Friday, July 27, 2012

Fishing Report


By BILL MASON

Finally, all river systems are in prime shape, which now makes for endless choices as to where to wet a line. Hatches could be stronger on some waters but on the other hand, they are certainly not needed to catch fish. In short, there is nothing tricky out there and simple, standard fly patterns are the norm to catch a few fish. That said, let's get right to what you can find.

SILVER CREEK— Fishing has been good but as of yet, I can't say the bug hatches have been overwhelming. Trico is seen but as yet, it is adequate but not heavy. A Dave's CDC Trico Spinner #22 will take fish. Beatis spinners are also present in the morning and Mason Quill Beatis Spinner #22 is like presenting cotton candy to the fish. It is also the time of year I prepare myself for PMD spinners that can fall in the middle of Trico. If this happens, a Gray/Yellow or a Slate/Tan No Hackle #16-18 can be deadly. In the late afternoon and evening, Callibeatis spinners and PMD's are seen and a Partridge Spinner #16 and a Para PMD #18 should do the job. Let's just hope that Trico intensifies to its past glories.

BIG WOOD RIVER— Water levels are now in prime condition for both wading and areas to fish. Hatches are seen (Pink Duns Heptagenia), Cream Duns (E. deceptivus), (Beatis) in the afternoon but standard fly patterns are really all you need for success. Para Adams #14-16, Pink Albert's #14-16, Para Purple Haze #16 and Yellow Stimulators #14 will move fish on the surface. For those so inclined and looking for bigger fish, Prince Nymphs #10-12 and Copper Johns #12 will do the job.

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WARM SPRINGS/TRAIL CREEK— Both are in great shape and fishing quite nicely. No mysteries here in choosing flies and Wood River patterns should suffice. The only change I would make is dropping down one size for better success.

BIG LOST DRAINAGES— On the upper river, particularly the North Fork that is planted with fish, is fishing quite nicely. Lesser so on the East Fork, it has also been very active as well. With the addition of Hopper patterns, Wood River flies should do the job. Although it is not at prime levels (400 cfs my target height), the lower river has actually dropped a bit making for some easier wading. Nymphing is still the norm and a Prince Nymph #10-12, Copper Johns #12 and San Juan Worms will always be your best bet. Look for Crane Fly's skating on the surface and a Mackay Special will bring some jolting strikes.

PENNY LAKE/LAKE CREEK/GAVER'S LAGOON (HAYSPUR)— All are planted with fish on a weekly basis and bait and flies will work well.

SOUTH FORK OF THE BOISE— At 1800 cfs, wading the river, only in very selected places, is still very difficult. Salmon Fly hatch was very strong but now that it has gone through, fishing has slowed, with only a few Pink Albert's being seen in the afternoon. With this much water, it's tough for the fish to key on the bugs. If you are going, Hopper patterns might be your best bet but floating the river will also be your key to success.




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