With water temps hovering around 41 F and flow in the 150’s , we saw the first of the tiny black stoneflies last weekend and by the end of January they should be more numerous. Red butts, fished in riffles and small Black or gray caddis imitations are worth trying. Charlie Gelso’s stones with the duck quill wings are the prettiest dry flies to fish this time of year.
Had a bunch of folks in the 1ST that started the year right! A big breakfast followed by some fishing along the Gunpowder. Thanks to all that showed, you really made my holiday fun! The weather looks pretty nice for the weekend and while we don’t forecast the weather here, we’re thinking that the fishing will pick up as we get into some warmer weather in the next two days. More reports of fish caught today on cream midges, Griffith’s Gnats and Olives bode well for the weekend. Water temp is still between 42 and 44 F so make sure you’ve got some good socks …
With the water temp in the mid 40’s and flow around 200 Cfs, we’ve had mixed reports from folks spending their last vacation days of 03 fishing the Gunpowder. After a few warm days, cream midges sized #20-22 and tiny Olives accounted for a few fish, streamers have been working a little better on a dead drift and swing then when stripped across pools. If you’d like to toss a few nymphs, start with a nice, buggy, Hare’s Ear in a #14.Zug bugs and Carey specials are also important patterns to have in your box.
I’m happy to announce that the shop will be open New Years Day. Hours are 10 AM till 3 PM. Rates for 04′ Licenses are as follows. All rates quoted are for the 2004 Season.Fees reflect a Freshwater license and a Trout Stamp. Residents of: MD=$15.50 PA=$40 VA=$35 DC=$15 DE=$20 NJ=$39 Note: Need an 04′ license before you venture out? You’ll need to bring your drivers license and either a personal check or cash for payment.
Water level has been dropping this week, and with the Sun out most are fishing green weenies and red butts downstream in the riffles between Masemore and Bunkerhill. Not many fish have been caught on dries lately, but large zonker style streamer like the Barr’s Bouface sized #4 & 6 are tricking a few fish. Water temp is still around 48 and the flow has dropped to the low 200’s.
With weather like this we hope that you hit the stream today.We had quite a few folks out early picking up fish on Hare’s Ears and Pheasant Tails below Masemore Rd. Water temp is a little under 50 F and is nice and clear. York Rd through Big Falls would be a nice stretch to cover with a streamer in the next few days.Be sure to check the flow before you go by clicking on the link to the USGS stream gauge on the front page of the site. Note: Need flies for tomorrow? The shop will be open Wednesday from 10 till 3 PM.
