According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Spokane River receives over 200,000 rainbow trout annually, making it one of the most productive urban fisheries in the Pacific Northwest. This urban river combines convenient city access with quality angling opportunities, flowing through downtown Spokane while supporting healthy populations of rainbow trout, mountain whitefish, and seasonal salmon runs. Spokane River fly fishing offers exceptional opportunities year-round, with anglers finding success using nymphs and streamers in the deeper pools while dry flies work well during summer evening hatches.
Key Takeaways
- The Spokane River offers year-round fly fishing opportunities with over 200,000 stocked rainbow trout annually
- Urban access points provide convenient fishing within walking distance of downtown hotels and restaurants
- Peak fishing occurs during spring and fall when water temperatures favor active feeding
- Successful patterns include nymphs and streamers that match the river’s abundant aquatic insect population
- Multiple access points span from Riverside State Park to downtown Spokane, offering varied fishing experiences
Prime Spokane River Fly Fishing Locations
The Spokane River stretches 111 miles from Coeur d’Alene Lake to its confluence with the Columbia River. The most productive fishing occurs within the 30-mile stretch flowing through Spokane County.
Riverside State Park serves as the premier destination for serious anglers. The park’s Bowl and Pitcher area offers deep pools and consistent current breaks where rainbow trout concentrate. Access here requires a short hike but rewards anglers with less pressured fish.
Downtown Spokane provides productive fishing beneath the city’s bridges. The Centennial Trail offers multiple access points where you can walk from parking to productive water in under five minutes. These urban fly fishing spots produce consistent results during evening hatches.
Peaceful Valley offers the most accessible wade fishing. The gentle gradient creates perfect riffle-pool sequences that hold trout throughout the season. Parking sits adjacent to the water with minimal walking required.
Understanding Seasonal Fishing Patterns
Spring emergence begins in March when water temperatures reach 45°F. Baetis mayflies provide the first significant hatch activity, triggering feeding responses from winter-dormant trout. March through May produces the year’s most predictable dry fly fishing.
Summer fishing requires early morning or evening approaches. Water temperatures peak between 65-70°F during July and August, pushing trout into deeper pools and shaded areas. Successful summer fishing focuses on subsurface presentations in thermal refuges.
Fall represents peak fishing conditions. September through November combines comfortable air temperatures with active feeding as trout prepare for winter. Salmon runs during October add excitement and attract larger resident trout to staging areas.
Winter fishing remains viable but challenging. Ice-free sections below the dams provide opportunities for dedicated anglers willing to brave cold conditions. Nymph fishing produces the most consistent winter results.
Effective Fly Patterns for Success
Nymph patterns dominate year-round success on the Spokane River. Pheasant Tail Nymphs in sizes 14-18 match the abundant mayfly larvae. Prince Nymphs and Copper Johns trigger strikes from rainbow trout throughout the system.
Streamer fishing excels during spring runoff and fall salmon runs. Woolly Buggers in olive, brown, and black produce strikes from larger trout. Sculpin patterns work well in the deeper pools near downtown.
Dry fly opportunities peak during evening hours from May through September. Elk Hair Caddis, Adams, and Royal Wulff patterns cover most surface feeding situations. Size 14-16 flies match the predominant insect profile.
Emerging patterns bridge the gap between nymphs and dry flies. Soft hackle flies and CDC emergers produce during transitional periods when insects move from bottom to surface.
Water Characteristics and Fish Behavior
The river’s character transforms as it flows through different geological zones. Understanding these variations helps predict where fish concentrate and how they behave throughout the seasons.
The upper reaches near Post Falls feature granite boulder gardens that create classic pocket water. Here, rainbow trout position themselves in small eddies behind rocks, feeding on drifting insects. The water clarity in these sections often exceeds six feet, requiring careful approach and precise presentations.
As the river enters Spokane Valley, it transitions into broader runs with gravel substrates. These areas support the highest concentrations of aquatic insects, making them prime feeding zones. The trout holding patterns in these sections follow predictable guidelines, with fish positioning themselves along current seams and depth transitions.
The downtown section presents unique challenges and opportunities. Urban runoff adds nutrients that support insect populations, but also creates water quality variations. Fish in these areas often display less wariness due to constant human activity, making them more approachable for beginning anglers.
Temperature stratification occurs in the deeper pools below the downtown dams. Cold water from the bottom layers creates summer refuges where trout remain active even during peak heat. These thermal sanctuaries require specific techniques to reach fish holding near the bottom.
Advanced Fishing Techniques
High-stick nymphing proves most effective in the varied current speeds. The technique involves keeping as much line off the water as possible while maintaining contact with your flies. This approach improves strike detection in complex currents.
Euro-nymphing methods work well in the deeper runs. The heavily weighted flies and tight line control allow precise depth management. Most successful anglers use two-fly rigs with a heavy point fly and lighter dropper positioned 18 inches apart.
Swing presentations become critical during salmon runs when trout chase baitfish. Cast upstream and allow the current to sweep your streamer through likely holding areas. Control swing speed through line mending and rod positioning.
Dead drift accuracy separates successful anglers from frustrated ones. The varied current speeds require constant line management to achieve natural presentations. Practice reading water and predicting where your fly will travel before making each cast.
Gear Recommendations for Success
Rod selection impacts success on the river’s diverse water types. A 9-foot, 5-weight rod provides the best all-around performance, offering enough backbone for wind casting while maintaining sensitivity for subtle strikes.
Reel choice matters less than line selection for these conditions. Weight-forward floating lines handle 80% of fishing situations. Adding a sink-tip section extends the season into deeper winter fishing.
Leader construction requires adaptation to specific conditions. Start with 9-foot, 4X leaders for general conditions. Extend to 12 feet with 5X or 6X tippet in clear water situations. The gin-clear conditions often demand longer, lighter leaders than many Western rivers.
Wader selection depends on your preferred fishing locations. Chest waders provide access to the deeper pools below downtown, while hip boots suffice for most wade fishing in the valley sections. The rocky bottom requires felt soles or rubber tread patterns for safe wading.
Essential accessories include forceps for hook removal, nippers for quick tippet changes, and a landing net sized for the river’s typical 12-16 inch rainbow trout. A quality vest or chest pack keeps frequently used items accessible while wading.
Regulations and Ethics
Washington state fishing licenses apply to all Spokane River fishing. Non-residents can purchase short-term licenses for visits, while residents benefit from annual options. The Washington state fishing regulations change annually, requiring verification before each season.
Daily limits vary by section and season. The general trout limit allows five fish over eight inches, but special regulations apply in certain areas. Riverside State Park maintains different rules than the downtown sections.
Barbless hooks are required in specific sections and recommended throughout the system. The regulation supports catch-and-release fishing while reducing fish mortality. Crimping down barbs with pliers takes seconds and improves fish survival.
Catch-and-release practices preserve the fishery for future generations. Use appropriate landing techniques, minimize air exposure, and handle fish with wet hands. The heavily stocked populations can sustain harvest, but voluntary release maintains better fishing quality.
Seasonal Strategies for Success
Spring tactics focus on emerging insect activity and rising water temperatures. Begin with subsurface presentations using Pheasant Tail Nymphs and Hare’s Ear patterns. As water warms above 50°F, surface activity increases.
Early season hot spots include the shallower riffles that warm first. South-facing banks receive more sunlight and often produce the day’s first hatches. Position yourself to cast into these thermal zones during peak afternoon hours.
Summer approaches require strategy adjustments. Focus fishing efforts during early morning hours before 9 AM and evening periods after 6 PM. Midday fishing remains possible in shaded areas and deeper pools below the dams.
Thermal mapping becomes crucial during summer months. Use a stream thermometer to locate water below 65°F. These areas often concentrate fish and insects during the hottest periods. Summer success depends on finding these cooling zones.
Fall fishing capitalizes on active feeding before winter. September through November offers the year’s most consistent action. Trout feed on salmon eggs and fleeing baitfish during the annual runs.
Streamer fishing reaches peak effectiveness during fall months. Large Woolly Buggers and sculpin patterns trigger strikes from fish focused on high-protein meals. Focus efforts near spawning areas where salmon activity attracts predatory trout.
Weather Impact on Fishing
Barometric pressure changes affect fish behavior on the Spokane River. Falling pressure triggers feeding activity, while high pressure often reduces fish movement. Monitor weather forecasts to time your fishing efforts with optimal conditions.
Wind direction influences insect hatches and fish feeding patterns. Upstream winds concentrate flying insects against shoreline vegetation, creating feeding opportunities. Downstream winds scatter insects across the water surface, requiring different presentation strategies.
Precipitation affects the river differently depending on the season. Spring snowmelt increases flows and reduces clarity, favoring larger flies and active presentations. Summer thunderstorms provide temporary relief from heat while activating feeding.
Cloud cover improves fishing conditions by reducing surface glare and extending feeding periods. Overcast days allow successful fishing throughout traditional midday dead periods. The reduced light penetration makes fish less spooky and more willing to feed in shallow areas.
Access Points and Logistics
Parking availability varies among access points. Riverside State Park requires day-use fees but provides ample parking and restroom facilities. The Bowl and Pitcher area fills quickly during summer weekends, making early arrival essential.
Centennial Trail access points offer free parking with varying walk distances to productive water. The T.J. Meenach Bridge provides the shortest walk but limited parking during peak times. Plan alternative locations during busy periods.
Peaceful Valley offers the most convenient vehicle access with parking adjacent to fishing areas. The gentle gradient makes this location ideal for beginning waders or those with mobility limitations.
Public transportation serves several fishing locations through Spokane Transit Authority routes. The downtown stops provide access to urban fishing areas without parking concerns. Check current schedules as service varies seasonally.
Conservation and Future Outlook
Habitat restoration projects continue improving fish populations and angling opportunities. Recent dam removal discussions could alter the river’s character and fish populations. Stay informed about proposed changes through local angling organizations.
Water quality monitoring shows general improvement over the past decade. Reduced industrial discharge and improved sewage treatment benefit both fish populations and angling experiences. Continued vigilance helps these gains persist.
Volunteer opportunities exist through local Trout Unlimited chapters and the Inland Northwest Fly Fishing Club. Habitat restoration, stream monitoring, and education programs rely on angler participation. Contributing time helps preserve fishing opportunities for future generations.
Climate change impacts require adaptive management strategies. Earlier snowmelt, altered precipitation patterns, and increased summer temperatures challenge traditional fishing approaches. Successful anglers adapt techniques to changing conditions while supporting conservation efforts.
FAQ
What is the best time of year for Spokane River fly fishing?
Spring and fall offer peak conditions. March through May provides excellent dry fly fishing during mayfly hatches, while September through November features feeding activity before winter.
Do I need special gear for Spokane River fly fishing?
A 9-foot, 5-weight rod with floating line handles most situations. Chest waders help access deeper pools, while hip boots work for valley sections. Barbless hooks are required in some areas.
Where can I access the Spokane River for fly fishing?
Riverside State Park, Centennial Trail access points, and Peaceful Valley provide primary access. Downtown areas offer convenient urban fishing within walking distance of hotels and restaurants.
What flies work best on the Spokane River?
Pheasant Tail Nymphs, Prince Nymphs, and Woolly Buggers produce consistently. Elk Hair Caddis and Adams patterns work during evening surface activity from May through September.
Are there fishing guides available for the Spokane River?
Several local guides specialize in Spokane River fly fishing. They provide equipment, instruction, and local knowledge for visiting anglers. Book early during peak seasons for best availability.
What fish species can I expect to catch?
Rainbow trout dominate catches, with the river receiving over 200,000 stocked fish annually. Mountain whitefish, seasonal salmon runs, and occasional brown trout provide variety throughout the year.
Sources:
Eastern Washington University – Aquatic Invertebrate Community Assessment: Spokane River Basin
Spokane Falls Fly Fishers – Annual Membership Survey and River Conditions Report
Spokane River Forum – 2023 State of the River Report
Spokane River Regional Toxics Task Force – Annual Water Quality Monitoring Report
U.S. Geological Survey – Spokane River Water Quality and Flow Data
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife – Region 1 Fish Population Surveys and Angler Use Data
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife – Spokane River Fish Population Assessment
Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office – Economic Impact of Recreational Fishing in Washington State