After a few days of summer like weather this past week, the Gunpowder is starting to act a little more like spring.  Water levels are great for fishing, around 88 Cfs at Falls rd, while water temperate has finally broken the 40 degree mark and is peaking around 42-46degrees on a daily basis.Along with the warm temperatures and sun, we are seeing some very small black stoneflies and a number of fish rising to them. Although fishing with nymphs is still the primary way to catch fish, it’s wise to have a few small dries handy like an elk hair caddis in the #16-18 range for when you spot a splashy rise to a stonefly.
If you want a relaxing way to blend the two techniques, swinging small dark wet flies has been effective. When swinging, focus on getting your flies in front of and around rocks and log jams where the emerging stoneflies will congregate to climb out of the water.