[ARCHIVE] Stillwater River Report 09/24/18

Flows continue to be below 500 cfs, making things doable for floating the lower river, but still pretty skinny in spots. There’s no need to get out too terribly early this time of year, as with cooler days and mornings, water temperatures are chilly. Dry fly fishing has continued to be good once the day warms up by mid-day/early afternoon. Smaller size hopper patterns, Jack Cabe, Chubbys and PMXs are good choices. Royal, Yellow, Orange, Purple and Olive are good body colors. Also try the Micro Chubbys in purple, tan and gold. They’re also hitting smaller dries like the Purple Haze with a good presentation, even with no actively rising fish. So, try trailing a smaller Purple Haze or Parachute Adams off of a spotter fly. Fish have been on a dropper nymph, like a prince nymph, hare’s ear, batman, red copper john or pheasant tail. If fish are hitting the big dry, particularly tight to the banks,  leave it off as it allows for better accuracy. Straight nymphing or streamer fishing is probably the way to go early before things warm up. For streamers, try the Grinch or Electric Goldfish.