[ARCHIVE] Stillwater River Report 07/29/19

Flows have dropped significantly. The upper river is pretty bony and only experienced oarsman should tackle floating above Absarokee. Nymphing is usually more productive in the morning, and once the day and water warms up a bit, dry fly fishing has been fairly consistent in the afternoons. Look for golden stones, caddis and PMDs to be coming off. Stimulators, Jack Cabes, PMXs and Chubbies are all getting the job done for surface action. A dropper nymph like a bead head flashback pheasant tail, hare’s ear, red copper john, prince nymph or batman have been taking fish. Smaller trailer dries like a PMD, Caddis or purple haze are working well in the afternoon also. Straight nymphing of runs and inside corners with a big rubber leg pattern like a girdle bug, bitch creek or Pat’s Rubberleg is always a good option. For streamers never leave home without the Grinch in the box. Try the Electric Goldfish or a basic black wooly bugger too.