The Metolius River had some excellent fishing last week. This week it will likely continue; however, many of the early fall hatches are phasing out. The weather is turning fast, this week there are a few days where it may snow out there. You can expect the most insect activity around midday. Green drakes are mostly done for the year, but keep a could in your box just in case. October caddis are out in droves, the best time to fish the dries is near dawn or dusk. Pale morning duns are phasing out but you may see them every now and then. Blue wing olive season is upon us, this hatch can be insanely fun throughout the whole winter. The kokanee are everywhere and the resident fish will be sucking down as many eggs as they can. Egg patterns are the way to go, fish them below a shallow run or riffle. Sometimes it can be difficult to fool fish with anything other than eggs this time of year. October caddis pupa are sure to be in the drift. Stonefly nymphs are almost always consistent on the Metolius. Fishing slim shady patterns in a blue wing olive hatch is a great idea. Euro-style nymphs are always a good option. Bull trout fishing is great with streamers. It’s game time out there, don’t miss out.
Suggested Dries: Last Chance Green Drake #10-12, Carnage Drake #10-14, Double Decker Green Drake #10-12, X-Stimulator #8-12, Black, Tan or Olive Elk Hair Caddis #14-20, Black, Tan or Olive Foam Caddis #14-20, Purple Haze #14-18, Tilt Wing PMD #14-18, Parachute PMD #14-18, Hackle Stacker Baetis #18-20, Parachute Baetis #16-20.
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, Split Back PMD #18, Slim Shady Baetis #18, FB Pheasant Tail #14-18, Micro Mayfly #16-20, Pearl or Red Rainbow Warrior #16-20, Copper Microstone #14-18