Combine sunny skies and temps in the mid 40s to near 50' and President's Day Weekend and you can't go wrong! Get out on the water this weekend and you won't be disappointed. Or drop in and grab a pair of snowshoes and enjoy some trail time. We have some great nymphing outfits on sale this weekend so come by the shop and get setup right for 2017!
Today's forecast: Today will be a sunny day with a high of 32'. There will be a northwest wind 11-14 mph. Tomorrow and Sunday will be the best days with a light southwest wind driving temps near 50'.
Now for the fishing conditions. The river is at 632 CFS and clear. While there may be some slush or ice around rocks in the slower sections today the water is in a great state to fish. Look for the deeper pools and channels as the fish are located in these spots. In general, this time of the year you do well to wait until the sun gets on the water for a bit to help warm it up some. We suggest starting later in the morning with some big streamers and search the water. Strip these slowly as the fish are sluggish and not willing to move too far. All colors of streamers are effective at times, so swap out and modify your retrieve if you don't get any takes. We are seeing our small black stoneflies starting to show up so make sure you have some of these in your boxes (size 14-18). Egg patterns dropped behind a big stonefly (8-12) are also very effective this time of the year. Trail the egg about 18" behind the stonefly so it gently rolls through the water. Winter black stones are starting to appear so you'll want to have a few of these (size 14-18).
In addition to the stoneflies mentioned above, we like the following patterns: Hares Ear (12-16), BH Princes (10-16), BH Pheasant Tails (12-18), Rubber Legs (all colors), 20 Incher's (8-16) & Euro Bead Head Princes. Don't forget to try a San Juan or Squirmy Worm too. We recommend a drop rig for maximum effectiveness and use an indicator to make sure you don't miss any takes. Try the AirLock indicators if you haven't already. They are the best!
Since you're reading our river report, please consider purchasing your gear from us. We are happy to have the opportunity to match any deals out there you may come upon. Give us a call first and let us have the first chance. Thanks!
Start thinking about spring and book your guided fishing trips now! The best time to get out in the spring is Late April to Mid May and these dates always fill up fast so don't wait! We want to thank all of you for a great season this year and look forward to providing you with a great fishing experience again in the new year. A BIG THANK YOU from all of our guides!
Don't forget we buy, sell or trade used and antique fishing equipment rods, reels, lines, duck and fish decoys, fishing lures, books, artwork, collectibles and tying materials/tools. If you are looking to trade in, sell, or are just scaling down as they say, bring your items in or take pictures and email them to us and we will happily purchase or offer a trade up. I have been purchasing and selling used and collectible items for over 25 years and our fishing/hunting library in the store is the finest and largest probably in the country. We will happily show you the value of your items and then offer trade-in or purchase prices. So give us a call (860-672-1010) or send and email (hflyshop@aol.com). We also purchase estates and will gladly come over to your house to assess the value of your collection and purchase the entire collection.