Although Idaho's Middle Fork Salmon River offers world-famous fly fishing even during our summertime guided float trips, it becomes a wilderness fly fishing paradise in September, when Middle Fork outfitters and guides wind down the white water season. So for serious sporting float trips (whether it be fly fishing, spin fishing, and/or Chukar hunting), join us in September for guided dedicated trout fishing trips or combo trout fishing & Chukar hunting (Cast and Blast trips).

   If you read travel and fishing magazines, you know about the world-famous Idaho fishing on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River (see Summer Rafting page for Sports Afield fly-fishing quote). Ego boosting to say the least: whether you're an expert or you need a little instruction from the fishing guides, and whether you do it fly-fishing or otherwise, you will quickly realize how the Middle Fork earned such a wonderful reputation! After summer's whitewater, the Middle Fork gets lower and slower in the fall. Crystal clear, spring-fed waters, combined with an extraordinarily plentiful and aggressive population of native cutthroat trout, make the Middle Fork of the Salmon River one of the most perfect dry fly-fishing waters in the world. It is simply exhilarating to watch these fish emerge from the depths to take a fly and then run with it. In addition to the many cutthroat, we also see some Rainbow trout and an occasional Dolly Varden; once again, all are natives.

   Most of the day we'll be fishing from the moving rafts, drifting along, casting into deep pools, along eddies, or up against rock walls. You may also fish anytime we're on shore--from camp in the mornings and evenings, or in a hole or side tributary when we pull over for lunch.

   In order to protect this priceless wilderness resource, the Idaho Fish & Game requires that all fishing on the Middle Fork be catch and release, using only single, barbless hooks and no live bait (suggested fly-fishing or spin casting equipment and tackle will be sent upon booking a trip, or upon request). Fishing and Chukar hunting licenses can be obtained online at Idaho Fish & Game, or at sporting goods outfitters or tackle shops in Idaho.

"God never did make a more calm, quiet, innocent recreation than angling." - IZAAK WALTON (1655)

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If you'd enjoy Chukar hunting and trout fishing on the same outing, you've come to the right outfitters. Opt for one of our popular Middle Fork Cast and Blast trips in mid-late September (dates to be determined annually by Idaho Fish & Game). Days will be spent as described above, except that we'll pull over whenever a covey of birds is spotted (and the guides will add a delicious Chukar recipe or two to the menu!) You will definitely want to bring your bird dog on this most popular and memorable expedition. Non Hunting guests are also welcome, at the regular guaranteed fishing prices.

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Naturally, you can be assured the same gourmet touches, hot shower, and pampered service as described for our summer Middle Fork rafting trips on preceding pages. Because sporting expeditions require a more costly configuration of rafts and guide support, the fare per person are slightly higher than other fishing trips.  However, if you have a private group, call us to discuss your preferences, because trout fishing trips as well as combo fishing & Chukar hunting (Cast and blast) expeditions can be customized by length, date of launch, and group size (and therefore price).

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