Yellowstone Park, August 15th, 2023

Meadow Section on Fall River in Yellowstone Park

Fall River in Idaho appears mostly as a riffle and run stream occupying a canyon. However, in Yellowstone Park it is of much different character. Here are stair-step meadow reaches punctuated by runs through thick forests and the most beautiful waterfalls anywhere. Some of the best fishing in Fall River Basin resides here, but access is not always easy. Two of the easiest access points are off the Ashton-Flagg Road. The nearest to Idaho of these is through turning off at the Loon Lake-Fish Lake Road and following it to the wilderness area boundary. From here a walk of about a mile takes one to the Park’s south boundary. A short connector trail into the Park connects to the South Boundary Trail where a decision must be made on where to fish: the meadow reach upstream or the same downstream. Making such a selection is more difficult because forested portions are present where overhead cover means more active fish but tougher casting conditions. Long, drag free floats of terrestrial insect and traditional attractor patterns work best in these portions. The other relatively easy access to Fall River is further east of the Ashton-Flagg Road. This is the Terrace Falls Trail with its short walk to the river. From here the visiting fly fisher should go upstream to enjoy some classic riffle and run water where caddis and traditional attractor patterns bring fishing success. Bring a camera as this part of the river features some unique cascades and waterfalls.