Current Conditions Summary
Winter flows have settled in, and the river has transitioned into its late-autumn rhythm. The fishing remains consistent, but the window of high activity has shortened to the warmest parts of the day. Anglers can expect decent nymphing in the mornings and sporadic dry fly opportunities during midday warmth. Streamer action during low light and overcast days.
Important Note: The Brown Trout spawn is active. Please tread carefully and avoid wading through light gravel patches (Redds) to protect future fish populations.
Flow & Water
- Discharge: ~130 – 150 CFS (Cubic Feet per Second).
- Clarity: Clear
- Water Temp: Mid to high 40s (°F).
- Outlook: Flows are at standard winter levels, and should remain there throughout the winter
Weather & Timing
- Best Window: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
- Weather: Expect crisp mornings with temperatures rising into the 40s or low 50s.
- Strategy: There is no need for an “alpine start.” Sleep in, drink coffee, and hit the water once the sun has had a chance to warm the riverbed. The bug activity will peak when the sun is highest.
Hatches & Bug Activity
The main activity of the river right now is Midges and Baetis (BWOs).
- Midges: The primary food source. Seen hatching most days
- Baetis (BWOs): Expect these on overcast or slightly stormy days. They tend to pop off around 11:30 PM – 2:00 PM.
- Egg Bite: With the spawn active, fish are keying in on eggs and worms
Recommended Flies
Nymphs (Sub-surface)
- Sow Bugs: #18-22 (Grey, Tan, Rainbow)
- Midges: #22-26 (KF Flasher, LED Midge, WD-40s, Bling Midges).
- Egg Patterns: #16-18 (Apricot, Cheese, Pink), San Juan worms
- Mayfly Nymphs: #20-22 (Pheasant Tail, RS2, Micro Mayfly).
Dries (Surface)
- Midges: #18-20 (Griffith’s Gnat, Mother Shucker).
- BWO Dries: #20-24 (CDC Comparadun, Parachute Adams).
Streamers
- Leeches/Buggers: #10-14 (White, Olive)
The Spawn
November is peak spawning season for Brown Trout.
- Identify Redds: Look for patches of clean, bright gravel that look “swept” on the river bottom, usually in shallow tailouts.
- Avoid Fishing to Spawners: If you see a pair of large dark fish holding their ground in shallow water, leave them be. They are reproducing.
- Watch Your Step: Don’t walk through these gravel patches; you will crush the eggs. Cross in deep water or areas with large cobble/rocks.
Good luck out there! Tight lines.