Sun, Rain, Wind, Snow, Big Fish
I have a love-hate relationship with our annual trip to Henrys Lake in Idaho. On the plus side, I caught my personal best stillwater trout there—a 28.5-inch rainbow/cutthroat hybrid. The group I fish with is also one of the most entertaining and intense bunch of anglers you’ll find—almost over the line! The downside? Because we fish in early October, the weather at 6,400 feet is totally unpredictable. This year, we got it all: 32-degree mornings, rain, snow, and even the first time we’ve ever been blown off the lake!
Still, we caught some big fish. After spending 20 days on the water over four years, we’ve learned a thing or two about this shallow, 6,000-acre lake—like where and how to fish it. There’s a spot we call Bart’s Cove, named after me because my partner and I did so well there that the next day another boat in our group snuck in and landed double-digit catches. This year, we learned that fishing ‘damp’ flies in that area early in the morning is a winning strategy. Bart’s Cove isn’t really a secret, but finding it ourselves through trial and error is super rewarding.
So, what’s next? I’ll be heading back with the same crew in 2026. I’ve got a few new fly patterns lined up to match this year’s baitfish theme. And you can bet I’ll be packing everything from sandals to an arctic parka—just in case.
