Flows have been slowly dropping, currently we’re sitting at 54 CFS and presentation will continue to increase in importance as flows continue to drop. Things have slowed a little from the non-stop dry fly action that resulted from the incredibly consistent BWO hatch and cloudy cool weather, but there are still plenty of fish looking towards the surface. Lengthening the leader a little and emphasizing delicate presentation can greatly improve numbers when dry fly fishing, there have been a lot of people fishing the Crooked and fish are a little less reckless than they have been. With the nicer weather in the forecast I wouldn’t be surprised to see PMDs work their way back into the mix as a predominant food source, it will depend on the day and it would be wise to come prepared with a variety of Mayfly dries for both BWOs and PMDs.
We’ve also been doing a fair amount more nymphing with the changes in conditions; Midges, Scuds, and small Mayfly patterns have all been producing consistently. Again, presentation is important and the use of a light indicator or dry fly in its place can increase success in the lower water.
Suggested Dries: BWO Sparkle Dun #18-20, Parachute BWO #18-20, Hackle Stacker BWO #18-20, Purple Haze # 18-20, Tilt Wing PMD #16-20, Parachute PMD #16-20, Sparkle Dun PMD #16-20, Tilt Wing Mahogany #16-18, Parachute Adams #16-20
Suggested Nymphs: Black Beadwing Midge #18-22, Black Winkers Midge #18-22, Black or Purple Zebra Midge #18-22, Tan or Grey Ray Charles #16-18, Black or Red Two Bit Hooker #16-20, Micro Mayfly #16-20, Olive Soft Hackle #16-20, Olive Anato-May #16-20,Guide’s Choice Hare’s Ear #16-18, Olive BH Scud #18