Springish….

One of my favorite things as a mountain dweller, is watching snow melt!                              It’s slightly more action filled than watching paint dry, but more satisfying……because we know our winter is coming to a close. The warmth we have been getting during the day is actually 49 deg, but feels like 60 deg. I have been doing a reptile imitation, just sitting in the sun, trying to convince my mind and body that we have gotten through another winter………

What I watch for are the first arrivals of Spring; Alder Gnat catchers, starlings, Geese, and in the bug department…Skwallas! These Stone Flies are a big bite for fish, after a Winter of little bites. We spotted one last week near Hirschdale, so that’s where Spring is so far. The timing is crucial for birds too. They will need to feed their offspring, and Skwallas make a nice meal for them, as well as the fish.  It happens a little differently every year, but will happen….and the cycle continues. It’s nice to be here too, to see another year begin again.

Not to leave you in suspense…..but the fishing has been great, and getting better. The higher flows are not an impediment to fishing. We shift styles…not as many rising fish to eat dries, but they can be caught that way, if you are patient.                                                 As far as other styles……bobbers work, and so does Czech or “Merican” high stick nymphing. Streamers are becoming more attractive to fish…..The water temp is 40+ right now, so fish are moving more. There are those who will wait for the warmth of Summer to go fishing. Personally, I enjoy fishing too much to take 5 months off……..