The fishing on all reaches of the Henry’s Fork continues to improve. The warmer weather of late has really accelerated the slamonfly hatch, and the more reliable golden stones are up and out now, offering anglers some spectacular fly fishing with big dry flies. The caddis hatches continue to intensify and we’re even starting to see some PMD activity on the lower river stretches. Here’s a run down of what’s shakin’ out there.
BOX CANYON: The Box continues to run at around 450cfs. This flow makes for a skinny float, but the fishing in Box canyon has been great. The salmonflies are still hatching and the trout are beginning to respond well to big fluffy dry flies. Fish the middle river during the warmest part of the day for best results. Nymphing with a rubberleg and small beadhead like a pheasant tail, zebra midge or prince nymph will bring plenty of trout to the net. Pull streamers early and late in the day for a chance at a big boy.
LAST CHANCE: Caddis hatches continue to strengthen and we’re still seeing good March Brown and BWO activity. The fish have seen plenty of salmonflies, so have a few of those on hand as well. There are also plenty of terrestrial bugs out already and small ants and beetles are a staple food item of the large Last Chance Rainbows. We should see some PMD’s within the next week….(fingers crossed).
WARM RIVER TO ASHTON: Golden stones, caddis, March Browns, PMD’s, yellow sallies, ants, beetles and other terrestrials are all out making for a smorgasbord of dry fly options. Sure success can be had by either dropping a rubber leg off of a big dry or deep nymphing with small technical nymphs. On cloudier days, or early and late in the day, have a streamer rod rigged for a chance at a large Brown or Rainbow.
LOWER RIVER: The flows from Ashton Dam are currently 1620cfs and 2950cfs below the Fall river confluence. The salmonfly hatch is pretty much wrapped up here, but fish will still respond to a big bug presented tight to the bank, under trees or around structure. Golden stones are the predominant hatch at present. Fish these flies as you would a salmonfly and hold on. We’re seeing good caddis, March Browns, yellow sallies and even some PMD’s too. And as always, don’t forget the streamer box, the alpha trout on the this stretch have a hard time passing up the big meal.
THE LAKES: Henry’s Lake continues to fish well around the boat ramps, springs and creek mouths. Buggers, leeches and streamers in different dressings will bring many a fine trout to your net and hanging a larger midge, pheasant tail or hare’s ear under a high floating dry or indicator is a sure fire bet to trick these fish. We’re also hearing of some fine midge dry fly fishing over on Hebgen lake, so that’s another solid still water option.
Stop by the fly shop for up-to-the-minute fishing conditions, practical advice or to get those”right” flies for your fishing session. See you soon!
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