Jackson Hole Fly Fishing Report-- October 6, 2014

This weeks Jackson Hole Fly Fishing Report is highlighted by the annual flow cuts on the Snake River, typically starting on or near October 1st. The last week of September we had again some serious rain for the so called semi-arid region. Fall foliage came on strong and within a week the leaves were gone, hammered by wind and rain. As flows drop on the Snake the fishing can become spotty until flows stablize and this year was no different. The trips I ventured out on during the water drops were good but we had to constantly search for new holding positions. Areas that held fish a week or two ago were often void of any life, in fact nearly all the flat runs that have no significant hole were void of trout. Literally in a few days span we went from a late summer pattern, where the trout are spread out along banks to finding fish in winter lies and deep corners.

Another highlight worth mention was the sharp change in water temperature. Once the heavy rains of September moved on the overnight lows fell into the 20's and this shocked the system and water temps went from upper 50's to upper 40's, so now our hot dry fly fishing is slow to happen and is best after 1pm. Hatches have thinned out but still seeing a mixture of small mayflies and midges. We should see some nice fall baetis(BWO) on cloudy days and midge activity will pick up closer to November. Smaller terrestrial patterns are still working well during the afternoon, my best fly lately has been a #16 black PMX.

A relic of summer clings to a gravel bar in October.

September rains brought exciting fishing and dramatic views.

Ventured out of the valley during the heavy rains.

Stunning brown from Western Wyoming.

This rainbow hammered a small foam power ant.

Flows are stablizing and big trout are repositioning, love October!

Jackson Hole!