Still not many changes in our fishing, which makes it more and more difficult to create excitement in my report about angling opportunities. This should change, but for now we will continue to need patience. Fall is coming and the picture should be bright. Currently fishing is quite decent. For our expectations at this time of year, however, it's not up to the standards or the favored techniques required for success. The culprits are spotty hatches, an over-abundance of water and limited water to work your fly. Let's see what this week will bring.
SILVER CREEK—Fishing hasn't been easy, yet it has been very successful for those anglers who are persistent. Depending on where you are, Trico has produced some good results. Dave's Trico Spinner and a Cut-Wing Trico Spinner #22 do the job. Unfortunately, Trico from this point forward will begin to wane (some will say it never got started) and with each passing day and week, you will see less and less of it. Although it's still early, Callibeatis duns (particularly in the early afternoons) will become more and more prominent in the floating sections and a Para Speckled Dun and/or a Speckled Thorax Dun #18 will take fish. If the wind blows a bit, Black Ants and Beatles #14-18 have been deadly. Finally, I wouldn't pass up the opportunity to throw Blue Damsel Flies #8-10 when things are otherwise quiet. You just might bust something of a serious consequence.
BIG WOOD RIVER—Yes, the water is dropping at a very slow rate. But fish and fishing activity have steadily improved. It's just that fishing locations are still somewhat limited and wading is not the easiest of tasks. Surface fishing has been active using Para Adams #14-16, Gulper Specials #14-16, Hemingway Caddis #16 and Para Hares Ear #16 but the fish tend to be small. The larger trout are simply not looking up and as a result, you are going to fish underneath the surface for success in finding them. Reports have been strong, with anglers using Pheasant Tails #10-12, Prince Nymphs #10-12 and Copper Johns #12. It's not fun to cast, but additional weight to get the fly down using small slit-shot may be required. Don't fret, things will improve. I just hope it's not Thanksgiving when we see it.
WARM SPRINGS/TRAIL CREEK—Fish and Game is now planting both on a regular basis but visiting both this past week, I was amazed at how much (especially Warm Springs) water both are carrying. Normally, both are a trickle at this time of year. Yet this is not a normal year. Standard patterns and especially Prince and B.H. Prince Nymphs #12-14, are all successful.
BIG LOST—Fishing on the upper river has been decent but certainly not over the top. The East Fork is higher than normal. Through the grapevine we've heard there are plans to do some heavy stocking in all tributaries this week. It should greatly improve activity. Although hatchery fish are not my cup of tea, they can be quite fun for many anglers. The lower river is still running high for good maneuverability. Remember, anything below 400 cfs (the lower the better) has always been my "go, no-go" line of consideration but if you wish to brave it, good fishing can be had using weighted Prince Nymphs #8-10, Copper Johns#10-12 and Crane Fly Larva #8. Be careful wading.
PENNY LAKE/LAKE CREEK/GAVER'S LAGOON—All are heavily planted, providing good fishing and are a safe place to take kids.
