Exploring the rivers of the American West has always been a core part of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life journey. In the summer of 2023, that passion led to the legendary waters of Eastern Idaho — the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River — for a fly-fishing experience filled with breathtaking scenery, unexpected encounters, and unforgettable memories.
This is the story of a day that had it all: powerful trout, bright laughter, and a brush with nature’s wild side.
Chasing a Dream Across the West
The pursuit of great fly-fishing destinations began in 2020 with the purchase of a first motorhome and a dream to roam river to river. A few years later, with the upgrade to a Class A motorhome — Bertie Bea — that dream truly took flight, leading across the Pacific Northwest, down into Texas Hill Country, and finally, to Idaho’s fabled Henry’s Fork.
Known for its prolific trout waters and historic fly-fishing pedigree, the Henry’s Fork had been on the list from the very beginning — and it was time to make that vision a reality.
Floating Box Canyon
Launching early one crisp morning from Island Park Dam, the drift boat crew included longtime friend Jeff Roper, a well-known local television and radio personality, and expert guide Jon Lewis from TroutHunter Outfitters, whose deep knowledge of the Henry’s Fork was invaluable throughout the day.
The plan was simple: drift the famed Box Canyon stretch, nymph for rainbows, and soak in the river’s wild beauty.
Basalt cliffs towered overhead, while the clear, rushing water offered countless seams and riffles perfect for fly fishing. Eagles and ospreys soared above as the boat quietly slipped through the winding canyon — the kind of morning that reminds travelers why they set out on these journeys in the first place.
Tubers on the Water
About twenty minutes into the float, the unexpected arrived.
A colorful armada of inner tubes, carrying vacationers and locals alike, rounded the bend. Inflatable unicorns, water guns, and sun-soaked laughter filled the canyon, transforming a tranquil drift into a lively and entertaining obstacle course.
Though it added a layer of challenge to the fishing, the spontaneous encounter was a lighthearted highlight — one of those surprises that make every day on the road unique and memorable.
An Osprey’s Perfect Timing
Later that morning, while working a promising seam, a solid rainbow trout took the nymph rig. As the fish was being brought toward the boat, an osprey swooped from the sky with breathtaking speed, snatching the trout — and the fly — right out of the water.
There was nothing to do but laugh and watch in amazement as the bird flew off with its unexpected prize. It was a vivid reminder that the line between angler and nature can blur in spectacular ways on the river.
In fishing, there are always stories about “the one that got away” — but rarely do they end with the fish flying off into the clouds.
A First Trout on the Fly
As the afternoon unfolded, the river offered another memorable moment.
New to the nuances of fly fishing, Jeff Roper landed his first trout on a fly rod — a spirited 14-inch rainbow taken on a dry fly and nymph dropper combination.
Celebrations erupted on the drift boat, and the pure joy on Jeff’s face captured the heart of what fly fishing is all about: connection, patience, and the thrill of that first perfect catch.
It was a memory not just of a fish, but of a milestone — and one that will undoubtedly be shared around many future campfires.
A Night at Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park
After an eventful day on the water, the journey continued south to Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park, a newly opened park built on the historic site of the old Skyview Drive-In Theater.
The park offers:
- Fully paved 100-foot pull-through sites
- Full 50-amp hookups, sewer, and water connections
- Private Wi-Fi hotspots at each site
- Beautiful landscaping with grass and young trees
- A lodge with upscale bathrooms featuring heated floors
- A fenced dog park and pickleball courts
- Direct access to the Snake River’s scenic River Walk trail
Although the nightly rate is on the higher end at around $125, the park’s thoughtful layout, security, and amenities made it a relaxing, comfortable place to recharge after a full day of adventure.
The spacious sites easily accommodated Bertie Bea and the towed vehicle, and the peaceful surroundings provided the perfect end to an unforgettable day.
Reflections on Henry’s Fork
The Henry’s Fork Canyon delivered everything one could hope for in a fly-fishing journey — wild trout, stunning landscapes, laughter shared between good friends, and those rare moments that cannot be planned.
This river, long revered in the fly-fishing world for its technical challenges and natural beauty, lived up to every expectation.
While there wasn’t time to fish the famous Ranch section near Harriman State Park during this visit, it remains on the list for future adventures.
The experience reaffirmed why the wandering lifestyle is so rewarding: not because everything goes precisely as planned, but because of the unexpected joys along the way.
Plan Your Own Adventure
If your travels take you through Eastern Idaho, consider a float through the Box Canyon section of the Henry’s Fork.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting, the river offers something truly special. And when the day winds down, Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park provides an exceptional place to call home for the night.
As always,
Remember — not all who wander are lost.
