The Teton River flows through Idaho on an 80 mile journey to the Snake River. In fact, the Teton is the longest free flowing river in the entire state of Idaho. A dam was constructed and in 1976, it breached and drained the reservoir, taking 11 lives along with thousands of cattle in the valley below. The breach scoured the landscape but it has since recovered and exists as a free flowing, vibrant fishery.
Flows And Weather
Rapids and Float Notes
The Teton is divided into two distinct sections. The Upper Teton is mellow and perfect for paddlers seeking serenity on a beautiful stretch of river. It’s friendly for rafts, paddle boards and kayaks and offers several launch and takeout options in the 25 miles of floatable water.
The canyon stretch is wildly different with boulders, rapids and fast water. The canyon is also exceptionally beautiful and has fast action fishing for experienced paddlers willing to tackle the whitewater.
Upper River Access Points
Fox Creek
South Bates
Bates Bridge
Rainey
Horseshoe Bridge
Cache/Packsaddle
Harrops Bridge
Canyon Access Points
Harrops Bridge – Serious whitewater in the narrows stretch. Best for experienced whitewater kayakers. It’s an 8 mile run from here to felt dam.
Felt Dam – Another 6 miles from here to Spring Hollow. This stretch is only for wade fisherman and is too dangerous to float.
Spring Hollow – Bring some ropes and walk your raft slowly down the steep hill into the canyon. It’s a 10.5 mile float with water ranging from class II to class IV whitewater. The difficult access means you have some great fishing in hard to reach places.
Old Teton Dam – Takeout here after floating the canyon.
Shuttle Services
Seaton Shuttles – Talk to Ed or Christi. Call 208-317-9866 or 208-317-9682
Teton River Fly Fishing
The Teton runs through famous trout country and is often overlooked by anglers heading to the Henry’s Fork and the Snake River system. The canyon access also requires hiking and anglers willing to make the effort are often rewarded with some healthy cutthroats. You will also find whitefish, rainbow trout and some brook trout here.
The upper river is slow moving and it fishes like a spring creek. Like the Henry’s Fork, it has prolific hatches but the fish are much less selective. The canyon section is fast and the fish are very opportunistic. Stonefly hatches are excellent and a big dry fly like a Stimulator is great for the pocket water.
