ABOUT THE SALT RIVER IN WYOMING
Salt River Fly Fishing
Fly fishing on the Salt River is a unique experience, great for both intermediate and advanced anglers to put their skills to the test. A short 45-minute drive from the town of Jackson, the Salt River carves through a lush valley before flowing into Palisades reservoir. Although this river is close to the Jackson hub, there is undoubtable solitude to be found on the water. Often visited by Native Americans and early pioneers for its exposed salt beds, this river was–and still is–not known only for salt, but also for abundant game and fish.
The Salt River riparian zone is home to Cutthroat and Brown Trout, as well as abundant wildlife. High above the alpine of the Salt River Mountain Range, the Salt River seeps through the rocks of Mount Wagner. This is the beginning of its 84-mile-long journey. This small, intimate river is one of Wyoming’s best-kept secrets, and fly fishing the Salt River in Wyoming is an unforgettable experience. Book your fly fishing trip out of Jackson Hole with us today!
Fish Species
Anglers visiting the Salt River can expect to find:
- Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout: Native to the river, these trout are a prized catch for their beauty and rarity.
- Brown Trout: Found in deeper, slower-moving sections of the river.
Fly Hatches
The Salt River boasts a variety of fly hatches that are essential for successful fly fishing:
- Stoneflies: Including golden stones, which hatch in early summer.
- Mayflies: With species such as Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) and Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs) being prevalent.
- Caddisflies: Numerous species hatch throughout the summer months.
- Terrestrials: Grasshoppers and ants are abundant in late summer and early fall.
5 Fun Facts About the Salt River
- Scenic Surroundings: The Salt River meanders through the picturesque Star Valley, framed by the Salt River Range and the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, offering stunning views and a serene fishing environment.
- Native Trout: The river is home to native Yellowstone cutthroat trout, making it a prime destination for anglers seeking to catch this iconic species.
- Length and Flow: The Salt River flows for about 84 miles before joining the Snake River, providing ample opportunities for fishing along its length.
- Wildlife Sightings: The river’s ecosystem supports a diverse range of wildlife, including moose, bald eagles, and various waterfowl, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
- Historic Use: Historically, the Salt River was an important waterway for Native American tribes and early settlers in the region, providing resources and a transportation route.
Hydrology
The Salt River’s flow is heavily influenced by snowmelt from the surrounding mountains, leading to high water levels in the spring and early summer. As the season progresses, water levels stabilize, providing ideal fishing conditions. The river’s clear, cold water is perfect for sustaining a healthy trout population.
Historical Information
The Salt River has a rich history, used by Native American tribes for centuries as a source of food and transportation. In the 19th century, European settlers recognized the river’s potential for irrigation and agriculture. Today, the river remains a vital natural resource, supporting both ecological and recreational activities.
Ecological Overview
The Salt River supports a rich ecosystem, thanks to its cold, clear waters and abundant aquatic vegetation. The river’s health is crucial for maintaining the biodiversity of the region, providing habitat for various fish and wildlife species.
SALT RIVER FLOWS
Below, you’ll find the latest USGS graph displaying the current Cubic Feet per Second (CFS) discharge of the Salt River. This key metric varies with the seasons, with the highest flows usually seen in spring, driven by snowmelt from nearby mountains. As the colder months arrive, the CFS tends to decrease, indicating a calmer, lower-volume state of the river. Keeping track of these CFS trends is highly beneficial for assessing current fishing conditions, as they significantly influence the river’s environment and the behavior of fish. Refer to this graph to stay updated on the Salt River’s fly fishing conditions, ensuring both safety and effectiveness in your fishing endeavors.
