It’s really been hit or miss on the river as of late. The warm weather has played havoc with the river levels, producing daily changes of 100 to 200 cubic feet per second (cfs). Much of the time, I expect the river to be between 1300 and 1400 cfs, but it’s been bouncing in the 1750 to over 2000 cfs range. Today, it finally dropped below 1700 cfs for the first time in a couple of weeks.
I seem to be taking more pictures while I wait for some action. In fact, the number of pictures I take is directly proportional to fish rising…more fish, fewer pictures!
I’ve seen lots of Caddis on the streamside vegetation, but haven’t observed any fish eating them as they flit around. Here are a couple I found in the shade. I was able to move leaves and grass to allow a little sun for light.
The next set of images are of an empty nymphal shuck and a Little Green Stone about size 16. The nymphal shuck isn’t too dried up, which tells me a Mayfly hatched recently. The Stonefly on the right is often mistaken for a Caddis as its wings flutter while floating down the river. Yes, the fish notice this activity and rise to these naturals.
I’ll close with a few images of flying ants (termites or carpenter ants?). You’ll find them in the water this time of year and the fish LOVE them!
I found this little guy in my backyard, but it’s exactly like those I see on the river.
I hope the river settles down in the near future as the mountain snow continues to melt. I’d like to see a few more fish rising!
Enjoy…go fish!
