After a large spike in flows earlier this week, things have settled down here on the Gallatin. There is still a fair amount of water in the river right now, compared to years past. Clarity is excellent, and conditions are great for dry fly fishing.
Spruce Moths are still the buzzword. Early, before 11 or so, and after six is the best time to fish this hatch. It is easy to see the bugs on the water; just look for the large, light colored, lazy flying insects. Hit a local fly shop to stock up on moth patterns.
Other than that, caddis and mayflies are making up the majority of the menu. Small black caddis are coming off in pretty good numbers are night. Bring some size 16, 18 and 20 black elk hair caddis and you should be all right. Mark and I were up near the park last night and saw some tiny yellow midges as well. Why you would fish something that small this time of year is beyond me. Hoppers and beetles are working well in the lower river, below the canyon. When nothing is working on top, tie on either a soft hackle or caddis pupae nymph.
Tags: River - Gallatin
