A foggy July morning on the Gunpowder.

This past week the water has dropped down to our low summer flows at 30 cfs and is swinging from 50-58 degrees as the day goes on. Fishing has been particularly good in the morning before the water starts to heat up. Fishing a caddis in the riffles and faster water has been effective, while targeting the banks and structure with terrestrials has brought up fish for many. One of the most effective methods to fish this time of year is a dry-dropper. A midge or small mayfly imitation dropped off the back of a caddis or beetle allows you to effectively nymph but staying subtle enough to not spook the fish you’re targeting.

If you are really itching to nymph, tight-line nymphing is the way to go. A hefty indicator can often spook fish this time of year, so by getting rid of it you increase your likelihood of getting some fish to net. Targeting the faster runs and deeper pools will also increase your chances and will allow you to still get close to those fish in the low water.