Still Waters
STILL WATERS
ReportOCT 7 — 14, 2026
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Flow
—CFS
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Water Temp
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Weather
35–74°F
Sunny
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Reported By
Bruce Staples
On the water
Cooling water temperatures are improving fishing on Idaho's irrigation reservoirs as October progresses, though Chesterfield Reservoir remains off-limits due to an active blue-green algae mat. Sunny skies and calm winds are forecast through the week, with highs near 74°F and overnight lows dipping to the mid-30s.
From the ShopBruce Staples · October 7, 2026
Personnel from Idaho Fish and Game's hatcheries in the Southeast Region will be releasing over 80,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout at various locations during October.
Chesterfield Reservoir is the latest still water to be influenced by a blue-green algae mat. IDF&G and other agencies are advising that its waters be avoided.
Fishing on irrigation reservoirs will improve because of cooling waters. On still waters without algae mat contamination, midge pupa will be the primary pattern for success — the key is finding the taking depth.
Fish salvage regulations are being applied to a few southern Idaho irrigation reservoirs that are being drained down to the extreme.
What's Working — Hot Flies
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Size | Activity | Prime Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midge (Chironomid) Pupa | #18–22 | All day; primary pattern | Midday through afternoon |
| Midge (Chironomid) Adult | #20–24 | Light surface activity | Warmest part of afternoon |
| Midge (Chironomid) Larva | #18–22 | Secondary; near bottom | Morning |
Best Time Window
- MIDDAY TO EARLY AFTERNOON: Prime window for midge pupa activity as water temperatures peak; focus on suspended presentations at the taking depth
- MORNING: Work midge larva and pupa patterns near the bottom before the water warms and fish begin to rise in the column
- LATE AFTERNOON: Stocked rainbow trout are most aggressive in the last hour of light; try a balanced leech under an indicator for a change of pace
Guide's Tip
From the benchOn October still waters, finding the taking depth is everything — midge pupa can be suspended anywhere from just off the bottom to within a foot of the surface. Start deep and work your indicator up in small increments until you connect. Avoid Chesterfield Reservoir entirely until IDF&G lifts the blue-green algae advisory. Check IDF&G's website for the latest stocking schedules and any updated salvage-regulation reservoirs before you head out.
Main Species
Rainbow Trout
Brook Trout
Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout
