Wednesday, June 2, 2004

Fishing Report

by Bill Mason

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So much for the weatherman and his dismal Memorial Day weekend report of snow. Although it was cool, it was not only pleasant to be on a trout stream, it was productive in most places. As the weather warms this week and a few hatches appear, the fishing should get even better.

 

SILVER CREEK—Although the holiday was windy and cool, the Creek fished reasonably well despite the fact that there was little in the way of hatches which resulted in not much surface feeding. The PMDs were strong about a week prior to the opening but failed to be much of a factor this past weekend. But as I have pointed out in the past, this is and will be typical for this time of the year.

The good news is that anglers found fish. That makes us all happy. Most fish were taken below the surface, using various dropper combinations. Hares Ear #16, Regular and Flashback Pheasant Tail’s #16 and PMD nymph #14, seem to be doing the best. Regardless, PMD hatches, although inconsistent, can appear and it is always wise to carry not only some PMD Parachutes #16-18 but some Callibeatis Duns and Spinner patterns as well.

Because the weather is predicted to get much warmer as the week progresses, I would begin to look for the Brown Drake this coming weekend. How many fish will be found feeding to it is now a question, but because of its significance, it’s certainly worth checking out. Brown Drake Dun #10 patterns and perhaps most importantly, Brown Drake Nymphs and Cripples #10 should be carried. Spinner patterns should also be included, but not until next week. Just hope the wind does not blow.

BIG WOOD RIVER—Depending on your choice of method, the Big Wood fished quite well. Surface activity was pretty non-existent, so most fish were taken using Bead Head Wooly Buggers and Cone Head Streamers. Nymphs worked reasonably well but not as well as anticipated. Regular and Bead Head Prince and Copper John’s #10-12 seem to do the best. The warmer weather might help the dry fly fishing and large Para Adams, Hares Ear’s might move some fish. It is still carrying some water so be careful out there.

BIG LOST—Fishing just OK. Not great but not that bad. At 363 cfs, it’s carrying just enough water to make maneuvering and fishing a little tough. Copper Johns, Regular and Rubber Leg Prince Nymphs and big Flashback Pheasant Tails #8-10, took fish. Some Caddis were spotted but nothing seemed to be working on them. But then again, it’s early.

PENNY LAKE/LAKE CREEK—No real report but probably fishing quite well fishing for planted fish using both bait, spinners and flies. Should continue to do so for the next week.

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