From: 06/07/2017
To: 06/07/2017
Type of Water: Freshwater
Species: Rainbow trout, Brown trout, Brook trout, Cutthroat, Grayling , Whitefish, Fine Spotted Cutthroat
“Drake is a term of European origin generally applied to a mayfly larger than size 14, and they are considered royalty by fly fishers wherever they exist.”
– Rene Harrop
The Brown Drakes have made their appearance on the Creek and have been stronger than we have seen in years. This is a short lived hatch, but there are still going to be a few good nights before the next cold front hits later this week. The key to this hatch is being in the right spot at the right time. Remember, this hatch starts in the lower reaches of the river around the Picabo Bridge, and then progresses up the river to the Highway 20 Bridge. The emergence is typically right at dark and can be accompanied by a spinner fall; however, spinner falls can happen anytime during the day just to add to the unpredicta View more...“Drake is a term of European origin generally applied to a mayfly larger than size 14, and they are considered royalty by fly fishers wherever they exist.”
– Rene Harrop
The Brown Drakes have made their appearance on the Creek and have been stronger than we have seen in years. This is a short lived hatch, but there are still going to be a few good nights before the next cold front hits later this week. The key to this hatch is being in the right spot at the right time. Remember, this hatch starts in the lower reaches of the river around the Picabo Bridge, and then progresses up the river to the Highway 20 Bridge. The emergence is typically right at dark and can be accompanied by a spinner fall; however, spinner falls can happen anytime during the day just to add to the unpredictable nature of this hatch. If you are planning on catching this hatch, come on by the shop for the latest reports and check out our great selection of Brown Drake patterns. And, as always, please respect private land and your fellow anglers.
SILVER CREEK
In contrast to the plague of bugs that occur during the evening Brown Drake hatch on the lower Creek, the rest of the early June hatches on the Upper Creek can be sporadic. Still, this is a great time to find some solitary moments on the Preserve before the Trico madness gains momentum in July. Be sure to go with a good selection of PMDs, Baetis, and Callibaetis. Of course, it is never too early to start tossing ants and beetles during non hatch times. Also, be prepared to experiment with a variety of other techniques when there are no bugs about. The fish will be feeding most of the day this time of year on a variety of mayfly nymphs, scuds, damsel nymphs, and leeches. In the evening, caddis, along with mosquitoes, have been prolific and it is certainly worth fishing into the twilight as we are heading towards the longest day of the year.
STILLWATER OPTIONS
If you are looking for an alternative to Silver Creek, both Magic and the Little Wood reservoirs are both full to the brim with water and fishing quite well. You can fish from shore or a float tube with ease, just be aware of the spring winds that can make boating unsafe. Another great Stillwater option is the Duck Valley Indian Reservation. If you have a day or two, this is definitely worth the trip. This fishery is managed by the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes and has three different reservoirs to pick from: Mountain View, Lake Billy Shaw, and Sheep Creek. For a small fee, you can fish all three and camping facilities are available for an additional fee. As for techniques in all these reservoirs, try pulling a team of small leech patterns in black, brown or olive on an intermediate or type 3 or 5 sinking line. Often spring trout are feeding on Daphnia, aka freshwater plankton, and a leech is a welcome meal. Sheep Creek Specials always seem to work in Duck Valley. Also, suspending a series of nymphs or chironomids at the right depth can also be effective at both locations. Come on by the shop and we can set you up.
THE UPPER LOST
Trail Creek Pass remains closed due to mudslides and avalanche debris. When, and if, it will open depends on the extent of the damage. We are hopeful that it will open in late June or early July. This drainage has a tad less snow than the Big Wood, but runoff will keep this area un-fishable for much of June.
THIS BIG LOST BELOW MACKAY
The flows have exceeded 2,000 CFS. We will now need to wait until August before we see wadable flows again on this fishery.
THE BIG WOOD
The Wood and all its tributaries continue to flow above flood stage. Forecasts are predicting cooler temperatures for much of June. This will slow the snow melt and the water may start to clear north of town and some side channels nay start to fish. In the meanwhile, it is best to stay clear of the Wood.
SOUTH FORK OF THE BOISE
The flows continue to go even higher as more water pours into Anderson. Floating is not recommended at these levels. The water is swift and cold, and a simple mistake could be fatal.
