The Crooked River is still seeing a very good BWO hatch #18-20. Knock Down Duns, Film Critics, Sparkle Duns and that BDE that I’ve talked about on a few reports. My friend Bruce who is the Montana Fly rep introduced us to that BDE several years ago and the Crooked fish devour it. it floats a long time with an application of Shimizaki Dry Shake too.
I expect the river levels to rise next week. Maybe after April 1… So, it could go from 47 cfs to 200, maybe 240 cfs one day. If you are fishing, that is going to be something to watch for. If you are on the other side of the river and you start noticing a lot of junk floating by (more than the usual CR junk), cross back before it gets high. 240-260 is normal summer flow. But it will get dirty for a day or two and might slow the fishing a little. The BWO’s will still hatch and often the high flow will also create a really good nymphing opportunity. Think about larger Prince Nymphs and Squirmy’s right after the water comes up. And also we’ve smacked them hard on leeches dead drifted and on the swing during high or raising water times on the Crooked.

For the most part, the nymphing is with perdigons, micro may’s, skinny nelson’s, 2 bit’s, frenchie’s, scuds and tiny midges.

There is still a really strong midge hatch in the afternoon and the fish rise well to emergers and adult midges as the sun get’s lower.

Don’t forget about our spring guide trip special for $350 for 1 to 3 anglers until 4/21.