Who is best suited to this destination? This is a location for guests who appreciate a high level of service, cozy cabin-like rooms, and fast access to the Henry’s Fork River. The location works best for guests who are interested in fishing hard during the day and relaxing hard in the evening. The lodge is pretty quiet and best suited for the studious angler.
Where is the lodge? The lodge is located in Island Park, ID on the banks of the Henry’s Fork River.
How do I get there? Guests will fly into Idaho Falls, ID and rent a car or request a shuttle for the one-hour drive.
When should I go? The Henry’s Fork is a wonderful river to fish during the runoff season and anglers who go in May or early June will enjoy fewer crowds and the salmonfly hatch. July brings a nice variety of insects and dry fly fishing picks up substantially. The river drops significantly in August due to irrigation and the fishing can slow down at that time as well, but it picks back up in mid- to late-September as evenings cool off and the angling pressure decreases.
How will I fish? Anglers will fish two per guide and most sections will be floated in a drift boat. There are sections of the river that allow for some wading but most of the river is best fished while drifting. Private sections like Railroad Ranch are available for wade-only days.
This river is known for some excellent dry fly fishing and most guests will fish with a larger stimulator or indicator fly with a nymph or two dropped below. The river is dynamic and the fishing method changes based on which section is fished. Due to permitting and guide caps, it is best to let us know in advance if you have any fishing preferences.
Is there wade fishing? Yes, there is wade fishing on about 15 miles of the river that is accessed by boat, or at Railroad Ranch which can be accessed at an additional rod fee.
Where will I fish? There are about 25-miles of water to fish on the Henry’s Fork River. In addition to this, guests can fish the South Fork of the Snake River, the Madison River and lakes.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds? Most locations take 30-minutes or less to reach, although other rivers such as the South Fork of the snake are closer to an hour and a half away.
What type(s) of fish will I catch? Anglers will catch brown trout and rainbow trout primarily, as well as white fish and occasionally the rogue sucker fish.
How many fish will I catch? The number of fish caught per day will vary depending on angler experience and conditions. Anglers should expect an average of five fish per day, with a very healthy upside.
Will I see other anglers? You will see other anglers on the river, this is a very popular destination, and those who visit in May and September will see far fewer other anglers.
What are the guides like? There is a large range of guides and we will do our best to match anglers with guides who will have the right skillsets and personality for each trip.
What are the physical demands? There are no physical demands when working with the guides. Those who wish to self-guide from the lodge will have a little bit of a walk along a rocky shore, but the locations that will be accessed by guides will have developed boat ramps or drive up walk/wade access.
Are there any special skills required? There are no special skills required.
Does the lodge provide equipment? The outfitter can provide any needed equipment and will plan on providing rods, reels, and terminal tackle. Flies are an extra expense, as are boots and waders. Please let us know in advance if you will need to rent boots and waders.
What is your favorite setup for the trip? A 9-foot 6-weight rod is a great tool for this destination to go the distance, throw heavier setups, or push through the wind.
What are the top flies? The flies vary by week, we recommend calling in to ask for patterns specific to the timing of your trip. The guides will come prepared with the flies that have been fishing best during your trip.
[Freshwater only] What are the options if water conditions become challenging? Anglers fishing in this area should plan on fishing through difficult weather conditions. The Henry’s Fork of the Snake is permitted and each outfitter is only able to have three boats on each section each day. With his in mind, it can be difficult to make last minute location changes. Anglers should come prepare for rain, wind, sun and snow for their trip and we recommend keeping a close eye on the weather up to the day of your departure.
What is a typical day like? Guests will have breakfast in the lodge dining area between 6:30 AM and 8:00 AM. At 8:00 AM, guides will arrive at the front of the lodge and the lodge managers will help guests find their guide for the day. Anglers will fish until about 4:00 – 4:30 PM and will be back to the lodge by 5:30 PM. Cocktail hour begins at 6:30 PM, followed by dinner which is served between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
What is the general vibe, atmosphere and style of the lodge? The lodge is laid back and unassuming with a high level of service and friendly staff. Guests are free to come and go during dinner and appetizers, and can take each morning and evening at their own pace.
Is there an on-site owner, manager or other point-person at the lodge? There is an onsite manager at all times, and the lodge owner, Nelson Ishiyama, will likely be on the property most days during the summer months.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like? Guests will have breakfast and dinner in the dining area and can choose to eat inside or outside on the patio overlooking the river. Guests will dine by party and the restaurant will cater to lodge guests as well as locals.
What is the alcohol policy? Wine and beer are provided during cocktail hour but are not included during dinner. Guests may bring their own hard liquor, or request it be purchased for them for their arrival. Special liquor will be set out for parties who have requested it.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like? Guests will have two options for their stay. There are six lodge rooms, each complete with two queen beds and ensuite bathroom. Adjacent to the lodge are eight cottage suites with a bedroom, bathroom and sitting area.
Single occupancy accommodations are available with a nightly upcharge, please inquire for details.
Is there internet and/or cell service? There is intermittent cell service throughout Island Park and the lodge has Wifi for guests’ use.
Are there other activities? Those who prefer not to fly fishing have hiking, canoeing, paddle boarding, mountain biking, horseback riding, floating the national water trail and visits to Yellowstone National Park as additional activities.
Are there any other expenses? Guests of the lodge should plan on purchasing alcoholic beverages with dinner, flies used while fishing, gratuities, and fishing licenses as other expenses.
Do I need a visa? A visa is not needed for this trip.
Are there any health concerns, dangers or annoyances? Weather in the Rockies can be unpredictable. Guests should plan for hot days and cool evenings with chances of rain during the summer. Earlier than mid-June and later than mid-September, evenings could see below-freezing temperatures and there may be snowstorms. In fall, this area can experience more wind than usual. There can be some mosquitos in June, and wind in the afternoon is common year-round.
