Clearwater and Salmon rivers are both fall classics for steelhead fishing. Your chances of catching a fish are probably better on the Salmon River, but the fish are bigger on the Clearwater. October's cool mornings and evenings, and warm, sunny afternoons make it the best fishing weather of the season.

Another option: The South Fork of the Boise River is friendlier for wading, and there are fewer people fishing during hunting season.