Snake River Basin
About the Snake River Basin
The Snake River Basin flows through the heart of the Tetons and Jackson Hole, offering one of the most scenic angling experiences on the planet. This drainage is the stronghold of the unique Fine-Spotted Cutthroat Trout, a native species known for its willingness to rise to dry flies.
Key Sections
- Grand Teton National Park: The river braids through the park, offering spectacular views and excellent drift boat fishing.
- South Park to West Table: The classic whitewater canyon stretch that mixes fun rapids with great fishing.
- Tributaries: The Gros Ventre, Hoback, and Greys Rivers offer intimate wading experiences for Cutthroat.
Strategy: The Cut Bank Game
The Snake is a "structure" fishery.
- Cut Banks: Anglers float swiftly past undercut banks, casting large foam attractors (Chernobyl Ants, Hoppers) tight to the edge.
- Fine-Spotted Cutthroat: These natives are aggressive surface feeders. Unlike picky tailwater trout, they reward accurate casting and good drifts with confident takes.
- Runoff: The Snake is a freestone system. It typically blows out with snowmelt in May/June and drops into prime shape by early July.
Fly Fishing Rivers in the Snake River Basin
Buffalo Fork - Jackson Hole
Wyoming
Flat Creek - Above Cache Creek (Jackson Hole)
Wyoming
Flat Creek - Below Cache Creek (Jackson)
Wyoming
Greys River
Wyoming
Gros Ventre River - Kelly to Moose
Wyoming
Hoback River - Granite Creek to Snake
Wyoming
Pacific Creek
Wyoming
Salt River
Wyoming
Snake River - Canyon
Wyoming
Snake River - Below Flat Creek
Wyoming
Snake River - Jackson Lake
Wyoming
Snake River - Moose
Wyoming
Snake River - Near Moran
Wyoming
Snake River - Flagg Ranch
Wyoming
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best fly fishing rivers in the Snake River Basin?
The Fly Fishing Gros Ventre River – Kelly to Moose is widely considered the crown jewel of the Snake River Basin, but the area offers many excellent options. Be sure to explore the various tributaries and sections listed in our guide for diverse experiences.
When is the best time to fly fish in the Snake River Basin?
While summer (June-September) offers the most consistent dry fly action, the Snake River Basin has productive fishing year-round. Fall brings aggressive brown trout and excellent streamer fishing, while spring sees important hatches like Blue Winged Olives. Winter tailwater fisheries can also be excellent.
What fish species can I catch in the Snake River Basin?
Anglers can primarily target Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout, with Cutthroat Trout and Brook Trout available in higher elevation streams. Some waters also hold Mountain Whitefish and other species.
