Big Lost River, August 17th, 2024

Big Lost River

The best of times to fish Big Lost River below Mackay Dam have begun and should last well into the fall season. Flow out of the dam is a bit above 300 cfs, so wading is not difficult and continues in a good amount on downstream to the Leslie township. Access is plentiful below the dam, around the campground, and the IDF&G access. Caddis, isoperla stonefly, and terrestrial insect activities bring fish up to make top water fishing very good. Further on downstream where the river flows through private land there is access at bridges and areas of state and BLM land. Here it is important while fishing to stay within the high water mark.