It's simple. Spokane River Forum / Spokane River Keeper provide all the supplies and disposal, you provide the people power. Check out our public event schedule below.

The public kickoff fist event is April 23rd, 2022 at 10:00 AM. Register at the link below.

April 23 (Saturday) - People's Park

April 23 (Saturday) - Mission Park

June 25 (Saturday) - University District/Downtown

June 25 (Saturday) - Misson Park

September 17 (Saturday) - Spokane River Valley Clean Up

Sign Up Here!

If you can't make the public events and have a group of volunteers, you can request a private or DIY litter cleanup event.
Private Group or DIY Here!

Thanks to our litter program sponsor, Northwest Renewables, for supporting our Get Up, Get Out River Clean Up Event and our litter cleanup program.

In a cooperative partnership, Spokane Riverkeeper and Spokane River Forum work together to cleanup the Spokane River.

New Sage R8 CORE Rods

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 20:55:06 +0000

Made to Fish, Not Just to Cast

We are excited to announce the New Sage R8 CORE fly rods are now in-stock. Filling the shoes of the uber popular Sage X fly rod series is no easy task but initial impressions of the R8 CORE are positive.

The R8 CORE initial lineup includes all the usual weaponry with more sizes and lengths in the works.

Sage Fly Rod Designer, Paul Schmierer, sums up their philosophy for R8 CORE best, "You shouldn’t be on a beautiful river focused on the technology that is in your rod. You shouldn't be fighting your rod. You should be focused on catching a fish or on having a good time or on where you are."

Swing by and give us a test cast and let us know what you think!

In-stock and ready to fish!

Pure Graphite
The advanced, leading-edge material behind R8 enables us to shape a rod with a stiffer, stronger backbone but a more sensitive tip and more connected feel. The secret is twofold. First, a proprietary aerospace composite with a greater hoop strength enables us to dimensionally grow taper diameter more quickly from the tip—while a nano-sintered resin application increases axial resilience and allows us to pack more fiber into the blank, resulting in that true two-way connection from hand to fly and back for greater feel, flow and control.

Effortless Energy Transfer
Elongated energy transfer shifts the sweet spot closer to the hand creating a more natural extension of your arm for greater range, quicker reactivity and less wasted effort.

New Axial Fiber Formulation
Advanced nano-sintered resin application and a more resilient axial fiber allow us to re-profile the dimensional taper to get thicker quicker from tip to butt - resulting in better energy transfer and greater feel. Simply put - a better and more efficient "wiring" of energy.

New Circumferential Hoop Fiber
Advanced hoop fibers hold blank in optimal cylindrical shape creating greater circumferential strength - continuously maintaining the inherent blank strength while actively engaged or under tension.

Abel ROVE Reels Have Arrived

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 21:41:43 +0000

New and noteworthy

The New Abel ROVE Reels just landed at the shop. These large capacity fly reels feature a proven cork disc drag similar to the Abel Super Series which were recently discontinued.

This new simple drag should be a worth system for every type of fly fishing application whether it be fresh, salt, or spey. The ROVE is built in 4 sizes with our first 2 just arriving. Lead time for other custom colors is currently 5 months.

Swing by and check 'em out if you are in the market for a high capacity, super reliable fly reel!

SFTU Snake River Dam Event

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 21:51:58 +0000

Imagine a free-flowing Snake River

An evening with Trout Unlimited President and CEO Chris Wood: Seizing our opportunity to invest in the Pacific Northwest, take down the lower four Snake River dams and recover salmon and steelhead.

Chris will lead a dialog about dams on the Snake River, right here in Spokane! Don’t miss this event.

This event is FREE - More info here

Patagonia 2022 Trip Wrap Up

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 19:19:57 +0000

Land of trout and great scenery

We recently got back from our third hosted trip down to Las Pampas Lodge located in the heart of the Rio Pico Region. This trout-filled meca is nearly 7,000 miles away from our hometown of Spokane, WA and is littered with various waterways and lakes of all sizes and shapes, some with rainbows and browns, and others with large brook trout. It truly is a trout anglers paradise.

For half of our crew this trip was their first experience with Argentine fishing and overall the trout were welcoming to our arrival. Mixed weather and wind made fishing "off" at times, but luckily there was always a point in the day that the fishing kicked-on.

Dry fly fishing on the rivers was most consistent with beetles this time around and on a couple of warmer days hoppers could do the trick. Hatches are sparse during the late Patagonian summer in the Las Pampas region, but we did experience some mayflies (a similar variety to our PMD's) and caddis. Trout were keyed in on them anytime they hatched and it paid to deliver the right cast and presentation with matching pattern. Trout-are-trout and will still give you the middle fin no matter how little pressure they receive if they don't like your style!

A fun way to hunt big fish even on the sunny days was a floating line and a sparkle minnow style streamer. The combo of the flash and movement makes it hard for those trout to resist!

The lakes of the Rio Pico region offer unique opportunities for very large trout. Most of the lakes hold both rainbows and browns, some that could easily stretch to nearly 30" and one particular lake north of the lodge holds trophy brook trout. Everyone had at least one day on a lake, while others took advantage of a second lake day and tried their luck at the large brook trout.

A big thanks to the Las Pampas Lodge crew and guides for the warm hospitality. If you ever get the chance to visit this wonderful place you will quickly feel like part of the family and odds are will be back for many more adventures with the team.

Another thanks to the anglers that joined me on this journey down south. Getting to a location like Patagonia, especially as we exit the pandemic, was no easy feat and I appreciate everyone's efforts and laid back attitude as we all learned a few travel trips along the way when venturing out of the country during COVID times. Overall the process was smooth and if anyone has questions please shoot us a message and we can help out!

Until next time Patagonia!

Spokane River Proposed Protection Zones

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 19:59:02 +0000

Off limits?

January 10th, 2022 the Spokane City Council had discussion on Proposed Protection of Public Lands Ordinance that effects the Spokane River and Hangman Creek shorelines.

The coucil is voting on final action on both the ordinace and resolution proposed for March 14, 2022.

For more information contact the Office of Council Member Lori Kinnear. Contact Name: Giacobbe Byrd; (509) 625-6715 or gbyrd@spokanecity.org

Proposed protected land zones

(1) The south bank abutting and extending 50 feet from the Spokane River between Mission Street Bridge and Greene Street Bridge, excluding any trails or designated footpaths.

(2) The north and south banks abutting and extending 50 feet from the Spokane River between Monroe Street Bridge and Sandifur Bridge, excluding any trails or designated footpaths.

To read the councils March 14th proposal you can download the pdf below.

Designation of Protected Zones Ordinance & Riparian Rehabilitation Resolution
urbdev-agenda-2022-02-14.pdf
Size: 1.4 MB

The Spokesman-Review
- Off limits? Proposal would restrict access to damaged areas along Spokane River.

Winter Wonderland

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 00:13:36 +0000

Bring snowshoes

It hasn't felt like mid February as of late, but a trip to the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River (or St. Joe River) and you will soon realize it is still very early in the fishing season!

Kenyon and I felt inspired to see what was happening across the border with the hint of spring in the air so we ventured across to the mountains of North Idaho.

Air temps were very pleasant, to the point where you could easily not have worn a jacket a good portion of the day. However, one look along the roadside, or riverbanks, would indicate that we are very much still in the depths of winter. With lots of low elevation snow to be had still parking spots and access to the river is and will be limited for sometime.

That being said, the craftier you are and the more willing you are to "post-hole" through the snow, the more opportunity you will have.

Fishing for the next few weeks will predominantly remain streamer and nymphing tactics with cold water temps in the 30's. Midges were active in the midday sun and a few cutthroat could be found quietly feeding on the surface in the calm water of the lower river. We have a good month before any real nemoura or skwala activity gets going, but then again if these temps continue on this trend it will happen sooner rather than later.

A few hours of fishing is better than no hours, cure your cabin fever and enjoy some time on the water!

2022 Turneffe Trip Report

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 20:42:53 +0000

Bo knows, Bo goes

Silver Bow guide manager Bo Brand recently returned from another great trip down to Turneffe Flats Lodge. Bo and I took a group down there in 2017 and he was fortunate enough to have another wonderful group of folks want to travel down there again. This group was a mix of anglers and non-angling spouses. Turneffe Flats Lodge is a wonderful place for both with their ability to take non-anglers out snorkeling and diving. While we certainly don't know a darn thing about diving or snorkeling, Keith from our group said the diving was absolutely fantastic and had rave reviews. More photos from Keith's diving adventure can be found - here.

Bo's Trip Report

Day 1 - My wife and I, along with Peggy and Keith arrive in Belize City about 24 hours before departing to Turneffe Atoll with sunny weather, scattered thunderstorms and cold Belikin.

Day 2 - More cold Belikin and waiting for Mike, Becky, Tom and Rob to arrive. We took a slight detour to Honduras, due to a thunderstorm and an aerial traffic jam at Belize International Airport. Everyone arrived safely and we got a late start to the 90 minute boat ride to Turneffe Flats Lodge.

Day 3 - First day of fishing. Weather 83 degrees and light winds. My fishing partner Peggy and I met our guide John on the deck of the main lodge. We immediately headed to the south end of the atoll to look for Permit. John poled the boat all day long with me and Pegggy taking turns on the bow every half hour or after a Permit shot. A few permit were seen, and I butchered a good shot at one, but none were caught. Peggy landed two nice sized Bonefish on her first real day of saltwater fly fishing. The rest of the group had similar success. It was a great first day!

Day 4-8 - The weather changed a bit. Wind from the north makes most flats fishing a little challenging. The wind, scattered clouds and the occasional rain storm made the search for Permit sometimes impossible, but we took what mother nature gave us. When the light was right we searched for Permit. In the worst rain and clouds we waded the outer reef for tailing bones and triggerfish. We managed to sneak up on a small school of tarpon. (Or did they sneak up on us?) With the cloud cover I never got a shot at the fish. With only a few hours left to fish for the week John took us to his secret Snook cove. I had never caught a Snook before. What a blast! Two nice snook caught in 5 minutes, and then the three big boys showed up and taught me a little lesson about bowing to large rising fish. Time to go.

All in all it was a great trip back to Turneffe Flats Lodge. The guides and staff are all top of the line. The food and drinks were as gourmet as one could ask for. The ones who didn't fish raved about diving and snorkeling.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this such an enjoyable trip! I'm working on the next one already.

If your interested on coming along on a future hosted trip give us a at 509-924-9998

Snowpack Report - Jan Update

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 20:08:21 +0000

So far so good...

The last few weeks around Spokane haven't seen much in the way of snowfall, but the mountains are still staying strong with good snowpack.

Winter isn't over yet, so fingers crossed it continues!

Last year summer was plagued with drought, river closures, extreme heat, fires, and smoke. By August it was pretty challenging to find cold moving water to fish.

I don't have a forecast for this summer, my crystal ball doesn't work that well, but I hope it isn't a repeat of last year! Currently it is not shaping up that way.

My advice for anglers planning summertime adventures... plan them earlier in the summer, rather than later! June is great, early July is typically great, by late July the fishing is generally slow across the west.

Here's the latest snotel reports:

Winter Opportunities

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 23:03:12 +0000

Wintertime water time

Windows of opportunity seem to be fairly frequent this past week or so. Temps in the upper 30's and little to now wind make a great combo to get out and try some winter fly fishing.

5 Keys to winter success in our region:

1 - Fish the slowest, deepest water.
Trout are cold blooded creatures and with the cold comes slower metabolisms. They won't be reacting too quickly to chase flies down.

2 - Try hot bead or "hot spot" flies.
A little pop of color goes a long ways during the winter. Perhaps a fish thinks it's an egg, who knows (and who cares!)... but they work well in winter.

3 - Get your flies deep, keep them deep.
This goes along with the first part about fishing slow/deep water. Since there isn't much for insect activity and the trout's metabolism is slow, you will need to get down to them.

3 - Watch for subtle strikes.
If you are indicator fishing watch for the most subtle of takes. If you are streamer fishing, feel for very light (or drawn out) takes. More often, trout aren't as aggressive in the cold.

3 - Take it for what it is.
If you get skunked, that's the way it goes! Winter fishing has its challenges. Enjoy the day and remember spring fishing is around the corner!

Riversmith River Quiver In-Stock

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 20:11:24 +0000

Organized, rigged, and protected!

If you are in-need of secure and safe fly rod storage for your vehicle we have the popular Riversmith River Quiver fly rod racks back in-stock.

Over the last handful of years exterior fly rod storage racks have become extremely popular, freeing up interior space, keeping rods from breakage, and allowing anglers to arrive at the river fully rigged.

We have had a few shipments of the Riversmith at the shop and just received another batch of the popular configurations. If you are in the market come by and check them out!

We wanted to give you a heads up that Riversmith are increasing prices
effective February 1, 2022.

Current stock:

Size Color 2021 Price 2022 Price ** Quantity

2 Banger Rod Holder Silver $429.99 ** 4

2 Banger Rod Holder Black $489.99 ** 1

4 Banger Rod Holder Black $719.99 ** 1

4 Banger Rod Holder - Extended
Length 11' 4" - Spey and Euro Rods Silver $759.99 ** 1

** Price increase effective February 1, 2022

Understated and sleek exterior design

Versatile mounting system

Aerodynamic and quiet

Lightweight and easy to install

Able to withstand shock, wind and impact loads

The most secure rear entry molded reel box fly rod holder availablec

Designed, assembled, and shipped from Boulder, Colorado

River Quiver - 2 Banger

River Quiver - 2 Banger Black

River Quiver 4 Banger - Extended

2022 F3T - Fly Fishing Film Tour

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 23:24:37 +0000

Get out of the snow and cold and into fun!

Get out of the snow and cold this January 25th for the annual The F3T! Discounted tickets available at the Silver Bow.

Spend $5 or more at the Silver Bow when purchasing your F3T tickets here to enter for a chance to win a YETI Loadout Gobox 30!

Please remember to check the Bing Crosby Theater latest Covid Policies before purchasing tickets.

Date - Tuesday, January 25th, 2022

Location - Bing Crosby Theater

Time - Show 7:30 PM

Cost - $18.00 at the Silver Bow Fly Shop.

$20.00 online or door (Online or door tickets does not enter you into Yetti raffle).
https://www.bingcrosbytheater.com/events/1907/2022-fly-fishing-film-tour

Outcast OSG Striker Raft Available

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 19:43:18 +0000

To boldly go where no angler has gone before.

Imagine yourself here...

The Outcast Stiker can help make it possible this season! These 2 person rafts are extremely hard to come by and we have 1 in-stock right now! We literally have waited a year to get it due to supply chain issues.

The Outcast Striker is super fun, packs down very small, weighs only 102lbs, and is great on a variety of rivers, including hard to access waters where a bigger raft (or trailer) can’t go!

What's really neat about this particular raft is the somewhat frameless design. You have a couple sets of crossbars and a pair of oar towers, that's it! The crossbars and oar towers are quickly removed and the boat can be deflated and rolled up to pack into an SUV, van, truck, etc, no need for a trailer!

https://www.silverbowflyshop.com/outcast-osg-striker-raft/

Day	Date	Time
Wednesday	December 3, 2025	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - Sold Out

Wednesday	January 7, 2026	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - Sold Out
Wednesday	January 28, 2026	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - Sold Out
Wednesday	February 11, 2026	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - Sold Out
Wednesday	February 25, 2026	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - Sold Out

Day	Date	Time
Wednesday	January 21, 2026	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - SOLD OUT
Wednesday	January 22, 2026	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - SOLD OUT

Day	Date	Time
Wednesday	February 4, 2026	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - SOLD OUT
Wednesday	February 5, 2026	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - 1 SPOT LEFT

Day	Date	Time
Wednesday	December 4, 2024	6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out

Wednesday	January 15, 2025	6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out
Wednesday	February 5, 2025	6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out
Wednesday	February 12, 2025	6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out
Wednesday	February 26, 2025	6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out
Wednesday	March 5, 2025	6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Sold Out

Day	Date	Time
Wednesday	January 3, 2024	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Wednesday	February 7, 2024	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - 2 SPOTS
Wednesday	March 6, 2024	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - 4 SPOTS	Cancelled

Day	Date	Time
Wednesday	December 6, 2023	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Wednesday	January 3, 2024	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Wednesday	February 7, 2024	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Wednesday	March 6, 2024	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm	Cancelled

Day	Date	Time
Wednesday	February 1, 2023	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm	Sold Out
Wednesday	February 15, 2023	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Day	Date	Time
Wednesday	January 4, 2023	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm	Sold Out
Wednesday	February 1, 2023	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Wednesday	February 15, 2023	5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Size	Color	2021 Price	2022 Price **	Quantity
2 Banger Rod Holder	Silver	$429.99	**	4
2 Banger Rod Holder	Black	$489.99	**	1
4 Banger Rod Holder	Black	$719.99	**	1
4 Banger Rod Holder - Extended Length 11' 4" - Spey and Euro Rods	Silver	$759.99	**	1