The weather seems to conspire against weekend warriors as of late. The sunny warm weather we are having today looks to be replaced with a return to winter starting tomorrow and continuing through the weekend. This won’t affect the fishing but makes motivation a bit more difficult. The moisture is welcome! While snowpack levels have improved greatly in the last 30 days (96% of average for the Snake Basin above Palisades) our region is still in a drought. If the weekend storm delivers maybe we’ll see our snowpack hit 100% or better before runoff starts.
The flows were bumped up today at 12:00 to 4,550 cfs up from about 3,800 cfs. I really don’t think this will affect the fishing, in fact with all the moisture we’ve been having and worms on the sidewalks I think the “wormin” will be really good. In addition to worms, there are a lot of midges hatching daily. Your favorite worm pattern trailed by a small midge would probably win the “two fly” contest.
Other notable flies to fish would be egg patterns, rubberlegs, and streamers fished deep and slow. The water is still really cold so keep in mind the fish will be deeper and lower in the runs than you might be used to. Let those flies soak all the way to the bottom of each run.
The Idaho Fish and Game is conducting their Rainbow Trout suppression efforts Mon-Thurs through May 19th. You can see the full schedule here.
Our Swan Valley Fly Shop located next to the new gas station is fully stocked with the best flies, tackle, clothing, and equipment. If you need anything stop in and say hello. You can also call the shop for up-to-the-minute fishing tips at 208.483.2727
If you would like our weekly fishing report delivered right to your email inbox every Thursday afternoon May – October. Sign up HERE