The Metolius has held up well even throughout last weeks cold snap. There wasn’t much fishing to be had for a few days as even the day time highs didn’t get out of the 20’s. But all of those springs hold the river temps pretty steady and that is lucky for us.
BWO’s, October Caddis, Snow Sedge, Silver Stripe Sedge, smaller (#14’ish) Gray Caddis, some Little Black Stones and some Midges round out what you’ll see on top or flying around.
Think about the complete life cycle for all of those: What is the habit of the nymphs? What size shape and color are the nymphs? Mayfly nymphs emerge to the surface in almost all species (exceptions are clinger nymphs like cinygmula and march browns). Caddis and Midges have a pupa stage. How can we imitate that? Carry nymphs and pupa’s to imitate all the hatches and you’ll be ahead of the game for sure. I can’t emphasize enough how important that is.
Golden Stone nymphs, scuds, egg flies are also really great this time of year.
Bull Trout fishing is good on streamers. I’ve been hearing from customers in the shop that smaller leeches with an indicator have been producing some good catches of Bulls. Definitely worth the time to try it. Our good friend and customer NC Phil has been getting a fair share of Bull’s euro nymphing big caddis type nymphs.
Please remember to not fish above Allingham Bridge until May 22. That’s critical spawning water and needs protected. Also, I have noticed a marked increase of OSP Fish and Game and Jefferson County Sheriff’s patrols. I love this.