Guide to Fly Fishing Tours on the Upper Snake River

Fishing the Upper Snake River with Wilson Fishing Guides

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is home to some of the finest blue-ribbon trout fisheries in the world, with the Upper Snake River offering exceptional opportunities for anglers. Wilson Fishing Guides provides expertly guided fishing trips that allow guests to experience the region’s legendary waters firsthand. Whether drifting through scenic canyon stretches, covering vast waters in a big boat, or wading into hidden tributaries, these trips offer an unparalleled way to explore the area’s remarkable trout habitat.

Why the Upper Snake River?

The Upper Snake River is a blue-ribbon fishery renowned for its healthy populations of native cutthroat trout, Rainbow and the occasional Brown Trout. Breathtaking scenery and diverse fishing conditions make this section of the Snake a world-class destination for anglers of all experience levels. With Wilson Fishing Guides, you gain access to prime fishing locations and expert guidance to help you make the most of your time on the water. These excursions offer a mix of thrilling top-water strikes, skillful casting lessons, and the insider scoop on “what’s biting.” For the casual angler, sit back and enjoy the stories from legendary local guides as the wild scenery passes you by.  

Classic Drift Boat Trips

• Duration: 4 hours / 6 hours

• Best For: Anglers ages 6+ looking to cover long stretches of prime water

• Highlights: Iconic drift fishing, stunning landscapes, and plentiful cutthroat trout

What to Expect: The classic drift boat experience allows anglers to float through the heart of the Upper Snake River’s best fishing spots. With a professional guide at the oars, you'll be able to cast to hungry fish in eddies, riffles, and deep pools. The Snake River’s cutthroat trout are eager risers, making dry-fly fishing an exciting and rewarding technique throughout much of the season. This trip is perfect for those who want to experience the river’s full beauty while maximizing their chances of netting native trout.

Big Boat Fishing Adventures

• Duration: 4 hours / 6 hours

• Best For: Anglers ages 6+, families, or groups of up to 5 people seeking more stability and comfort

• Highlights: Roomy boat design, multiple anglers fishing simultaneously, and access to larger waterways

What to Expect: Big boat trips offer a more spacious and stable fishing experience, ideal for those who prefer extra comfort or are traveling with family and friends. The Clackacraft Max drift boat holds up to 5 passengers at a time. These vessels allow access to different sections of the Upper Snake River and surrounding lakes, where you’ll find excellent opportunities for both fly and spin fishing. With plenty of casting room and top-tier gear provided, this trip is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a relaxed day on the water chocked full of fishing opportunities.

Walk and Wade Fishing Trips

• Duration: 4 hours / 6 hours

• Best For: Anglers 10+ who enjoy a more hands-on and technical fishing experience

• Highlights: Access to remote tributaries, expert instruction, and up-close encounters with nature

What to Expect: Walk and wade trips provide an intimate and immersive fishing experience, ideal for anglers who enjoy stalking trout in smaller streams and side channels. Your guide will take you to some of the most secluded and productive waters, helping you refine your technique while targeting trout in their natural habitat. Your guide will choose the best destination for each guest based on fishing activity and individual needs. This is an excellent option for those looking to hone their casting skills and experience the solitude of Jackson Hole’s backcountry waters.

What to Bring on Your Fishing Trip

• Clothing: Layered attire, waterproof jacket, waders, and non-slip boots

• Gear: High-quality rods, reels, and flies provided by Wilson Fishing Guides, though personal equipment is welcome

• Sun Protection: Sunscreen and a good hat is a must for protection from the high-elevation sun

• Snacks & Water: Some beverages and snacks are provided but the ravenous eater may prefer heartier provisions

• Camera: Capture the stunning scenery and your trophy catches

Best Time for a Fishing Trip

Fishing in Jackson Hole is excellent from late spring through early fall, with peak dry-fly action occurring in the summer months. The Upper Snake River’s trout are particularly active during hatches of stoneflies, mayflies, and caddisflies. Fall provides stunning foliage and less fishing pressure, making it an excellent time to target aggressive trout before winter sets in.

Booking Your Trip

The booking process through Jackson Hole Tourbase is as easy as it gets with flexible options to accommodate individuals, families, and groups. Whether you’re looking for a full-day adventure or a quick morning on the river, expert guides will tailor the experience to suit your skill level and fishing preferences. Reservations can be made online or via phone, with custom trip options available.

Make the most of your summer plans by booking today! Trips fill fast as the heat of summer kicks in, so give us a call and secure your spot. We are happy to talk fishing and set you up with the best trips for you and your group.