Ready, Set, Go!

The Yellowstone River’s still high and colored up. But there was plenty enough visibility (at least 1.5 feet) to do some damage yesterday afternoon up in the Paradise Valley. The wading was a bit sporty, with the water up to the willows in places, but nymphing was productive. Although a lot of the fish were whiteys, there were trout mixed in, including a feisty 18″ brown. I caught trout on a size 6 brown Wooly Bugger and a size 16 rust Dirty Bird. Large Rubberlegs (say, size 6 or 4) in brown, black, peacock, or tan/brown should be heating up right now, as the big salmonfly and goldenstone nymphs start heading toward shore. And of course, this is a great time to try throwing some streamers. Maybe try a Baby Gonga in black or olive, a Sparkle Minnow in any color, or a Sculpzilla. Whether you’re floating nymphs or stripping streamers, target the slower water within a couple feet of the bank. Once the water clears up a little, the dry fly fishing should get going. There were plenty of caddis and little yellow sally stoneflies around yesterday, and even a couple of early goldenstones flying about. And salmonflies are just around the corner. Stay tuned.

With the water still moving fast and high, be careful out there. I mean it!