I have not been on the creek since Dec/Jan. With flows at 400, is it worth the effort? It's always been <100 when I've been there and I'm concerned about access and taking a dunk with one mistep. Thanks, Eric
Access is a little tougher at 400 cfs since a lot of areas previously accessible during the winter months won't be a wadable. However, I think its still worth the effort to fish. I have actually had better luck fishing the higher flows...even over 500cfs. You should be okay if you use a wading staff, have studded boots, and move slowly.
I agree with SCM. The fishing can be good with flows around 400 CFS. You do have to be more careful wading, though. The fish can be tougher to find, but you can do very well if you do find them. One other thing. Stream flows are on the increase now, transitioning from Winter (<100 CFS) to Summer flows (600+ CFS) so you won't see any really low flows until October or so. So, if you want fishable conditions, the longer the wait before you go, the tougher the conditions will be.
The patterns that i used when the flow was in the 300s, should i stay the same or go with bigger different patterns. Any pattern suggestions would be helpful.
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Fishing isn't a matter of life and death....
It's much more important.
The patterns that i used when the flow was in the 300s, should i stay the same or go with bigger different patterns. Any pattern suggestions would be helpful.
Thats a decision that you should make once your on the water.
I usually fish #16 and #18 sized flies regardless of flow conditions. The key is to get the fly down deep and quickly; experiment with different amounts of shot on your tippet. I usually test the water with the following two-fly combos: fox's poopah/zebra midge and PT/disco midge. I also regularly mix in Z-wing caddis, micro mayfly, and red serendipity. I will also swing all colors of wooley buggers and lately some home tied soft-hackles in sulphur orange and olive. Keep an eye on the insect life for more hints on what to tie on. Good luck.
