Snake River - Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Last week the Bureau of Reclamation started its 2005 freshet for the upper Snake. Jackson Lake Dam release should peak at around 4500cfs today or tomorrow, the 15th or 16th. As we mentioned in our last report, the Bureau of Rec. is projecting a sustained 2000cfs summer flow and it should be down to that level June 20th or the 21st. The last week and a half has been wet and cold and this curtailed valley run-off. Some of our tributaries have cleared considerably and are now fishable. We still have a snowpack of around 80%, so as soon as we get warm weather expect run-off to kick back in. But for right now Pacific Creek, Lower Flat Creek, and the Gros Ventre are fishable. Streamer fishing has been the technique DuJour.

The area lakes are still fishing well, but you might consider a boat, float tube, or pontoon boat for getting off the shoreline. Also, I think you will find sinking lines a benefit, be it a sink-tip or full-sinking. The fishing on Jackson, Jenny, and Phelps has been very consistent. As of yet, our usually reliable Flying Black Ant hatch hasn’t shown, so most of the fishing has still been under the surface, with Wooly Buggers, Zonkers, Mohair and Marabou Leeches being main producers. It is understandable with the wet conditions June has brought, that this hatch has been delayed. Warmer weather has been predicted for this week, and this may bring these big delightful terrestrials into play.

As always, for the most up-to-the-minute conditions contact us at (307) 733-7210.

Until next time,

Howard Cole
High Country Flies