Half-Day Driftboat Fly Fishing on the Snake River — Jackson Hole
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic mobility; ability to step into a low-sided boat and remain seated for stretches is helpful.
Overview
Spend a half day drifting the Snake River in a traditional driftboat — guides provide gear and instruction for beginners and experienced anglers alike. Expect four hours on the water, close-up mountain scenery, and instruction tailored to families and first-timers.
Half-Day Driftboat Fly Fishing on the Snake River — Jackson Hole
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Morning on the Snake River arrives cold and bright. Low sun lifts off the Tetons and paints the water a liquid silver; the driftboat hums forward, oars dipped in a current that seems to know its own speed. Guides from Wandering Angler load rods, offer a steadying hand to first-timers, and talk quietly about the stretch ahead — riffles where cutthroat feed, slow seams holding brown trout, willow-edged runs where rainbows will take a dry fly.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Layer for river mornings
Temperatures swing quickly; wear moisture-wicking base layers and a light insulated jacket for early launches.
Bring polarized sunglasses
Polars cut glare and let you spot fish and underwater structure more easily.
Hydrate and snack between drifts
Trips include bottled water and snacks, but bring electrolytes if you’re sensitive to heat or altitude.
Communicate weight and mobility needs
Boat seating and safety depend on passenger weight — disclose true weights and any mobility concerns when booking.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagle
- Mule deer
History
Angling on the Snake has roots in Indigenous harvest and later became a recreational mainstay as early 20th-century outfitting grew around Jackson Hole.
Conservation
Operators emphasize catch-and-release techniques and careful handling; staying on established access points helps protect riparian vegetation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Jackson
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Polarized sunglasses
Reduce glare to see fish and protect eyes from reflected sunlight.
summer specific
Waterproof river shoes or wading boots
Provide traction on wet boat floors and stability when boarding or exiting the boat.
spring specific
Layered clothing (base layer + fleece)
Early mornings on the river stay cold into summer; layers let you adapt to warming afternoons.
Light rain shell
Quick showers or wind on the river can make a lightweight shell useful for comfort.
fall specific