The end of summer is evident in the cool overnight temps and changing hatches in the Methow right now. In the high-country larches are beginning to turn golden colors and ants are priming up for the fall hatch which will drive many fish to strap on the feed-bags.

In the low-country the still water is cooling which brings life back to the Methow’s low-land lakes. Right now the way to go in the low-land lakes is a combo of small nymph action as well as the opportunity to chuck some dry dragons and damsels which can produce bold grabs from fish also looking to put on more weight before the winter.

Sheela (Tony and Sheela live together in a run south of Twisp. Greg caught both in two casts.)

The Methow River right now is fishing relatively well considering more than half of its length has been detrimentally affected by flash flooding from its tributaries due to fire damage. Effects of fire and floods will be evident in the lower portion of the Methow for the foresee-able future. Undoubtedly the changes in the Methow will affect fishing and fishing seasons in the years to come, always bear in mind the Methow has many other fishing opportunities beyond the river.

Undoubtedly the Methow River and its surrounding tributaries will recover from the effects of the Carlton Complex fire, the length of time this recovery might take may be long in the scope of our human lives but it is as assured as spring is to winter. Take care of each-other and Fish On Ya’ll!