The upper river holds, based on State fisheries biologist Charlie Gougeons’ report after the 2006 Fall shocking survey, 4,646 fish per mile-That’s four thousand, six hundred and forty six fish per mile folks. Who’s going flyfishing this weekend? If you don’t, others will. Here’s a little insight as to who might headed up this weekend based on local drive times from folks we’re proud to call regulars.
The South Jersey and N. Virginia anglers will drive just over 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Philly-style anglers will drive 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Delaware based anglers will drive 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Annapolis and DC Metro anglers will drive 1 hour and 20 minutes.
York and Baltimore anglers will drive 35 minutes.
Are you a Backwater Angler?
Remember that the Big Gunpowder Falls River river is over 18 miles in length from Prettyboy Dam to Loch Raven. I’m sure that you’ll be able to find some open water this weekend, Stop in the shop if you need directions, flies or just want to share a tall tale.
The river is flowing at a great level, the most recent instantaneous value provided by the USGS is 154 CFs means that the fish are ready to attack dries and streamers. We had several anglers in yesterday that reported great luck with Goddard caddis in the #12-16 range. Small Streamers have also been the ticket. Try fishing olive marabou muddlers with a little deep soft weight pushed into the nose to get them down. Bwo’s in the #18-20 range will trick fish along back eddies and glassy pools. Die-hard terrestrial nuts can still score with a #14-16 fur ant. And behold, nymphers, the little black fly larvae are about, so be sure to pick up a few brassies in the #18-22 range before you head out.
Long leaders are still the rule, we’re typically starting with a 9 to 12 footer and adding a few feet of 6 or 7x.
Note:Hand tied leaders are typically easier to turn over than knotless tapered leaders.
See and feel the difference hand tied leaders can make in your fishing the next time you’re in the shop.