Snake River
We’ve been waiting all summer and they’re finally here,
low flows that is. Early in October releases out of Jackson Lake Dam were
stabilized at the winter norm of 280 cfs, down from 3800 cfs in late September.
Flows will remain at this level, and we look for good fishing, for the
remainder of the season.
The good news is that with the lower flows has come an
increase in the number of larger trout willing to feed on dry flies. Some days
have seen a decided preference for larger hopper-style patterns while on
others, the bigger trout will only go for smaller mayfly patterns. Any way you
shake it, the big guys are on the prowl and they’re fat, dumb and happy. And
vividly decorated I might add, with golden bellies and bright orange fins.
Cloudy days, in particular, have been witness to excellent
mayfly hatches of baetis, tricos and some lingering mahogany duns. Individual
pods of feeding fish can get pretty selective this time of year so be prepared
to match the hatch with small emergers and lighter tippets.
But don’t be misled into believing that dry flies are the
only way to go. Both nymphs and streamers have been productive at times as
well. Beadhead Pheasant Tails, Prince, and Copper John’s have all had their
moments while streamer fishing has been deadly on a given day.
Recommended Patterns
Dry flies: Parachute Hare’s Ear, Power Ants (especially on sunny days with
little or no hatch), Snake Drake, Black or Yellow Tarantulas, Dry Muddler,
Baetis emergers (in size 18).
Nymphs: Beadhead Pheasant Tail, Prince, Copper John’s, and
Red Fox Squirrel Tail, all in size 14-10.
Streamers: McCunes Sculpin, Gartside Soft-Hackle Streamer,
Woolly Buggers and JJ Specials.
Fall Fishing Getaway
For the entire month of October High Country Flies is offering reduced
rates on a special fishing trip package including lodging, dining, and, of
course, guided fishing trips. See
http://www.highcountryflies.com/fall_fishing_getaway_package-Oct_2002.htm
for details.
Until next time…
Guy Turck
High Country Flies
Jackson
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