January Stream Report for the Gunpowder River

A great leech for tightlining

As 2021 kicks off, it seems like we’ve gotten into a pattern of crisp winter weather.  Water flow on the Gunpowder is good, around 65 cfs.  However, the water is on the colder side, peaking at around 42-43 degrees on most days.  Due to the chilly temps rising fish are difficult to find, but these conditions provide a great opportunity to practice your tightline nymphing skills.

We’ve also had a number of anglers in the shop reporting good results from streamer fishing.  Personally, I’ve enjoyed dead drifting small streamers close to the bottom this winter.  Sometimes giving your fly an occasional jigging motion while it drifts through a run can go a very long way. 

A chilly day in the Boulder pools