We’re rolling through summer on the South Fork, and things are starting to shift. Flows have dropped to 10,700 cfs out of Palisades Dam, water clarity remains excellent. Lower water levels are helping kick the Mutant Golden Stone hatch into gear—and with a change in the forecast, we’ve got even more to look forward to. Starting Monday, highs will cool into the 70s with a chance of rain. That means it’s time to dust off the Blue Winged Olive box—our first hatches of the season should appear with the cloud cover.
With cooler weather on the way, streamer fishing will also heat up. Early mornings, evenings, and overcast days will be prime time to move big fish. Target cutbanks, deep holes, and structure with articulated patterns or smaller sculpin imitations. Stick with it, and you’ve got a good shot at the fish of the week.
Nymphing continues to be steady and productive, especially during the bright afternoons. Two-fly rigs under an indicator are still the go-to for guides. Rubberlegs are a must to imitate Golden and Mutant Stones, paired with droppers like Duracells, Perdigons, or Tungsten Pheasant Tails in sizes 14–18. As fish adjust to dropping flows, look for them shifting into softer water.
The Mutant Golden Stone bite is here. These bugs emerge at night and skitter across the water at dawn, offering some of the most exciting fishing of the season. Get on the water early, twitch a big foam bug across shallow gravel bars, and be ready for explosive eats. With cooler, cloudy weather ahead, expect the first Blue Winged Olives to show up—small mayflies in the film that bring picky fish up in the afternoons. Don’t forget your hoppers, ants, beetles, for midday options. For those out on the water late we are still seeing a good caddis hatch.
Need the right patterns, gear, or advice? Stop by the shop—we’ll point you in the right direction. Tight lines!
Save the Date – August 22: South Fork Gala
Join us for a night of fun and giving back to the river we love. The South Fork Gala supports the South Fork Initiative in partnership with the Henry’s Fork Foundation. Learn more and get involved here.
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