Fishing Conditions

The upper basin remains clear and is fishing well so far this week. Fall baetis hatches are underway and these mayflies present in 20-22 in the afternoons. Precipitation in the forecast for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday could prompt some stronger hatches and generate some good dry fly fishing from noon til around 3pm. Nymphs and emergers are productive late morning prior to a hatch. Nighttime temperatures are dropping so there's no need for an early start to fishing this week. Trout behavior will be limited by a drop in water temperatures, so expect mid-day through the afternoon to be the most productive window. Consider nymphing slightly deeper water in the late morning as the eater is warming. Golden stoneflies nymphs average a 8-12 and can be a great choice for an anchor fly. Midges are the predominant hatch outside of the afternoon blue wing olives, though surface feeding on these is less predictable. larva and pupae are good options for dropper flies in a nymph rig. With lower, clear flows you can expect fish to be more discerning so pay attention to available forage so you can closely match the natural insects with your imitations. Attractor patterns can still produce but you may find that realistic patterns are more productive as fish key in on specific food. A careful approach and good first cast can make all the difference between a mediocre and outstanding day of fishing. Streamers are increasingly effective as we move through the fall towards the brown trout spawn.