Spring Fishing Report 2026

As of early mid-May, the story on the water has been fairly consistent—water levels are low, with most rivers we monitor at around 30-40% of normal flows. At the same time, colder than seasonal air temperatures have kept the water temperatures low enough—as our recent water temp readings have been in the upper 50s and low 60s, which is fine for trout.  Mountain streams are still cold enough, but are also low!   All that will likely change in mid May (except in the mountains) when daytime air temperatures will reach the 80s to 90s consistently.  When water temps are near or above 68 degrees, it is not safe to target trout as they can be hurt or even killed if caught.

We have been seeing hatches all over the place. Sulphers, March Browns, Hendrickson, Cahills, Adams, Caddis and Yellow Sallies have been working as dries on top. We have also seen hoppers and bigger flies like chubbies be effective.  Below the surface, stoneflies, olive hare’s ears, caddis pupa, perdigons, rainbow warriors and midges have been working well.  We always love streamers, but with low water, there aren’t as many deeper pools to run streamers as there can be. 

With lower water, we always say—the fish are just spookier so a) mind your approaches and try to approach upstream, b) limit false casting, c) work shadows and banks, and d) don’t overstay holes as fish will spook if you catch a fish or two in a spot.

As the water warms, the smallmouth bite will continue to improve.  We will move into the full post spawn period in late May and Early June. As water temperatures are still largely below 70, the bass bite currently is mostly sub surface—so think gallups, dungeons, thin mints, wooly buggers, game changers and clawdads.  The top water bite hasn’t gotten great yet, but we will keep you posted.

We have all the bugs, accessories and anything you need at the store, as well as our latest insights from the water (our guides are out every day) so come down and see us.