Flows have been bumped up slightly to 9,200 cfs. Palisades reservoir is 73% full and water temps remain cool, below 60 degrees on the upper river. Flows are getting closer to average for this time of year after a few weeks of below average flows. The Henry’s Fork Foundation put together an excellent blog post about the lower than normal flows that you can read here.
Out on the river we’re starting to see our first mutant golden stones of the year. These bugs are most active in the early morning hours so getting out first thing and skating your favorite foam imitation works well. The MFC Water Walker Golden is a great fly for these morning missions. Daily hatches of PMD’s and Caddis have been keeping the riffle fishing productive, and technical. Have your A-game ready, this is my favorite type of fishing but it can be frustrating as the fish key in on specific bugs in a specific stage of their lifecycle in the water column. With cooler days in the forecast and some showers possible I wouldn’t overlook streamers late in the day or when the clouds come out. On bright sunny afternoons expect a lull in action after the PMD’s and before the evening hatch. Terrestrials are also fishing well, hoppers on the lower river and don’t be afraid to fish an ant or beetle through a foam line or riffle. A foam beetle with a small PMD emerger behind it can be some fun riffle candy to try out.
If you have questions about where to float, or need a license, flies etc. Give our shop a call or swing by 208.483.2727. Have fun on the water.