The Bench Beckons.

 

Let there be no doubt about it, day after day of hot, dry and sunny weather, coupled with reduced releases and increased fishing pressure have made catching a fish cause for celebration. Even the DRC's glut of "fish of the day" pictures came to a screeching halt yesterday. The bright sun coupled with low water levels has resulted in the freestones (BK, BR, and BE) all being well over 70 degrees for an extended period this afternoon/evening. Tomorrow is predicted to be cooler but Thursday and Friday's 90 degree predictions will send their water temps well into the 70's, unless the scheduled max releases are started. Have heard rumblings that because of the current draught conditions the max releases may be cut back or the entire project may be put off for another year.

The fishing - Is just plain tough. There are both bugs and rising fish early and late. Where you are fishing dictates what flies you will see. Based on the last three days it doesn't seem to matter what flies are hatching, You need to go small, very small. Why? Every fish in the river has been caught, most many times, none of them are currently eating big flies. Why? They have hooks in 'em. Think small, 20s, 22's and throw at the risers (early and late). Mid-day do whatever makes you happy (fishing won't). If we get the scheduled max releases on June first all will change, if the releases continue at current levels and it doesn't rain and cool down, I'm going to paint the fly-tying room, 'nuff said.

The bugs - They are all happening, many after dark (both hatches and spinner falls). 

  

Comments

  1. John HMay 30, 2023 at 3:52 PM

    Thanks again for the update. If nothing else it makes me feel better about myself.

    Been fishing the upper Br in the evening but it’s been tough until about 8:30, then good for 45 minutes. I need to be more efficient.

    Also fishing as early as possible on the BE. Had a nice brown drake spinner fall yesterday morning.

    Today I tried the upper west for the first time in a long time. TroutFitters was very helpful and the flies are beautiful. Fished by the TU parking area. It was quiet except for a furious 15 minutes when stoneflies dropped, about a size 12 darkish one. Beautiful water, but kinda crowded. Drift boats were very polite, I must say.

    Question if I may…….how close can you get to the trout in the upper west in the faster water? I am thinking I may have been casting too far.

    Again, thanks for the reports!

    ReplyDelete

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