Salmon Flies Soon!

The main question we are getting in the store is when will the salmon flies show up on the Madison River. . That is a great question.  We are all eagerly awaiting the prehistoric arrival of the big bugs.  Our best bet is at least another week.  We have been seeing a bunch of rain which is good. It makes the grass green, fills the lake and cools the river. This will push the hatch back a little.  Our guess is that by the 22 we should have some bugs here in town.  That is our guess and we are sticking to it.  

Don’t be down good fishing to be had now

Our fly fishing guides are having some darn good fishing awaiting the salmon fly madness to come.  The Madison River is in pretty good shape river wide.  Current flows are 1220 CFS at Kirby ranch and 2230 CFS at Varney. This is plenty good for fishing.  We have almost a foot of clean water near the bank and the fish are on the feed.  Big nymph rigs and streamers are the name of the game. Remember the salmon fly nymphs are making the migration to the bank from the river bed. Many of these loose the footing and end up in the soup.  Keep your offerings dark and near the bank for best results.  We like stone fly stuff with rubber legs, san juan worms ( all the rain makes worms a good food for fish) and dark bodied streamers. Think olive and black.  Now is not the time for delicate tippets.  We have been fishing 2X and that might be a little weak.  Throw the rope now.  You will get more of your flies back from snags and it will help fighting fish and turning over big bugs.  

Dry Flies Anyone?

If you’re a dry fly guy there is still some hope. Our guides have been getting a few on dries on the Lower Madison River.  Caddis and PMD has been the name of the game.  Some really big fish are being caught on dries right now below The Bear Trap Canyon.  

Need Flies?

Our bins are overflowing with bugs for the season.  Stop by and grab the floating foamies you will need for salmon flies, goldens, caddis and PMD.  Have a full box before the rush.