Update: We are collecting here at the store for our spring rainbow stocking, but this year we have a little twist. For every donation of $20 or more we will be issuing a raffle ticket, which will get you entered in a drawing for some great prizes (guided float trip, complete rod/reel outfit, spey casting lessons, etc.). So help us stock some big fish this spring to supplement this great fishery.
This week is a temperature roller coaster with warmer temps today and tomorrow, colder days in middle of the week and really warming up this weekend! Should be a good week for those of you looking to get a head start on the season.
River Flow 733 CFS - Visibility clear - AM Water Temp 33'F. - The water is clear of ice and slush and at a great flow for fishing. You'll want to work the deeper pools, but probably avoid some of the slushy sections.
Now for the fishing conditions. The river is at 653 CFS. This is a great level for fishing. The holdover fish will be looking to eat after the tough summer and fall they just went through. Search the pools with Big Streamers to find fish. Then nymph the same area with size 8 Stonefly Nymphs. Don't forget to use some early black and brown stoneflies also as they are on the water. The days are getting longer and the sun is stronger. This helps to bring up the river water temps. As the river warms the fish are going to be more active. Remember these fish have not had any real fishing pressure since November. Check our website or call the shop for daily updates on river conditions. Now is the time to start going thru your fly vest. Clean out the old leaders & tippet spools. Then replace them with fresh. Reorganize your flies into new boxes. Check to see how much floatant, lead shot, strike indicators, tippet rings are left over from last year or bring your gear into the shop and we can help you tune it up for the coming season. If your fly line is becoming stiff or cracked it's time to change it. You can bring your fly reel to the shop and we can machine wind a new fly line with free backing !!
We like the following patterns: Zonkers, Woolly Buggers, Pick Yur' Pocket, Hares Ear (12-16), BH Princes (10-16), BH Pheasant Tails (12-18), Rubber Legs (all colors), 20 Incher's (8-16) & Euro Bead Head Princes. Don't forget to try a San Juan or Yellow Stone Mop Fly, too. We recommend a drop rig for maximum effectiveness and use an indicator to make sure you don't miss any takes. Try the AirLock indicators if you haven't already. They are the best!
We've got upcoming fly tying events for March, so check our events page.
We are going to have Aaron Jasper back in May for another Euro Nymping Clinic !! Call the shop to sign up as space is limited. We also have Matt Supinski coming into town to do his Selectivity clinic in May also. These clinics are not something you'll want to miss.
Since you're reading our river report, please consider purchasing your gear from us. We are happy to have the opportunity to match any deals out there you may come upon. Give us a call first and let us have the first chance. Thanks!
Our Guides are Ready to Take You Trout Fishing!!! - Don't forget we offer a FULL ROD REPAIR SERVICE Bamboo, Graphite and Glass. - Reel Seat Replacement, Cork Grip Repairs, Guide Replacement, Rod Wrapping and Rod Finishing. - Repair your old favorite rods and fish them again!!
Start thinking about spring and book your guided fishing trips now! The best time to get out in the spring is Late April to Mid May and these dates always fill up fast so don't wait! We want to thank all of you for a great season this year and look forward to providing you with a great fishing experience again in the new year. A BIG THANK YOU from all of our guides!
Don't forget we buy, sell or trade used and antique fishing equipment rods, reels, lines, duck and fish decoys, fishing lures, books, artwork, collectibles and tying materials/tools. If you are looking to trade in, sell, or are just scaling down as they say, bring your items in or take pictures and email them to us and we will happily purchase or offer a trade up. I have been purchasing and selling used and collectible items for over 25 years and our fishing/hunting library in the store is the finest and largest probably in the country. We will happily show you the value of your items and then offer trade-in or purchase prices. So give us a call (860-672-1010) or send and email (hflyshop@aol.com). We also purchase estates and will gladly come over to your house to assess the value of your collection and purchase the entire collection.