Just a reminder Rainbows are still spawning, so watch your step!
The water levels are still going up and down, which has made the fishing a bit of a grind. We are still seeing some small BWO’s on the water and Caddis and PMD’s are hatching but not in large numbers at the moment. Fish are being caught in the deep tail outs on streamers, and deep heavy nymph rigs. The water has got a little cloudy but it still has a fair amount of visibility above the Highwood River confluence. The most effective patterns are still stonefly nymphs, worms, and leeches, but hopefully the nice weather this weekend gets some fish looking up. If you see rising fish I would try fishing a mid-sized PMD or Caddis pattern, or emerging patterns for both species. Good luck this weekend folks!
How to attack the river:
- Deflections pools close to shore
- Slow seams and inside bends
- Tailouts below riffles
- Baetis and Blue Winged Olives (sizes 14-18)
- Caddis Nmphs (size 12-16)
- San Juan Worms
- Small leeches
- Bloodworms
- Black Copper John
- Blue Winged Olive adults or emegers
- Caddis adults (size 12-16)
Things to remember no matter the fishing technique:
- Use sink tips or heavily weighted flies
- Focus on deep bends, structure, and winter holding water
- Slow, deliberate retrieves are key
Safety Considerations:
- Dress appropriately for it may not be cold weather wise, but prolonged wading can wear on you.
- Don't forget to wear sun protection at this time of year, though it may not always be hot you can still burn easily being out all day.
