Learning the Swing: Fly Fishing in Lewiston, Idaho

Early mornings, longer nights, sleeping in a truck, consistent suspense, good friends, and better memories is what the past three days were for Drew and me when we visited Lewiston, Idaho in hopes of hooking into a big steelhead.

I’ve always wanted to chase steelhead because it has such a passionate and devoted following. I figured it was time to begin the lifelong process of learning every aspect about their habits and tactics and really get into the- lifestyle- I almost said sport, but it’s more than that. It’s truly a lifestyle.

First Impressions When Learning to Swing Flies

My first experience? Addicting. If it wasn't for the knowledgeable employees in the fly fishing and fishing department at Lewiston's North 40 store, we would have left without a single grab.

We fished everything from swinging colorful flies through gorgeous holes to trolling lighted plugs with gobs of anise scent into the night. One element that made a huge difference when it came to night trolling was the anise scent on our lighted plugs. It’s safe to say that if I plan on doing any trolling in Lewiston, or anywhere else really, I won’t go without at least one bottle of anise scent.

A solid takeaway from my first trip? Chase the mornings. I noticed within the first hour of fishing is that mornings are key. It’s crucial for any fisherman to be up before sunrise, and fish into the day.

Swinging flies was tough for us with the combination of hot weather and water fluctuations. Hot weather forced the steelhead to remain sluggish and seek cooler holding areas mid-day. Also, the rising and lowering of water results in the fish becoming "lockjawed", or not wanting to eat anything except during early mornings and evenings.

What Flies Did We Swing, and How Did it End?

The flies I swung were Gerath's Steelhead Addiction #4, Rowell's Steel Hammer Purple #5, and Deuce Wigalo Purple. I had heard that flash makes a big difference on bright sunny days for steelhead, so I decided to use flies that consisted of silver flashabou with bright reds and pinks.

We finally hooked a few the second night from 8:15 to 9:45 pm trolling lighted plugs between the train trestle and memorial bridge in 60 degree water at 17 feet deep.

Right when it was picking up, was the about the same time we had to pack up and make the trek home. Once the trip was all said and done, Drew and I were both wishing we had one more day to chase what the Clearwater has to offer.

I am absolutely making another trip to Lewiston to have another run at these fish. Thanks for the pointers, I encourage anyone the LEAST bit interested- get in and ask a few questions- You won’t regret it.