The Gunpowder River was dropped down to 30 cubic feet per second on the 15th with temperatures ranging between 48-52 degrees. This change should alter how you approach the river and the techniques used to successfully land some fish.
As always, nymphing is going to be the most consistent tactic during the colder months. However, the lower water will make things challenging depending on where you’re fishing in the river. Generally, the smaller patterns work better like variations of the zebra midge or small pheasant tails. these can be fishing with minimal weight since the currents are slower, and the pools are shallower. Targeting the deeper pools will yield the most success, but don’t overlook the smaller offshoots in a pool or riffle.
With the drop in water, a dry-dropper rig is a good option for many pools and runs on the river. Although we have not seen a ton of risers, there are fish that will be looking up, especially on warmer days. Flies like a parachute adams are perfect for this situation with a small nymph trailed off the hook-bend. This allows you to fish the shallower runs that a traditional nymph rigs will struggle on during the lower water levels.
Streamer fishing is still on the table but may not be as effective in the lower water. Going to smaller sizes and more natural colors may prove effective. Target the fastest water and cover as much as possible for the best results.
Please make sure to watch for reds while wading the river. The lower water will affect the spawning areas for the fish, so it is important to maintain the reds still in the water. The shop will be closed on Thanksgiving, Thursday. the 27th but will be open our normal hours on Friday and Saturday.