The Blackfoot has hit its summer stride. Hoppers are here, the lower river is full of drunken tubers, and there are caddis and mayflies in abundant quantities. Flows have been slowly dropping down, as of this morning they were just over 1,000 cfs.
The lower flows mean a couple of good things. The fish are now spreading out all over the river, not just sitting clustered by the banks. Wading is also easier, something the young bucks don’t complain about a whole lot, but it makes a difference to old knees.
Terrestrials and attractors fished through any fishy looking run are working well. I have caught some big fish in the past few days on a size 8 Dave’s Hopper. The Blackfoot is an interesting river; some days this time of year it fishes great, and other days you couldn’t catch a fish to save your life. Just be persistent and willing to experiment with different patterns.
Seems like everyday at around 2 or 3 in the afternoon is when the dry fly action really starts to pick up. Caddis, mayflies, golden stones and yellow sallies are all coming out. Take your pick and have at it.
Stay away from the lower river, the tuber hatch is out in force.
Tags: River - Blackfoot
