Fake Runoff, Real Runoff…. The lines are usually quite blurred on this subject in Spring on the Madison River. Due to the changing weather, we have had this week, one day we were led to believe that this off-color water would only get worse. But then we woke up to cooler temps the next day and were surprised to see crystal clear waters. However, the way the water looked this week did not stop the fish from eating. And you may have been lucky enough to have the right set up in the right place that trout were eating at the end of your line!
This week was a special pleasure. Jointly with Madison Gallatin Trout Unlimited, Beartooth Flyfishing, and Michael Gerhart we hosted a fantastic group of Veterans for a 3-day fishing adventure on our famous home waters. Fun, laughter, healing, and lots of fish were had by all. The Vets Really enjoyed some great eating and accommodations at Michael’s. We are honored to be apart of a great organization and selfless individuals that make this possible for our most valued members of our nation.
Fishing this week was dominated by Stoneflies, Streamers and of course the Worm. Dead drifted Streamers with a smaller Nymphs trailing were quite productive and double Stoneflies were a favorite for many. With the changing water clarity, buggier, bigger, brighter Nymphs have been the ticket and most likely will continue to be as we are having a strung-out runoff this year.
Stream flows this week started at 1,070cfs @ Kirby and 1,420cfs @ Cameron and steadily rising to 1,420cfs @ Kirby and 2,070cfs @ Cameron. We will be having cooler temperatures next week which will slow down runoff and change water clarity. This time of the year it is always good to call the flyshop and check the conditions from day to day. Here at Beartooth Flyfishing we are open 7 days a week 8 AM to 5 PM. Give us a call or stop by and enjoy the free coffee and even better free advice!! (406-682-7525)
Nymphs: Delektable FB Sparkle Kaboom Stone #6-#8; Jig Duracell Original/Red Bead #16; JH CDC Flashback PT #16; JH BH Zebra Midge Red #18; Delektable Mr. Rubberlegs Goldenstone #8-#10; Delektable Mega Prince STD #6-#8; Delektable Prince Brandon #8-#12; Lightning Bug Gold #14-#16; Delektable Hammerhead Jig Hook GTBH Hare’s Ear, PT or Prince #14-#16; Delektable JH Tungsten Lil’ Spanker PT #14-#16; Delektable Stonefly Candy UV Black BH #6-#8; Pat’s Rubberlegs Black, Olive/Brown or Brown/Black #6-#8; Psycho Prince GB Purple #12-#14; Tungsten Jiggy Blow Torch #14-#16; Wire Worm Pink, Red/Purple or Orange/Red #8-#4.
Streamers: Zonker Dark Olive or Natural #6; Sheila Sculpin #4; Sculpzilla Olive/White #8; Jr’s Conehead Streamer Olive, or Natural #6; McCune’s Sculpin Olive #8; Mini-Loop Olive #6; Fish Whacker Mini Olive #6; Delektable Screamer Single Olive/White or Black/Olive in Gold #6; Coffey’s CH Sparkle Minnow Sculpin or Smoke #6.
