Wyomingfreestone
Snake River Fishing Forecast
Fly fishers plan Wyoming trips on the Snake River because it stacks credible wading access, recognizable insect cycles, and trout that respond when flows align. Expect classic freestone rhythm: push during stable or dropping flows after fronts, then back off when the river spikes and color returns in 24–48 hours. River-specific intel: The Snake River in Wyoming flows through spectacular Jackson Hole, offering excellent fishing for native Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat trout with the Teton Range as backdrop. USGS gauge 13018750 tracks live flow and temperature for planning wade or float days.
Today's Snake River is reading 51°F and 1430 CFS. That's a 6/10 day on the water. Top pick: a Serendipity.
Open year-round (check section regs)
Below Jackson Lake Dam: daily limit increased to 6 trout in 2026. Cutthroat limit 3 (only 1 over 12in). Open year-round
Forecast and on-page guide updated October 25, 2026 (UTC). Open the app for hourly conditions.
Today's verdict
Snake River
Fair
Updated 9:36 PM
51°F
1430 CFS
6 PM - 8 PM
Serendipity
Free to start • No signup required • Hourly updates
What Makes the Snake River Unique?
Signature hatch or window
BWO (Mayfly) is a headline hatch to watch in October. Peak activity often tracks 42–55°F water temps.
Distinctive access
Jackson Hole: Multiple access points in the valley.
Rules anglers miss
Snake River cutthroat must be released in most areas.
Optimal Fishing Conditions
Optimal Flow
3000 - 8000 CFS
Best fishing conditions
Optimal Water Temperature
50° - 62°F
Ideal for active trout
Quick Facts
Snake River Cutthroat Trout, Brown Trout, and Rainbow Trout
freestone
40°F - 50°F
October Hatches
BWO
Mayfly
Spring and fall prime. Overcast days best.
October Fishing Tactics
Primary Targets
Recommended Tactics
Cutthroat are aggressive with cooling water. Dam releases keep flows and temps steady, so cover streamers through midday.
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 | 48-58°F | BWOs, Streamers, Hoppers |
| October(Now) | 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 |
Recommended Equipment for Snake River
Rod
9-foot, 5 or 6-weight.
Line
Floating line for dry flies.
Leader & Tippet
9-foot tapered leader, 4X-5X tippet.
Waders
Breathable waders. Float trips standard.
Essential Flies
How to Fish Snake River: Tips & Tactics
The Snake River in Wyoming flows through spectacular Jackson Hole, offering excellent fishing for native Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat trout with the Teton Range as backdrop.
Best Times of Day
Summer offers the best dry fly fishing with prolific hatches. Fall brings aggressive cutthroat. The Teton views are incredible.
Recommended Techniques
Float fishing is the tradition. Match the diverse hatches. Native cutthroat are willing dry fly feeders.
Water Conditions
The Tetons provide stunning scenery. Clear water and healthy cutthroat populations. Float fishing covers the most water.
Fly Selection
Hopper patterns in late summer. PMD and caddis for hatches. Stimulators and attractors. Cutthroat are willing feeders.
When is the Best Time to Fish Snake River?
Spring
Runoff limits fishing. Late spring improves.
Summer
Prime season. Hopper fishing excellent.
Fall
Cutthroat become aggressive. Great conditions.
Winter
Limited - some sections fishable.
Access Points & Parking for Snake River
Jackson Hole
Multiple access points in the valley.
South Park
Upper river access.
Wilson
Quality fishing access.
Hoback Junction
Confluence area access.
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.
Snake River Fishing Regulations
Season
Check Wyoming Game and Fish.
Limits
Native cutthroat regulations protect the fishery.
Special Regulations
Snake River cutthroat must be released in most areas.
Bait Restrictions
Artificial flies and lures only.
Notes
Native Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat are special.
Always verify current regulations with Wyoming fish and wildlife agency before fishing. Regulations can change annually.
Fly Shops & Guides Near Snake River
Local Fly Shops
- Jack Dennis Sports - Jackson
- Snake River Angler - Jackson
- World Cast Anglers
Guide Services
- Snake River Angler
- Jackson Hole Fly Fishing
- Grand Fishing Adventures
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Snake River — frequently asked questions
When is the best time to fish the Snake River?
Cutthroat are aggressive with cooling water. Dam releases keep flows and temps steady, so cover streamers through midday.
What flies should I bring to the Snake River?
For the Snake River (freestone), carry: Hopper, Stimulator, PMD, Elk Hair Caddis, Chubby Chernobyl.
What water temperature is best for trout on the Snake River?
On the Snake 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 Snake River?
Yes — you need a valid Wyoming fishing license to fish the Snake River. Local season: Check Wyoming Game and Fish.. Daily limit: Native cutthroat regulations protect the fishery..
What hatches should I watch for on the Snake River in October?
BWO is the signature hatch on the Snake River in October. 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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6/10 today · Fair