Salt River Fishing Forecast
The Salt River anchors Wyoming trout culture for anglers who want a forecast that respects real hydrology—not a generic “fish today” badge. Species mix centers on snake river cutthroat trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout, with tactics shifting from weighted nymphs in cold water to dries and terrestrials as afternoons warm during April through October. Because it is not a manicured park stretch, the Salt River rewards map work, respectful access, and leaders sized for the clarity you will actually see. USGS gauge 13027500 tracks live flow and temperature for planning wade or float days.
Spring-fed Salt River is flowing at 363 CFS CFS with surface temps near 58°F°F — 7/10 today. Top pick: a LaFontaine's Deep Pupa.
Open year-round (check section regs)
Generally open year-round. Check WGFD regs for cutthroat-specific rules
Forecast and on-page guide updated September 8, 2026 (UTC). Open the app for hourly conditions.
Today's Fishing Conditions
Good
Updated 8:05 PM
58°F
363 CFS
4 AM - 6 AM
LaFontaine's Deep Pupa
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September Hatches
BWO
Mayfly
Spring and fall BWO fishing. Overcast days.
Caddis
Caddis
Evening caddis prolific. Summer staple.
Hopper
Terrestrial
Terrestrial season excellent in meadow sections.
September Fishing Tactics
Primary Targets
Recommended Tactics
Excellent fall fishing. Browns aggressive.
Year-Round Fishing Guide
| Month | Water Temp | Tactics |
|---|---|---|
| January | 32-38°F | Deep nymphing, Midges, Streamers |
| February | 33-40°F | Midges, Small nymphs, Deep pools |
| March | 36-45°F | BWO dries, Streamers, Early stonefly nymphs |
| April | 40-50°F | Skwala dries, BWO patterns, Streamers |
| May | 45-55°F | Mother's Day Caddis, Nymphing, Streamers |
| June | 50-60°F | Salmonfly dries, Golden Stones, PMDs |
| July | 55-68°F | PMDs, Hoppers, Caddis, Attractor dries |
| August | 55-70°F | Hoppers, Tricos, PMDs, Terrestrials |
| September(Now) | 48-58°F | BWOs, Streamers, Hoppers |
| October | 40-50°F | Streamers, BWOs, Egg patterns |
| November | 35-42°F | Streamers, Deep nymphs, Egg patterns |
| December | 32-38°F | Deep nymphs, Midges, Slow presentations |
Quick Facts
Snake River Cutthroat Trout, Brown Trout, and Rainbow Trout
freestone
48°F - 58°F
What Makes the Salt River Unique?
Signature hatch or window
BWO (Mayfly) is a headline hatch to watch in September. Peak activity often tracks 42–56°F water temps.
Distinctive access
Star Valley: Valley access through the community.
Rules anglers miss
Native cutthroat - handle carefully.
When is the Best Time to Fish Salt River?
Spring
Runoff can be challenging. Late spring fishing.
Summer
Prime season with hatches. Hopper fishing.
Fall
Brown trout become active. Excellent conditions.
Winter
Limited access. Some open water fishing.
Recommended Equipment for Salt River
Rod
9-foot, 4 or 5-weight.
Line
Floating line for most fishing.
Leader & Tippet
9-foot tapered leader, 4X-5X tippet.
Waders
Breathable waders. Cold mountain water.
Essential Flies
How to Fish Salt River: Tips & Tactics
The Salt River flows through Wyoming's Star Valley, offering excellent fishing for native Snake River cutthroat and brown trout in a beautiful mountain setting.
Best Times of Day
Summer offers the best fishing with diverse hatches. Fall brings aggressive browns. The valley provides easy access.
Recommended Techniques
Freestone techniques work well. Match the hatches. Small stream tactics in upper reaches.
Water Conditions
Star Valley is a scenic mountain valley. Clear water most of the season. Easy access from the valley road.
Fly Selection
Caddis and mayfly patterns. Hopper patterns in late summer. Streamers for brown trout.
Access Points & Parking for Salt River
Star Valley
Valley access through the community.
Afton
Town access with services.
Grover
Upper valley access.
Periodic Spring
Access near the famous spring.
Spawning Seasons
Please respect spawning fish and their redds. Avoid fishing over actively spawning trout.
Brown Trout
Spawn months: October, November
Night spawning common. Males become very dark with pronounced kype during spawn.
Rainbow Trout
Spawn months: March, April
Resident rainbow trout spawn in smaller tributaries and tend to build smaller redds than steelhead.
Cutthroat Trout
Spawn months: May, June, July
Spring spawners. Timing varies by subspecies and elevation - coastal populations spawn earlier (Feb-Mar), inland populations later (May-July). Eggs develop for 6-7 weeks before hatching.
Optimal Fishing Conditions
Optimal Flow
200 - 600 CFS
Best fishing conditions
Optimal Water Temperature
50° - 62°F
Ideal for active trout
Salt River Fishing Regulations
Season
Check Wyoming Game and Fish.
Limits
Cutthroat regulations protect natives.
Special Regulations
Native cutthroat - handle carefully.
Bait Restrictions
Check current regulations.
Notes
Native Snake River cutthroat are a treasure.
Always verify current regulations with Wyoming fish and wildlife agency before fishing. Regulations can change annually.
Fly Shops & Guides Near Salt River
Local Fly Shops
- Star Valley Anglers
- Jackson Hole Fly Shop
- Snake River Angler
Guide Services
- Star Valley Guides
- Salt River Outfitters
- Wyoming Anglers
Other Rivers You Might Like
Popular forecasts outside Wyoming—great for trip planning and comparing conditions.
Other Wyoming Trout Rivers
North Fork Shoshone
Green
Snake River
North Platte River
Firehole River
Salt River — frequently asked questions
When is the best time to fish the Salt River?
Excellent fall fishing. Browns aggressive.
What flies should I bring to the Salt River?
For the Salt River (freestone), carry: Elk Hair Caddis, PMD, Hopper, Pheasant Tail, Woolly Bugger.
What water temperature is best for trout on the Salt River?
On the Salt River, trout hold between 50° and 62°F. In summer, expect temps to swing with air temperature — fish early.
Do I need a fishing license for the Salt River?
Yes — you need a valid Wyoming fishing license to fish the Salt River. Local season: Check Wyoming Game and Fish.. Daily limit: Cutthroat regulations protect natives..
What hatches should I watch for on the Salt River in September?
BWO is the signature hatch on the Salt River in September. Match size and adjust leader size to 5X-6X. The fish key in on the emergence during low-light hours, so plan to be on the water at first light.
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