Riggens Fishing Guides
Riggins fishing guides offer direct access to the Salmon River’s fast water for steelhead, chinook salmon, and some of Idaho’s best whitewater trout action.
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Riggins, ID Fishing Guide
Riggins sits right on the banks of the Salmon River—one of the last major free-flowing rivers in the Lower 48—and that makes it a prime launch point for Idaho river fishing. Most guides here are drift or jet boat trips, offering half-day and full-day options focused on either steelhead runs or salmon migrations depending on the season. There’s also a decent trout fishery year-round for anglers looking to work flies or light spinning gear.
The main river channel cuts right through Riggins, so access is easy. Popular launch ramps include Shorts Bar, Island Bar, and Spring Bar, all within a short drive from town. Jet boats can run quite a ways up or downriver depending on water levels and time of year, but many guides stick within a 5–10 mile stretch to focus on known steelhead lanes or salmon holding pools.
Spring and fall steelhead seasons bring in serious anglers looking to drift roe or cast spoons along rock seams and tailouts. Summer fishing leans into light tackle for smallmouth bass and trout, especially near deeper holes and shady banks. Fly fishing is common too, especially in lower-pressure sections upstream from town. During chinook salmon season, expect heavier setups with plugs, divers, or back-trolling rigs.
Riggins fishing isn’t about wide open lakes or offshore runs—it’s about reading current, knowing structure, and timing those big fish runs. The guides here tend to be river veterans who know every eddy and chute by heart.
Fishing Seasons in Riggins
Spring (March–May)
Spring in Riggins is all about the steelhead. As the water warms, these ocean-run fish finish their journey and hold in deep pools and tailouts near town. Most spring trips are drift or jet boat setups running cured roe or beads under bobbers. Fly anglers also get solid grabs swinging sink-tip streamers. Late spring also sees good trout activity as runoff picks up and insects hatch.
Summer (June–August)
Summertime brings lighter gear and more variety. Trout and smallmouth bass are the go-to targets, with dry fly action picking up in the early mornings and late evenings. Jet boat trips shift toward exploring more remote upriver holes. Chinook salmon season can overlap into early summer, with back-trolling or plug fishing in deeper runs when flows stabilize.
Fall (September–November)
Fall means steelhead again, especially from late September through November. The fish are fresher than spring and more aggressive. Anglers fish deeper with side-drifting setups or swinging flies on sink tips. The river starts to clear up, and pressure often drops—ideal for those who like cooler weather and active fish.
Winter (December–February)
Hardcore steelheaders stick it out through winter, especially in December and early January. These fish are colored up but still willing to bite if you can get a bait or fly down to them. Fewer crowds, cold water, and steady flows mean you’ll want slow presentations—roe, yarnies, or jigs fished close to the bottom. Most trips this time of year are short and selective based on weather.
Gamefish in Riggens
- Steelhead – 24–34". Caught fall through spring in the Salmon River using roe, yarn, spoons, or swung flies in deep runs and tailouts.
- Chinook Salmon – 15–30 lbs. Targeted in early summer with plugs, divers, and back-trolling rigs in deep current seams.
- Rainbow Trout – 10–20". Year-round in riffles and seams; effective with dry flies, nymphs, spinners, and worms.
- Cutthroat Trout – 10–18". Less common but present; targeted with fly gear in clearer, shallower runs.
- Smallmouth Bass – 10–18". Found in summer near rocky banks and slow current pockets; hit crankbaits, soft plastics, or flies.
Riggins Fishing FAQs
What kinds of trips can I book in Riggins?
Riggins fishing trips mostly focus on river fishing by jet boat or drift boat, with options for steelhead, salmon, trout, or bass depending on season.
When is steelhead season in Riggins?
Steelhead fishing picks up in fall (September–November) and again in late winter through spring (February–April), with different tactics used each time.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes, anglers need an Idaho fishing license, and steelhead or salmon tags if targeting those species. Guides usually help with those details before your trip.
Where do most Riggins fishing guides launch from?
Launch points near Riggins include Shorts Bar, Spring Bar, and Island Bar—all with easy river access just minutes from town
Can I fly fish on the Salmon River?
Absolutely. Fly fishing is popular in clearer sections upstream and during trout or steelhead runs, especially with streamers or nymphs.
What should I bring on a summer trip?
In summer, bring light clothes, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and water. The sun can be intense even if you’re waist-deep in current.
Are kids allowed on these trips?
Yes, many guides welcome families, especially on summer bass or trout trips. Jet boat trips can be loud and fast, so check with your captain first
How long are the typical trips?
Most outfitters run half-day (4–5 hours) or full-day (8+ hours). Longer trips cover more water and often increase your odds, especially in steelhead season.
Is the Salmon River safe for beginners?
With the right guide, yes. The river has big water and current, but experienced Riggins captains know how to fish it safely and keep everyone comfortable.