Photo By James J. Krunich

In south-central Idaho, Silver Creek flows forth from the base of the Picabo Hills as a spring creek that's renowned for trophy rainbows and browns. Trout of 20 inches aren't just common, they're average. Any angler who catches one will garner a mere nod and a smile from local enthusiasts. They save quiet discussion for fish hitting the two-foot mark, and true exclamations for anything bigger. Tough crowd, this Silver Creek crew!

Rainbows and browns in Silver Creek grow to dramatic proportions for good reasons. These waters are rich, having gained nutrients by traveling underground below the Picabo Hills. The creek is fed by Stalker, Loving and Grove creeks, and by springs that surface at various locations inside the confines of the property held by the Nature Conservancy. When these waters emerge, they provide the nutrients needed to promote abundant aquatic growth.

That growth, in turn, provides an ecosystem teeming with insects. In the flows of Silver Creek, fortunately, mayflies are the featured, permanent residents -- and trout love mayflies. Hatches are abundant and diverse. Pale morning duns, callibaetis, baetis, tricos, mahogany duns and brown drakes arrive at varying times throughout the summer and into fall. Caddis, some golden stones, and a few green drakes also inhabit these waters. Midges, scuds and aquatic worms provide available sources of protein for rainbows and browns here. For chunky browns and rainbows, red-sided shiners are also a food source.

For those not familiar with the term "spring creek," some clarification is required. In the case of Silver Creek, you must understand that the word "spring" can be misleading. Silver Creek isn't a true spring creek. Rather, its tributaries arise from the emergence of an underground aquifer. At many locations, "the Creek" (as locals call it), is 30 feet or greater in width. The force of its current is minimal, since for the most part, it's a shallow, slow-moving stream that flows across a wide valley with minimal gradient.

Silver Creek is famous because of the area owned by the Nature Conservancy. In 1975, the Conservancy purchased from the Sun Valley Company the 479 acres that form the core of Silver Creek Preserve. Previously, the area had been used as a fishing and hunting retreat for guests visiting at Sun Valley Lodge. Since 1975, an additional 403 acres have been added. In addition, the Nature Conservancy has partnered with neighboring ranchers and farmers to protect 9,500 acres, accomplished through conservation easements. Fences have been constructed to keep livestock away from Silver Creek and feeder streams, to safeguard riparian areas. Some shrubs and trees have also been established to improve habitat. The Nature Conservancy assists with habitat improvements on easement lands.

Fishermen aren't the only creatures that enjoy Silver Creek. The diverse ecosystem comprises shrubs, riparian forests and wetlands, making this area unique. Because of its lush habitat, more than 150 species of birds visit Silver Creek Preserve at various times of the year. Deer, elk, cottontail rabbits, jack rabbits, eagles, beavers, otters, muskrats, geese and ducks are commonly viewed at different seasons of the year at the Conservancy and in the surrounding area. The wildlife display at Silver Creek is so amazing that many people who aren't interested in fishing come just to see the numerous animals and to enjoy the beauty of the area.