Idaho Fishing Reports ยท Upper Snake Region
The Buffalo River is a short, spring-fed tributary of the Henrys Fork in Island Park with steady flows and rainbows that move up from the main river.
Looking for the latest Buffalo River report? This page is updated by the AvidMax fly shop team with live flows, current conditions, hatches and the flies working now on the Buffalo River.
Current flows
There is no live gauge on this stretch. Check nearby gauges on the Idaho fishing reports page.
Wind forecast
Buffalo River fishing report
Updated November 7, 2026.
Spring-fed flows stay steady and cold-tolerant into winter.
Small nymphs and midges near the mouth and the fish ladder area.
Load your fly box
Before you head to Island Park, bring: Zebra Midge #18-22, Pheasant Tail Nymph #16-18, Parachute Adams #16-20, Elk Hair Caddis #16, RS2 Emerger #18-22, JuJu Baetis #18-22, Black Beauty #20-24, Egg #14-16, Squirmy Wormie #12-14, Scud Bomb #14-16.
Flies working right now
The flies above that we have in stock right now.
Buffalo River details
| Access | Buffalo Campground and the area near the Henrys Fork confluence. |
|---|---|
| Elevation | About 6,300 ft |
| Nearest town | Island Park, Idaho |
| Best season | Late spring through fall |
| Fish | Rainbow and brook trout |
| Regulations | Check the Idaho Department of Fish and Game seasons and rules before you go. An Idaho fishing license is required for anglers 14 and older, plus a steelhead or salmon permit where those fish are targeted. |
| Leaders and tippet | 9 ft leaders, 5X to 6X tippet |
| Camping | Buffalo Campground |
| Kids | Yes. Small, gentle water near the campground. |
| Good to know | A good place to start in Island Park on a windy day. |
Fishing by season
Winter
Snow and quiet days.
Spring
Caddis and BWOs.
Summer
Caddis and PMDs.
Fall
BWOs.
How to get there
From Island Park, take US-20 to Buffalo Campground near Ponds Lodge.