As fly anglers have noted on just about every other water in the neighborhood, bug and fish behavior has changed quite a bit over the past several weeks. Gone are the rainy and cool days of June; here are the hot, dusty days of summer.
River flows have remained stable since the big jump on the 17th; flows are running through the Box at roughly 1400 cfs, up from the 950 range on the 16th.
The Box is still fishing pretty well, and as usual is a much more productive fishery when approached subsurface. There are lots of folks in the neighborhood reminding fisher folk to downsize their offerings as the summer progresses – our best HF source says she’s now down to using size 16 to 18 nymphs for the most part.
This time of year the Drakes are for the most part finished. Harriman and Last Chance are fishing in the morning to PMDs and Flavs in the evening, along with the ever increasingly important ants and beetles. There are a fair number of Caddis as well. Not many hoppers yet.
Riverside to Warm River is in fine shape this time of year, and the legend of Cardiac Canyon keeps the crowds away for those willing to expend some energy to hike and enjoy the outstanding views. Take plenty of drinkable water, good sun protection, and make sure your fly box contains Goldens, Caddis, Yellow Sallies, and a good assortment of nymphs.
Warm River to Ashton isn’t in bad shape, but below Ashton rising water temps and irrigation dewatering are taking their toll. Terrestrials and Caddis are in play down here, but it’s not easy sledding.
Tags: River - Henry's Fork
