The Metolius River has fished well over the last couple of weeks. These next two weeks are going to be cold and snowy out there, make sure you’re prepared. Don’t let cool temperatures stop you from fishing. The best blue wing olive hatches of the season can happen when it’s 25 degrees and dumping snow. The hatch usually happens around 12 or 1 on most days. Fishing subsurface is most productive when surface activity is sparse. In the mornings and early afternoon, baetis nymphs are excellent. Otherwise, use nymphs that you’re confident in or an egg, whitefish are spawning. Semi-realistic stonefly nymphs work well in the winter as do a variety of jigged euro nymphs. Remember that different nymphs utilize different aquatic habitats. Stoneflies might not work in a sandy glide as well as a small mayfly nymph imitation. Adversely, sometimes fish won’t be interested in anything but stoneflies in fast rocky riffles. Snowy quiet days on the Metolius are sacred, have a great time out there.
Recommended Dries: Hackle Stacker BWO #18-22, Parachute BWO #16-20, Black or Tan Elk Hair Caddis #12-20, X-Caddis #12-20
Recommended Nymphs: Black or Brown Jimmy Legs #8, Deep October Caddis Pupa #10-12, Jigged Hares Ear #14-16, Jigged Pheasant Tail #14-16, Psycho Prince #14-16, Duracell Jig #14-18, Copper John #14-18, JuJu Baetis #16-22, Slim Shady Olive #18-20, Olive or Tan Sparkle Pupa #16-18, Nitro Caddis Pupa #16-18