Our cool and wet Spring has transitioned into a hot and dry Summer. Fortunately, we have cold, clear water flowing out of Palisades Dam, keeping the fish, bugs, and anglers happy. It looks like we could have some afternoon thundershowers today and tomorrow and then Sunday just looks hot with a high of 97. More thunderstorms are forecasted next week. If you’re on the river today and tomorrow and we do get some clouds and showers that should really help the fishing. If you’ve read this report before you know that the fish love clouds.
The flow out of Palisades was dropped today to 11,900 cfs, which is pretty much right on the historical average for the date. The water clarity is really good and we have hatches of Golden Stones, PMDs, and Caddis, and the Terrestrial game is getting rolling as well. The big foam dry/dropper game is in full swing. The fish are getting wise but anglers who keep their bugs where they belong or who can entice with a twitch are winning. Riffle fishing in the afternoons with PMD’s and PMD emergers is very good if you can find a riffle with a hatch coming off. I highly recommend fishing the evening Caddis hatch. The river really comes alive in the hour before dark and continues until you can’t see anymore. The caddis are so big right now that you can see them get munched even in the low light. You can also fish a caddis first thing in the morning as the fish remember what they are and will eat them until the sun hits the water. Hoppers, ants, and beetles are also options for picky riffle fish, grassy banks, etc. A lot of options right now!
Have fun out there and hopefully, we’ll get some rain and you’ll be on the river after the rain passes for a great hatch. Brody, our fly shop manager, pictured above, has all the flies, clothes, tackle, tips, and tricks you need for a successful day on the South Fork. Stop in to see him or call the shop at 208.483.2727.
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