Skip to main content

Big Lost River

Boat Ramps
0
Access Points
11
Species
9

The Big Lost River in central Idaho is a premier trout fishing destination that flows approximately 135 miles through the stunning Lost River Valley. Starting in the Pioneer Mountains at elevations over 10,000 feet, this freestone stream gets its name from the way it eventually disappears into the Snake River Aquifer near Arco, Idaho. With the majestic Lost River Range and Pioneer Mountains providing a spectacular backdrop, the river offers diverse fishing experiences through its various sections, from mountain streams to tailwater fishing below Mackay Reservoir. The river supports a healthy population of wild and stocked trout, making it an attractive destination for anglers of all skill levels seeking both quantity and quality in their catches.


Species & education

Learn what type of fish are at Big Lost River and what's needed to catch them.

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Big Lost River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Know where you can legally fish on Big Lost River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

Idaho licenses and regulations

Idaho Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

Learn more, opens in new tab

Idaho Fishing License

"To fish in Idaho any person 14 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license. Anglers younger than 14 do not need a license, but there is a small difference between resident and nonresident youth. -A resident child under 14 has their own separate fishing limit. -A nonresident child under 14 must be with someone who has a valid fishing license and their fish are in included in the license holders fishing limit. However, a nonresident child may purchase their own license and have their own limit. Special fishing permits are need for some activities for both residents and nonresidents: -Fishing for salmon and steelhead -Fishing with two poles."

Learn more, opens in new tab

Idaho Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

Learn more, opens in new tab

Idaho Stream Access Laws

Navigable streams are recognized as public transportation corridors, thus members of the public have the right to use the corridor, provided they enter and exit the corridor at a public right of way and remain within the corridor. Many navigable streams flow through private property, thus it is important that anglers know their rights and responsibilities when fishing in navigable waters that flow through private property.

Learn more, opens in new tab

Take Big Lost River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Big Lost River to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Big Lost River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

Get the onWater Fish app

Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Big Lost River and check the forecast before you go.

BIG LOST RIVER AT HOWELL RANCH NR CHILLY ID

Loading flow chart…
Latest
10 yr average

All Flow Stations



Smarter Fishing Starts in the App.

onWater Fish gives you everything you need to plan smarter, fish better, and own every trip from first cast to last.