A chilly and windy day at access #5. Wind blew relentlessly all morning and early afternoon. I did manage to catch 3 fish on small nymphs (the usual 18 to 20 size nymphs) and one fish swinging a wet fly, one of my favorite methods to fish for trout. It was a smallish fish, quickly in and back in the water, but more satisfying to catch than the three larger ones caught with nymphs.
If you're familiar with the new shape of the river at the head of the island, you'll know that there are a couple of pools on the left (north) fork that are worth fishing before you head out to the larger stream that bends to the right. Both pools are now adorned with large tree trunks that have fallen across the water during the past 4-5 days. Another tree has fallen on the path to access #4 as you head to the rapids from downstream, forcing a walk through thick brush. The wind has been busy these few days.
Glad you had some luck Aldo. I just returned from the creek today and had a productive day at #4 where I saw you a couple weeks ago. I hooked about 6-7 and got 3 to the net. The last was a fat 16" that I thought was 22" until it got close. Those fish sure are lively. I've been using the same sizes as you: 18 to 20.
Last Friday I was fishing one of those pools you mentioned where the trees have fallen in. I heard a loud "crack!" Startled the crap out of me. Now I know the tree was beginning to break apart to fall in. Guess I should be thankful it didn't fall on me:) Have a great Memorial everyone!
Thanks for the update. Would you say there are more fishable spots lower down river with the higher flows? I've been going to pc for the past few years and keep finding myself staying up near the bridge and guide hole area(crazy how different that spot is this year). But with these higher flows my usual spots aren't as accessible so i've been going less often.. I should really just go out and explore but for how long it takes me to get there, I want to go to the spots i know catch fish..
There are more fishable spots on the lower creek with the high flows but I find fish to be very selective. In the past I could put on a Copper John, PTN, zebra or WD 40 to catch fish; now the same patterns need to be just the right size, shape and color. Sounds like you found the right combination Todd.
I've yet to catch a good sized fish (14" and larger) this year, but I'm happy that I'm hooking fish. It seems spawners have survived this winter's high flows because I have caught several small ones with parr marks. A good sign for the fishery.
I haven't ventured upstream towards the bridge yet this year. I think I will on my next trip to see just how the river has changed.
