Fishing Report – The Lodge at Palisades Creek
Flows on the South Fork have held steady this week at around 11,800 cfs. With warm, sunny weather in the forecast, the fishing continues to improve by the day. This trend should hold through the month, building toward the highly anticipated Salmonfly hatch in the latter part of June.
Right now, two distinct nymphing strategies are producing fish. You’ve got your “down and dirty” bugs—worms, eggs, big rubberlegs, and the like—and then you’ve got your more tactical approach: smaller, more technical nymphs in the size 16–20 (or even 22) range. Think midges, BWOs, and caddis patterns.
Over the past few years, I’ve leaned into the stealthy, tailwater-style approach, and it’s been paying off. I’ve been pulling fish out of spots I wasn’t even sure held fish. While many anglers and guides are still having success with the standard big bugs, I can’t help but wonder if some fish are getting wise. Maybe I’m wrong—maybe those anglers are really getting ’em. But hey, that’s part of the fun: testing theories and seeing what works. Isn’t that what fly fishing’s all about?
Swing by our Swan Valley fly shop if you want to continue this conversation and pick out some bugs. Our dining room is open for reservations, we’ve got guides and lodging available as well. We’d love to see you.
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