Post Memorial Day the B.O.R. bumped the flows out of Palisades Dam to 14,000 cfs. The flow was increased to send more water downstream to irrigators as well as to keep flood control storage available in the reservoir. It’s possible we’ll see more increases. Palisades Reservoir is currently at 85% capacity with approximately 17,000 cfs coming into the reservoir.
We are seeing better water clarity than last week as tributary streams are running clearer. The fishing still remains the most consistent below the Dam before the tributaries. Even in the off-color water, we’re catching fish on San Juan worms, egg patterns, rubberlegs, and tungsten thread midges. Streamers can also be effective for dedicated streamer die-hards. Afternoon thundershowers are in the forecast daily so pack that rain gear.
Looking ahead, if I had to guess I’d say the Salmon Fly hatch should be about on time this year with the first bugs showing up on the lower river in late June. It’s really up to the weather now, the more hot/sunny days we get the sooner the bugs will show up. If we revert back to cooler weather that will delay the hatch. Either way, it’s a good bet that the water will be clear by then and flows should be relatively stable. Fingers crossed!
If you need any fly suggestions swing by our shop and chat with Brody and Cole they’ve both been out fishing streamers and nymphs this week and have the shop stocked with all the goodies.
See you on the water!
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