Fishing on the Metolius the last two weeks has been pretty typical for this time of year. Some days are on and some days are off. The weather over the next two weeks looks to be wet with sporadic temperatures. As far as dry flies go I would definitely have some Blue Winged Olive patterns in your box. We have some great patterns in the shop for imitating BWOs including the Tilt Wing, Hackle Stacker, Comparadun, and many others. We have also seen a dark caddis hatching sporadically, especially on the warmer days. As far as nymphs go as mentioned in our previous winter fishing reports, a stonefly is hard to beat. Don’t forget that stoneflies come in many sizes, having some smaller patterns in your box can be beneficial. BWO nymphs can consistently work in the back eddies. Even if you aren’t seeing adult October Caddis, try out a pupa as they will be in the drift as we start moving into spring and are likely to hatch on wet, overcast days. Besides those flies Green Drake nymphs, an array of Mayfly nymphs, and caddis larva all have their place in your Metolius box. Don’t forget your raincoat and go get after some trout as the fishing heats up heading into spring!  

Suggested Dries: Purple Haze #14-18, Hackle Stacker Baetis #18-20, Parachute Baetis #16-20, Tiltwing #18-20, Comparadun #16-22

Suggested Nymphs: Lex’s Improved Golden Stone #8-10, Poxyback Golden Stone #8-10, Green Drake Nymph #12-14, Deep October Caddis Pupa #10-12, Red or Black Copper John #14-18, Red or Black Lightning Bug #14-18, Red or Black Two Bit Hooker #16-20, Guide’s Choice Hare’s Ear #14-18, Slim Shady Olive #18-20, FB Pheasant Tail #14-18, Micro Mayfly #16-20, Pearl or Red Rainbow Warrior #16-20, Copper Microstone #14-18