If you’ve been to any stretch of any river lately  you’ll notice one common thing:  low water.  Water levels are extremely low right now which means drifting can be a bit more dangerous (watch out for those rocks!) and the fish may be moving into different holes to find better water.  However, it also means that you’ll be able to wade to new spots as well as see parts of the river you’ve never seen so be sure to enjoy the moment and take the opportunity to learn as much about the terrain as you can!

The other observation many folks might have made lately is the plethora of insect activity happening under and above the water.  In the system right now are black leeches, worms, backswimmers, and a number of larvae and pupae (midge, caddis, mayflies.)   Above the surface is a plethora of hatches including midges during the day and blue winged olives later on in the day/evening.   The weather and water have even impacted insects as there have been sightings of hoppers down at McKinnon Flats!  Catching sipping snouts has become the trend lately, so be sure to take your dry flies!

The inner city section of the river was a bit muddy lately, due to some construction at the weir.  Not to worry, fishing has already begun to stabilize and visibility today was about 2′.  While lots of rainbows have moved or are moving to spawn, there are still a number in the main stretch of the river.  Be sure to watch out for redds (spawning beds that are composed of “washed” looking rocks/gravel) and to be extra delicate with any ladies you may catch.  Fish were taken in some of the textbook locations today (e.g. seams, pockets), but also out in the middle flats of the river.  San Juans, blood worms, black copper johns and pheasant tails have been working below surface while bwo’s, adams, and gnats have been working on the surface. 

Water temperatures have remained cool but with warmer temperatures continuing we should to see the fish get more and more active. 

Tight lines!