This week winter finally started to release the Methow from its cold dark grip. Evidence of which could be not only felt but seen and heard as well by the racket of the Stellar’s Jay and many other birds sent aloft by warming air and longer days. As with many other animals the activity level of fish in the system has been on the up-tick.
Rick with a nice wild buck
As with most winters fish right now are keying in on smaller food items such as the midges, chironomids and small stones. With warmer temps (30’s-40) and a bit of sun on the water winter time hatches of the following bugs are always near to come. One would think these small insects would not be worth the time of such a large fish as steelhead, on the contrary however steelhead find it easy to lie in the drift and consume enough of these insects to sate there limited wintertime caloric needs.
Keepers!
With water temps still in the mid to upper 30’s you can expect to find fish mostly in the lower two thirds of suitable runs, you will not find fish in any water with waves or fast flow right now so do not waste time and energy until you find water at least 5ft deep with nice seams, structure and foam-line. When you find suitable water take your time in fishing it and where you pick up one fish, look to find more there. Sometimes resting the water, taking a break and trying again about 20 minutes later you can find repeated success.
Chroni doing it again
As water warms fish will be had on the swing with small traditional patterns such as the Freight-Trane and the Skunk, as for now though nymphing is most successful as it caters to the lack of energy to chase the swung bug as well the amount of midge and chrironomid in the drift. Look to find fish spread pretty well between Carlton and the mouth, just take time to find slower walking speed runs as described above.
Jerry with a slab buck
If you have any questions or would like to inquire about openings through March just drop us a line on the Guiding page or call anytime (509) 429-7298. Thanks for following the report, fish safe, have fun best of luck! Leaf
One of my favorite spots
