The flow out of Palisades Reservoir dropped 1,000 cfs yesterday to 10,000 cfs. Palisades Reservoir is at 79% capacity. On average, the South Fork peaks in mid-June. Will we see the water go up, or did water managers get it right this year? We will see the water go up again when irrigation demand increases, but I’d say we are probably safe from any drastic changes to the flow.
We’ve seen some very good early-season fishing on the South Fork, and that looks to continue. At these flows, the water is warming up a bit easier, and effectively nymphing and streamer fishing is easier as well. We are still several weeks away from seeing any major dry fly fishing, but each day the bugs get more active and the fish are following that trend.
Stonefly nymphs, various egg patterns, San Juan Worms, Duracells, and other jig-style nymphs have been working well, and anglers who like to “chuck and duck” streamers are moving fish with enough frequency to make it worth it. While many anglers are chasing Salmon Flies on the Henry’s Fork, the South Fork offers a less crowded experience. It won’t be too long now before our guides start poking around more and more on the lower river as the water warms up there first, and we’ll start to see Salmon Flies for ourselves. The earliest I recall seeing Salmon Flies was June 15th on a log jam just above the Menan Buttes in the early 2000s.
Have a great weekend on the water. If you’re interested in a day of fishing or staying with us, please, give us a call 208.483.2222. Our Swan Valley fly shop is open and having a $1.00 fly sale in store and online. You can shop the sale here.
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