Trip brief · St. Joe River
How to go fish the St. Joe River
The months we list for the St. Joe River are June, July, August, September, October. You are inside that window now, so this brief is written for August.
August
No USGS gauge is mapped to this river.
Flies to tie — August
Grasshopper#8-12
Caddis#14-18
Ants#16-20
Black Foam Ant
Access
St. Maries Lower Access
47.316, -116.558parking
Calder Access
47.284, -116.205parking
Avery Access
47.236, -115.825parking
Heller Creek
47.120, -115.550parking
Regs — check current rules before you go
Idaho fishing license required. Native westslope cutthroat: catch-and-release only in many designated sections — check IDFG regulations. Bull trout catch-and-release only, do not remove from water. Wild and Scenic designation applies to upper sections. Catch limits vary by section — consult current IDFG regulations. Above Avery: primarily walk-and-wade, 4WD road access. Forest road closures possible in spring — check with St. Joe Ranger District.
Pack list
- A current state fishing licence
- Waders and boots you have already leak-tested
- Net, nippers, forceps
- Floatant and desiccant
- Tippet in the sizes the chart asks for
- Water, sun cover, polarised glasses
Generic gear. Anything specific to this water is above.
Full hatch chart, access map and live gauge on the St. Joe River page →