The fishing conditions on the Gunpowder are good for dry fly fishing. The fishing is certainly challenging, but between the morning Trico hatch and terrestrial fishing, trout are rising to a variety of patterns in weekday lower flows. On certain weekends releases may not occur if there is no need to send water to Loch Raven. The most important factor in low water conditions is not spooking the wary, wild Gunpowder trout, which is certainly easer said than done. Longer casts, 12-15 foot leaders, and staying out of the water where possible, will greatly improve the odds of catching trout. The shallow water and the heat makes for a warm day in waders, so consider wet wading. A pair of 2 mm neoprene Simms Guard socks in stock will keep your feet from going numb in the mid fifty degree water in the Upper river.  These “spring creek” conditions present numerous sight fishing opportunities and a well placed first cast is all that is needed. 

The morning Tricos are luring a number of anglers to the river, although many head home just after Noon when the hatch ends.  Most access points are quiet and even boat traffic is limited or non existent upstream of York Rd, due to the shallow water. On two days this week I fished the Trico hatch, and stayed from 1-4 pm fishing a foam “Gunpowder” beetle on a 14 foot 6x leader. On both days the number of fish caught on the beetle exceeded fish caught on Tricos, and added up to a lot of trout with the combined morning catch. Terrestrials are always fun to fish, but spotting trout, making the cast and watching the take in crystal clear water adds a whole new element. For the late risers, haters of 7x, and tiny flies, consider fishing beetles, the shop has a wide variety of patterns. This video post features wild browns with big appetites for foam and rubber legged beetle patterns.