7-26-15
Despite the very strange and wet weather around here, we have remained extremely busy. Folks have been finding ways to catch fish and that's pretty cool!
Andy is on his way home today with the July Alaska group and should have reports and pics up this week. Brian is on his way with his group out to visit Kelly Galloup at the Slide Inn and will be reporting as he goes. We never rest!
Most exciting was the official announcement made this week about our new partnership with Flip Pallot! Brian and Flip have teamed up to bring you www.flippallot.com. We are thrilled that Flip has trusted in us to run his online store. You can read the press release from Friday on our Blog.
Now to the Mad-
The river has slowly been receding this week and is looking really great....especially for mid to late July. Bad new is that the river has been tough to fish for a month or so, good news is that we are in pretty good shape for a good late Summer/Fall.
Terrestrials are the hot ticket right now, especially during the daytime. Ants and beetles in particular. Also want to be armed with Caddisflies...larva, pupa and adults, especially if you will be fishing into the evening. It won't be long now and we should start seeing the White Miller caddis in the evenings and possibly some White Mayflies (Ephrons) as well but none reported yet.
We did get a report of some Trico spotted in the uppper parts of the river yesterday. One angler witnessed a pretty good hatch and had fishing rising to them. Some others have reported seeing them in spider webs along the banks. They typicall run about a size 20-22 and usually hatch very early in the morning. Your best bet is to be there at sunrise and watch and wait.
The lower river has been producing some nice fish on streamers with the higher flows. That may change a bit as the water drops and clears but never a bad bet to throw a streamer on the Mad...as you probably know!
Please let us know if you see bugs and we'll try to check-in as we can during the week. If we don't, feel free to give us a call.
7-15-15
Believe it or not, the Mad was in pretty good shape up until night before last. The flow was strong but fishable. That has changed here the past two days.....
Pretty well blown out and probably will be for a few days. It does look like we are getting a break in the storms and precip so she might be in prime shape for the weekend.
We'll try to let you know as we do but as always, if we don't, feel free to call the shop. We are always glad to hear from you and share what we know.
7-4-15
The Mad has dropped steadily over the past few days and is looking pretty good. The levels are coming back to fishable and the clarity is improving. The lower river is still pretty aggressive and a bit of stain but if you are above Urbana you should be fine the next few days. Just be aware that this is a big weekend for canoe traffic so fishing during the day could be challenging. Best fishing is still gonna be in the evenings anyways.
We did have a few folks in the upper river the past few days and they did see some pretty good Sulpher activity....the #18 Dorothea variety. These are strictly going to be in the upper river and their days are most likely numbered. We don't usually get them too far into July. From here on out you want to be armed with Caddis and Terrestrials until we start seeing Tricos in the mornings. Fish ants and beetles during the day, caddis in the late afternoons and evenings. If you don't see rising fish, caddis larva and pupa are for sure the hot ticket.
The next few days the streamer fishing could be good to excellent, especially in the lower part of the river.
Hope everyone has a great 4th of July weekend. Please remember that we are Closed today for the holiday and tomorrow as always. We'll be back at it Monday morning and will try to get a report up from the weekend.
6-29-15
No big shocker here....the Mad is on it's way back up.....again. We have been up and down the past few days and each time we are about to proclaim "Good Streamer Water"...she jumps back up. With rain predicted each day this week, it's hard to say what will happen but we'll try to let you know and if we don't...give a call to the shop.
6-23-15
The Mad is coming down nicely and fishing well! A bit of a stain in the lower river but just makes for good Summer streamer conditions.
We expect that there will still be some Sulpher activity in the upper parts of the river. These will mostly be the Dorothea...the #18 variety. Probably some sporadic Light Cahills and Isonychia as well. Most surface activity throughout the river though will be Caddis and Terrestrials. Time to stock up on beetles and ants!
Of course, if you don't see any surface activity, stick with nymphs. Caddis larva and pupa, cranefly larva, San Juan worms and the like will produce all summer.
We'll try to let you know as we get reports this week but as always, don't hesitate to call the shop if you need more and up-to-date info!
6-21-15
The Mad blew out majorly yesterday afternoon. Of course it did...it rained steadily all damn day!
The good news is that it is dropping fast and folks might be found throwing streamers in the upper river tomorrow and throughout on Tuesday. If you go, just be safe out there.
We'll try to let you know as things stablilize. We do have guides out on Tuesday and Wednesday and should get reports/pics up.
Happy Fathers Day AND Summer Solstice!
6-19-15
The Mad is coming down and is fishing in the upper parts of the river. It is pretty stained so probably nymph and streamers for a day or so. The lower river is pretty well blown but depending on the rain, it may fish tomorrow and will be great streamer conditions.
It has spiked just a pinch with the most recent rain cells but as of right now it doesn't appear that it will blow again....but watch the rain.
Other than that...read below for more.....
6-18-15
Yep...you guessed it....the Mad is pretty blown out. Spiked straight up starting yesterday morning. The good news is that it is dropping pretty quickly. We'll try to update again tomorrow but it might be fishable in the upper reaches tomorrow afternoon.
Seems that we have probably seen the last of the Drakes. A few folks out early this week did see them in the upper river but not many. We really only saw two or three nights there of good spinner falls and it was over. A few good fish reported though but mostly after dark. Those brave enough to fish late MAY see some decent Hex activity the next week or so but as you may know, just like the Drakes, these guys are tricky.
Once the water clears we should still have some Sulphers, especially the #18 variety in the upper parts of the river. There will also be good to great caddis activity from here on out...have dries, pupa and larva with you at all times. Now is the time to be thinking hard about Ants and Beetles as well, they will be the hot ticket, especially fishing during the day, until we start seeing Tricos which won't be until mid July.
The streamer bite has been off for most, and we can attest, but with this bump in flows it might be worth trying this weekend. Especially in the lower parts of the river. A streamer angler would be wishing for more water right now!
We'll do our best to update here tomorrow but if we don't.....simply call the shop and we'll let you know what we do.
6-10-15
If you follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Google + you already heard the news! The Brown Drakes are on!
Here is what we know-
They came off pretty heavy yesterday from around 10-Noon. Yes...kinda weird but that's what happened and the fish were all over them. They are usually a late afternoon/early evening hatch. Probably will be the next few days. We do know that they were spotted as high up as Lippincott and as far down as Dallas Rd. The trees along the river were full of them....as well as sporadic Green Drakes.
Many we heard from including several of our guides were on the water until dark last night and later and the spinners DID NOT fall. If anyone saw differently, forgive us and please let us know what you saw. By that account, we are early in the hatch and the next few nights at dark could be Epic. Look up to the sky and have a headlamp!
Otherwise, same report as below.....just sprinkle in some Drakes. It does seem like the March Browns have pretty much run their course though and the Sulpers and Cahills will slowly decline in the lower river. The upper river will be chock full of Sulphers especially for a few more weeks most likely. Although the Drake spinners didn't show, we still caught quite a few fish on Sulpher and Caddis patterns last night.
Let us know what you see!!!
6-8-15
A Mad has been fishing really well for most the past few weeks. Today's rain that we are getting now will only help things along here as well.
Pretty much the same report as previous....but dry fly fishing has even picked-up a bit....quite a bit for some. We have been seeing a mix of BWO's, both Sulphers, March Browns, Light Cahills, midges and #14 and #16 Caddis as well. Most reports have the fish focusing their attention on the Sulphers. If they refuse the adult, throw a spinner. If they refuse that, try an ant!!!! Still no confirmed reports of Brown Drakes! The next few warm, humid and still evenings should explode with these giant bugs....be ready. The hatch usually lasts about 5 days to a week or so and it truly a sight to behold when you catch it right. Please let us know if you see any. Brian will be on the river until dark tomorrow and Josh on Wednesday so we'll try to let you know what they find.
Otherwise, we have been catching fish on nymphs and streamers like always. The big nymphs continue to do well- Clouser's Swimming Nymph, Big Nasties, Cranefly Larva etc. We have also been doing well on caddis pupa and soft hackle patterns. Hanging one below a dry is a good searching rig this time of year. Have also been doing well on attractor type stuff like San Juans. The new Squirmy San Juan's have been racking up some numbers as of late.
Stay tuned......Drakes to come!!
5-22-15
Looks like another great weekend ahead! The Mad has been fishing good to excellent the past few weeks and the dry fly fishing has been the big news. We did see a bit of a slow-up with the cold front mid week but things should pick right back up and this weekend should be great. Best fishing by far in the evenings for the spinner falls which have been happening anytime between 7 and 9 p.m.
A total mixed bag of bugs we have been seeing this week and it seems that there is no rhyme or reason to which bug the fish are focused on. We have seen March Browns, Light Cahills, BWO's #16 and #18 Sulphers, Tan Caddis, Green Caddis and midges. The mid to late afternoons have seen the best hatching activity and again it just seems that whatever bug is most prevalent is the one to throw. At dark though, with all of these mayflies hatching, having Rusty Spinner patterns in sizes 12-16 is the way to go and look for subtle rises.
During the day, if no dry fly activity, we have been doing well on standard mayfly nymphs as well as a caddis larva and pupa rig. The new Nitro Caddis larva has been a hot ticket. Be sure to have some Brown Drake nymphs as well..they are working great and will continue for a few weeks until the hatch winds down.
Streamer fishing has been decent but mostly in the lower river.
We'll be on the lookout for Brown Drakes here soon. Hoping for an epic hatch this year!
Have a great weekend and also keep in mind that this is one of the biggest canoe rental weekends of the year so you'll need to share the river!
5-8-15
Once again, the Mad is in good shape for the weekend! The good news is that quite a few folks reporting good to excellent dry fly fishing this week. Did seem to even pick-up pretty well last weekend and has stayed strong this week. We did have reports of, and see for ourselves some good Hendrickson spinner falls last weekend which happened right around 7:00- 7:15 p.m. and we did have fish feeding on them. Have been selling a bunch of Spinners online to folks who are fishing the Mad so seems that we have finally gotten them in good numbers. Bad news it that we have probably seen the bulk of the Hendricksons and they have already started to wind down as this week has progressed.
What we have seen this week has really been a mixed bag and will probably remain so for the next month or so. Sporadic Henddrickson duns and spinners still around, some of the #16 Sulphers spotted in the middle parts of the river, some March Browns, midges, quite a few caddis both tan and olive varieties and even some of the "red butt" ants that we get this time of year. If you do see rising fish, really need to determine what they are feeding on in order to get them to eat a dry. Best activity has already moved to pretty much an evening thing although you never know for sure.
Otherwise, as we always say, if you don't see risers, go below. A variety of nymphs can work this time of year.....March Brown type clingers, Brown Drakes, #14-16 Pheasant Tails and Hare's Ears and of course caddis larva and pupa. Nothing on those then be sure to have a Cranefly Larva and a San Juan worm...these two flies can save the day on the Mad.
Streamer fishing has remained good too with the decent flows we have been experiencing. Yellow and white have been producing but always have black and olive with you as well if those two aren't on that day.
5-1-15
The Mad is in great shape and looking good for the weekend. Combine that with the predicted weather and fishing should be good to excellent.
Have had a few guide trips this week and of course anglers checking-in and hardly anybody has seen much at all for dry fly activity. There have been sporadic Hendricksons in the middle to upper river but not really enough to get the fish going regularly. They have also been hatching in the late afternoon and haven't moved up earlier in the day which signifies that they are still sluggish. A few spinners around this week and the past few days but again...not huge numbers. Hard to say what we are looking at here. By the books...the hatch should be winding down....but we haven't really seen a peak. It is possible that we may not and they may have just sputter away like this for a few more weeks. Regardless, we will begin looking for Sulphers here in the next week or so...of course in the evenings. May start to see a few March Browns as well if the predicted temps come true.
There have been surprisingly good numbers of Blue Quills and Blue Winged Oives in the upper parts of the river. At this time of year...another sign of the late season. A few anglers have been doing very well on #16-18 BWO/Blue Dun patterns and also good reports of spinner falls in the early evening. Again, this his been seen mostly in the upper river say above Lippincott and towards West Liberty.
Quite a few caddis flitting around as well and be sure to have some #14-16 tan and olive as it always is from here on out. Butch Caddis, Elk Hairs and such with a #14-16 Green Soft Hackle or Pupa pattern trailed behind can be a deadly rig.
For now, your best bet is still streamers and nymphs. Generic nymphs, pheasant tails #14-16, Hendrickson nymphs have all been working. Also been hooking some fish on Cranefly Larva but that's always the case with the Mad!
Let us know how you are doing out there and we'll try to keep you informed as well.
4-24-15
The Mad has slowly crept back down to good fishable levels this week. Should be a good weekend although still a touch cold for the season we were hoping for. Hopefully it will begin to warm a bit and we get some bugs going again.
Did have some folks out in the upper river on Wednesday and then several throughout the system yesterday. Most reporting minimal bugs and no fish feeding on them. Hard to say what will become of the Hendricksons at this point.....although if we do get a warm-up....it could be killer next week. Did have some small BWO types in the upper river yesterday but again, not much feeding activity on the surface.
Right now your best bet is of course nymphs and streamers. Have some Hendrickson style nymphs, some cranefly larva and possibly some soft hackles and you should catch fish. Brian did pretty well the other day fishing attractor type stuff like Green Weenies and San Juan worms. Pick your poison on streamers and make them swim like their life depends on it and you could do well. We can tell you though that yellow and white flies have been drawing ferocious strikes. Don't be afraid to try black or olive though if those two don't produce. The fish have been a little particular on color and have been turning on-and-off throughout the day.
Best fishing will for sure be in the afternoons....noon until dark and even 3 until dark might be better. Bright sun will help the bugs, overcast better for nymphs and streamers.
Regardless, go fish and let us know how you do!!!
4-20-15
As you can imagine, the Mad shot straight up overnight and looks like we will be out of business for a few days here at least. We'll let you know as things change and we get back out on the water.
Friday and Saturday saw good hatches of Hendricksons. They got going late though, like 3-4 p.m. and most reported marginal feeding on the adults. Did have one angler get into a decent spinner fall on Saturday night just above Rte. 36 but said again, not many fish feeding on them. With the bump in flows and the cooler temps this week, it's hard to say what will happen with the hatch. Hopefully we can get some warmth and sunshine and being to look for Hennys again in the afternoons. We'll let you know as we do.
4-17-15
The Mad is in absolute prime shape for the weekend. If things go as planned, this could be one of the better weekends of the year! The Hendrickson hatch should kick-in full force and we would hate for you to miss it! Should be seeing spinner falls this weekend as well.
Brian was out yesterday in the AuSable boat and had a great float trip with Tom and Charlie Birch. They had a great day....despite the fact that it was a bit cool and overcast skies. Brian said that the Hendricksons never really got going and didn't see much surface activity at all. Fish were taking nymphs and a Hendrickson emerger/soft hackle that he ties. Also saw a few caddis flitting around....so it's game on as far as bugs go! Also stuck a few nice fish on streamers later in the day.
Today should be another story and we are surely going to get reports of epic Hendrickson hatches in the next few days. The bugs have been getting started around 3 or 4 p.m. but as the water warms, it will start to happen earlier. With the temps today and tomorrow, you might start seeing them anywhere between 1 and 4 p.m. Arm yourself with the right flies and you will have a blast.
4-14-15
Hop on over to Facebook, Google + or Twitter to see how the river is fishing today!!! Keith Kepler on a float trip with Pat Kelly......epic.
4-13-15
The Mad dropped perfectly over the weekend and folks were out in the upper river on Saturday and pretty much the whole river was fair game yesterday. The lower has a bit of stain to it still but is perfect streamer water. Should be a great week of fishing ahead.
The big news is that we did have reports of Hendricksons popping in the mid sections of the river yesterday. With that sun and heat it had to happen! Fish were gobbling up the nymphs early and then began rising in the mid to late afternoon. Parachute Adams #14 as well as Hendrickson dries were taking fish on the surface....and regularly. About time! Seems that the Spring dry fly season is upon us! Should be seeing Hendricksons throughout the river system for the next few weeks and will begin looking for spinner falls to provide good to great evening fishing any day now. Look for warm and still evenings and look up!
4-9-15
The Mad did finally give in and shot straight up last night. It will be a few days before we fish again.....especially with more rain predicted today and tomorrow. We'll try to let you know as it drops and comes into play again. Could again be a great streamer weekend? We are also really hoping for Hendrickson sightings next week once the water stabilizes.
We did post a few pics yesterday and will try to get some more today. Our inbox has been "flooded" with great pics and reports. Thanks to the great fly fishing community and friends we have for helping us do our job! It is much appreciated and we'll try to get to all of the photos and reports.
4-8-15
Great weekend for those that got out eh? Should get a few photos up on FB, G+, Tw and IG today from the reports that we got from folks. Turns out the river was in great shape for streamer fishing and it paid off.
Believe it or not, the river is in fine shape this morning. The rain has been spread out enough that the river is up just a bit with a little stain to it. Let's hope it stays that way for a few days here. Have had some Great reports of nymph and streamer fishing. The size 14 Hendrickson nymphs that we sell have been catching a bunch of fish, which is to be expected. Still no reports of any dry fly fishing but with the warmer temps in the forecast, we can't be far from Hendrickson sightings now! Keep us informed and we'll try to do the same!
4-4-15
The Mad got another bump last night but is again dropping like a rock. The upper river is fishable today and tomorrow the lower river could be KILLER streamer water. Should be pretty much back to normal with a bit of stain by Monday. Let us know how you do!
4-3-15
The Mad dropped like a rock for most of the day but is now back on the rise. Hard to say...but if we were betting....the upper river will fish tomorrow and maybe even the lower by tomorrow afternoon. Could be great streamer water. We'll see how the next 24 hours looks and try to let you know.
4-3-15
As expected, the Mad starting rising overnight and came way up and muddied. It has started to drop, but the verdict is out on whether this rain is finished or not. We will keep an eye on it and try to let you know our thoughts later today or tomorrow morning. Regardless, the river won't fish today and probably not tomorrow as it stands now.
* Do you get our E-News? Should be one posted to inboxes next week so if not....sign-up HERE
3-27-15
The Mad did come up pretty good with the rains the past few days but is dropping quickly and should be fishable for the weekend. Looks like it will be in great shape for streamer fishing. The upper river will be clearer of course and better for nymphs and potential dries.
Pretty much the same story as last week....streamers and nymphs are the way to go. No great reports of much if any dry fly activity yet and with the temps expected this weekend...probably not going to happen. Hendrickson type nymphs will be a great choice but the Black Stoneflies should still produce as well. Might also fish a large nymph like a cranefly larva or something like a Bitch Creek or Jimmy Legs and fish them slow through the deeper holes.
Still hoping that the temps stabilize and we start to see some of the early hatches soon. Look in the upper river for Blue Quills- size 16, BWO's size 18 and typically around the 1st week of April we start seeing the allmighty Hendricksons. They will typically start lower in the river in the late afternoons and work their way up the river as the month progresses. We'll let you know as soon as we start getting reports. If you see anything.....let us know!
03-20-15
The Mad has been on a slow and steady drop since Saturday and should be looking good for the weekend. Hasn't budged with the precip today and barring any unforseen monsoons we should be ok.
The lower river should still be good streamer water this weekend.....otherwise, you want to be tossing nymphs. A few reports of some Winter Stoneflies in the upper river but they should be tapering off here. Still a good bet to throw a size 14 black stonefly nymph or Copper John though. As soon as we start warming again we'll be on the hunt for Blue Quills and Blue Winged Olives to start hatching. This will primarily be an upper river event but you never know! Hopefully we are not far off from some dry fly activity..and of course will begin looking for Hendricksons around the 1st of April or so...depending on temps.
Best bet overall right now is either a streamer, or a nymph to imitate the maturing and active Hendricksons. We have a great specific pattern in the shop/online, or a size 14 Pheasant Tail will work well also. Size 14 soft hackle pheasant tail will also be in our arsenal as well.
Not doing anything Saturday the 21st? Help us ring in Spring with Jerry Darkes here in the shop. He's doing a seminar called "Tying and Fishing Tubes and Intruders" from 10-4. $65.00 per student and all you need to do is bring your vise and basic tools. 614-451-0363 to register!
03-13-15
Brian and Josh are headed to the Midwest Fly Fishing Expo in Warren, Michigan this weekend and that marks the end of the "Winter Show Season". That means Spring fishing starts next week!!!!!
Special thanks to all who attended the F3T Film Tour here in Columbus last week. It was a sold out show and looks like we raised over $3500 for Project Healing Waters. Job well done friends!
The Mad was up and running pretty muddy with the snow melt earlier this week and was coming into shape here today in the upper river...but then the rains came. Looks like we will probably be out of commission until the 1st of the week or so.
That being said, those that have been out have been doing pretty well. We have been seeing some of the Winter Black Stoneflies around but they will start to taper off as we ring in the Blue Quills, some BWO's and start thinking about Hendricksons within about 2-3 weeks here. Henrickson nymphs, or a size 14 Pheasant Tail are a sure bet for the next month or so. We are also finally getting some streamer water and a few big fish have been caught on meat.
With the show and event season coming to a close we are looking forward to keeping more up-to-date on reports. Check back 1st of the week and we'll let you know what we do...but if we don't.....feel free to call. We are always happy to share.
02-08-15
Wow....February already? We are still working hard on the new Blog concept for reports here and hope to have something to show you in early March or so. Until then....here's a few notes-
The crew had a blast at the "Greater Cincinnati Fly Fishing Show" yesterday. Our friends at the Buckeye United Fly Fishers always put on a great show. We made some great new contacts, sold some gear and signed a few people up for classes and trips. If you haven't been to this show, think about it for next year.
Next up is the Columbus Fishing Expo!!! We'll be at the fairgrounds Friday, Saturday and Sunday for this exciting event. MRO will have a huge footprint including an 80' casting area. Our own Brian Flechsig will be doing some demonstrations on the Hawg Trough each day and has now been wrangled into doing some spots for NBC 4 News and Fox 28 News. Watch for those to air this weekend. We'll also be joined by Ray and Kate Schmidt from TFO and they will have the full line-up of TFO rods for folks to try. We'll be slinging some good deals around so try and stop by if you can. Further details on the show can be found HERE.
The Mad has come up the past two days with the snow melt and should fish well today. As we have been telling you, it has been running very low and below normal, but the flows started an upswing yesterday and should create some decent streamer conditions the next few days. Otherwise, the river has been well below normal and we are still hoping for some above average precip to help us out. That being said, fishing has actually seemed to pick-up a bit, at least for some folks.
We have heard of and posted a few pictures of some 20+ and at least one over 25" during the month of January. Most on streamers but one big fish that we know of on a cranefly larva. A few folks have been having some fun in the upper river on Midges. A warm sunny day can provide decent dry fly fishing this time of year but they will mostly be smaller fish. Nymphs are still your best bet though and should continue to be throughout February. Good choices would be something that resembles our winter black stoneflies, about a size 12-14 and a Hendrickson Nymph, size 14, which are maturing and becoming active in anticipation of hatching in early April. Small red midge larva have been working well also...as usual for this time of year.
Go fish and let us know how you do!
01-08-15
Happy New Year friends! Thanks so much for your support this Holiday Season. It was our best on record and we have you all to Thank! Further proof that the specialty pro shop and old fashioned customer service still prevail.
Thanks also for your patience with Fishing Reports. We should be getting back to some regularity here but as always, feel free to call the shop. We are always happy to share what we know. That being said...stay tuned...as we are working on a new Blog format for our fishing reports that you are going to LOVE. We should have it up and running sometime in February.
Some cool things coming up in the next few months. Always be sure to check the Calendar...but here's a few highlights:
* Saturday, January 17th- Special Guest: Blane Chocklett- FREE program on Musky on the Fly- 7:00 p.m.- Click Here
* Sunday, February 1st- "Tying and Fishing Tubes and Intruders"- day-long class and seminar with Jerry Darkes- Click Here
* Wednesday, February 9th- Intermediate/Advanced Fly Tying with Mike Schmidt- Click Here
* February 13th- 15th- Columbus Fishing Expo- Click Here
* Thursday, March 5th- Fly Fishing Film Tour in Columbus- Click Here
Now onto the Mad......
Throughout December, conditions remained fairly tough due to the low water conditions. Most anglers were reporting very tough fishing and the late season streamer fishing that we normally enjoy was virtually non-existant. Most fish that were caught were on small nymphs and midges below the surface. Another strange facet was that the Upper river fished much better than the lower. Again....not what we normally see.
Then, last weekend we got the rain that we needed. The river blew out pretty good, and we are assuming took all of the green algae that was haunting us with it. The river has slowly now come back down to "normal" levels...but the temps are far from normal. Not too much fishing going on right now, but it does look like a warm up is coming next week. We should be able to get out there and hopefully get you some good reports..and maybe post a pic or two of some hogs on streamers.
12-6-14
The Mad is up...but not blown. Still pretty fishable and for those with good raingear, it could be a good streamer day. It seems that is has crested but we'll see and try to let you know. Best thing that could happen is that it continues to rain and keeps coming up!
12-5-14
Stll in need of some serious rain! Hopefully the forecast will come true and we'll get some tonight...but it's gonna take a few days worth to really get us cranking. That being said, fishing has either been really good or really bad for folks. Strangely enough, the upper river has been fishing a bit better, despite the low water. Most fish being taken on nymphs....either go really small, like size 16 or 18, or go bit with a double bead, cranefly larva or attractor like a bitch creek. A few folks reporting having found fish feeding on midges in the past few days. A nice sunny day will make this happen...if we ever get that. Pray for rain!
11-26-14
Turns out that the bump in flows was not that exciting. The Mad remains pretty low and in desperate need of a "wash out". The algae and muck that the summer months bring is lettting loose and floating downstream making streamer fishing pretty tough. Not that you can't do it, and won't catch fish...but still not the "streamer season" we are anxiously waiting for. Nymping is your best bet for sure and go with either small, mayfly types or larger craneflies or attractors. Did have some reports today of fish eating tiny midges in the upper river today but mostly smaller fish. Regardless, getting out and fishing won't hurt you. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here and if not fishing, stop by for the fesitvities this weekend.
11-24-14
The rain and snowmelt have bumped the river just enough to get excited about. Nothing huge but will certainly help. We are now thinking more in terms of streamer fishing the next few days. So are some of our customers...we are selling streamers like crazy today. Should be a great week on the Mad! We have guides out tomorrow and watch social media....we'll post as we go.
11-21-14
Wow the Mad is really low. We are in pretty desperate need of some precipitation. Looks like we may get a bit later in the weekend and early next week and it might help a bit....but we need a good washout to clear the leaves out once and for all! That being said....fishing has been ok. A few anglers reporting decent streamer fishing in the lower river and actually some fish being caught on dries in the upper river. This week we actually had a decent hatch of tiny BWO's and fish were rising to them. Also a few fish caught on Griffith's Gnat midge patterns. Otherwise, probably best to stick to nymphs. The Glint Nymph in particular...red, yellow or orange has been hot. Also have some Cranefly larva with you as well. Let's hope for a bit warmer temps and some rains!
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11-7-14
The rains haven't budged the Mad at all really...and the leaves are still hanging on. Tough fishing but still some fish to be had if you go. Otherwise, same report as last week. Hopefully some wind and rain next week!
11-4-14
Virtually the same report as below......as is usually the case this time of year. Big news is the leaves, which are making fishing tough to impossible right now. Hopefully, we should see some relief by the weekend or early next week, but we could still use a good "washout" and we don't see one in the forecast. If you do go, nymph fishing is your best bet. We have been catching some fish on smaller nymphs...as they are less likely to grab leaves. Once the leaves clear out we will go back to the larger stuff as well. Another technique has been to swing a large, gaudy dry fly on the surface. The movement has been getting attention and we have actually done suprisingly well on dries for this time of year. Although there are still some small, BWO type mayflies around, they have not been bringing fish up regularly. Regardless, we are anxiously awaiting some rain to bring the water up and flush the leaves so that we can get on to streamer fishing. We do have trips starting up around the 18th of the month and then pretty regularly so we'll have some good reports...and hopefully some pics of hogs!
10-8-14
Recent rain has improved the fishing a bit on the Mad...but only on the right days. A breezy or windy day will bring leaves down and make the fishing tough to impossible. This will be the case for the next 3-4 weeks and will only get worse. There has been some decent bug activity in the afternoons....BWO's, smaller Pseudocloen type mayflies and some smaller caddis have been hatching and some fish have been rising. The dry fly fishing has actually been pretty good at times. Best bet right now is a small caddis with a small nymph trailer unless you find them eating mayflies on the surface. Not a bad time to dunk an egg either or a San Juan worm, they typically work well this time of year. Streamer fishing will be tough until we get more water and wash the leaves out....but we can't wait!
9-13-14
Not much has changed on the Mad recently. The water is still low and clear, a good rain would make for a few days of really good fishing. Nymph fishing has remained the most effective technique, but with the low water fishing a nymph under a large dry can be a good way to approach the spooky fish. White Miller Caddis and Ephrons are still bringing fish up late in the evenings, try skating a caddis adult or swinging a soft hackles, the fish are often taking the emerging pupae which are good swimmers. The terrestrial fishing is slowing down with the cooler weather but ants and beetles will still bring some fish up. Things should remain the same for a while until we get some rain.
8-29-14
The water is low and clear on the mad but the fish have been feeding well, especially early and late in the day. There has been decent dry fly fishing in the mornings and evenings, Tricos and midges are bringing fish up in the early mornings, try trico spinners and Griffith's Gnats. In the late afternoon and evening try small ants, and just before dark the White Miller Caddis and Ephron mayflies have been bringing fish up. The best dry fly activity as been through Urbana and up. Nymph fishing has been good as well, fish have been taking a variety of nymph patterns so keep changing flies if your not getting bit. Good bets have been Trophy Nymphs, double tungsten stones, clouser swimming nymphs, san jauns, with small trailers of copper johns, PT's, and larger midges. Fish have been holding in faster cuts as well as deeper pools, keep moving around to find active fish and you can be rewarded big. Streamer anglers, if we get some rain there will be a short but very effective window. Try un-weighted patterns such as fat heads, double d's and blondes.
8-19-14
Fishing has been improving on the Mad as we begin to see some late summer insect activity. Flows are low and clear and we are finally beginning to see some better dry fly fishing. In the mornings fish are coming up to midges, a few tricos, as well as some small black caddis. In the evenings we are seeing the first of the white miller caddis and the Ephron mayflies, these hatches are stronger from Urbana downstream and you see the light colored insects right at dark. #14 Elk hair caddis or green soft hackles are great for the white millers, for the ephrons a peasant tail or Bear's CDC Ephron. Fish are also taking some beetles but small ant patterns are producing better with the low clear water. Nymph fishing and swinging soft hackles has also been good. Try larger attractor patterns with small caddis, pheasant tails, or even a #16 zebra midge as a dropper and focus on the deeper seams. Streamer anglers, we are waiting for rain but otherwise it's a tough time right now.
8-4-14
Not much has changed on the Mad lately, the water is fairly clear with moderate flows. Most summers July and August are prime time for beetle fishing the Mad, this year it has been a bit delayed, fish have been taking terrestrials but it hasn't been that great, our best guess is the cooler weather has kept the bugs from being as active. Either way terrestrials are taking some fish, mostly in the reaches above Urbana. There have been very few reports of trico's, the midges and tiny bwo's are out but the fish have not been that interested. The have been much more interested in soft hackles than dries, in fact that has also out produced nymphs most days. If you are looking to nymph fish have taken a variety of flies, some days it has been the big stones and craneflies, other days small hare's ears and caddis or even zebra midges. Oddly enough streamer fishing the mornings and evenings has continued to produce fish despite the low water, and the streamer fishing has been excellent during or just after rain events. Fishing should remain mediocre until mid to late august when the fish become more predictable and we get some hatches.
7-15-14
Good water conditions continue on the mad this summer, the water has remained higher than normal for summer levels and has kept a slight stain. This has made dry fly fishing difficult in the middle and lower reaches, but has made for some great streamer fishing on cloudy days and in low light conditions. Anglers looking to streamer fishing so try within two days of a rain storm or during the rain, there have been some great days with tons of fish getting caught on mid sized streamers; try peanut envy's, meal tickets and fat-heads fished fast and hold on tight. Anglers looking to fish dries should key in on larger terrestrials, some fish have been taking beetles and ants in the upper river in the afternoons. Nymph fishing has slowed as the fish have spread out into the flat and cuts and are not holding as heavily in the deeper troughs, caddis and larger attractors are still taking fish. Swinging buggers and soft hackles has been the go to lately and anglers are catching lots of fish on the swing.
7-2-14
Finally it looks like we have some more stable weather this season. The Mad is currently holding at a nice flow and clear. Water levels are higher than normal for this time of year but that has made for some easier fishing. Swinging soft hackles and buggers has been very productive and is a great way for anglers to cover lots of ground on the river. Anglers nymph fishing have had good success as well, look for any area with a deeper cut and there should be a fish looking to take a nymph. As usual larger nymphs are working well but as the water clear smaller caddis and pheasant tails will take more and more fish, copper johns are always a good summer pattern as well here. For dry fly anglers things are slowly improving, fishing terrestrials has been taking fair numbers of fish and as the water drops it will become very productive. Streamer fishing is still holding strong especially early in the morning or on cloudy days, best bets this week have been Lynch's Double D's and Meal Tickets.
6-24-14
Sorry for the delay in reports. The rain this month has kept us chasing the water levels on the river, this has kept the usual early summer dry fly fishing tough, but the soft hackle and streamer fishing has been very good. Right now the upper river is in good shape and the middle and lower portions through and below Urbana should be wadable in the next two days as long as we get no more rain. Keep an eye on the guages as we are supposed to get more storms tomorrow. Anglers that have been getting out have mixed reports, the best success has come to people who have been flexible moving around to find the fishable water. This week the upper river has produced very well, with fish taking large nymphs and soft hackles, as well as the larger fish falling to streamers. If your looking to get out this weekend streamer fishing should be excellent; aggressive streamers such as tommy Lynch's Double D and Galloup's Fatheads are top choices with the high flows. Anglers looking to nymph fish should stick to larger attractor and generic nymphs suck as #12 Hare's ears, princes, and pheasant tails, as well as san juans. If you are looking to fish some dries look for some fish taking terrestrials in the upper river, especially beetles, and as the water drops the fish look up to the mix of mayflies that are hatching, small olives, and some late cahills will draw the most takes from fish.
5-30-14
Great water conditions going into this weekend. The flows are a bit high and that can make getting them to eat alot easier. Streamer fishing is still a big part of the game but with the hot sunny days the streamer conditions are very early and late. Dry fly anglers are finding some rising fish in the upper reaches above urbana, especially late in the day. There has been a mix with a few cahills, some sulfurs, a handful of caddis as well as some fish taking ants and beetles, the big news is the brown drakes that should show up in the lower river any day. Once this big #8 mayfly hatches anglers lucky enough to be on the water in the evening will have some of the best dry fly fishing all year on the mad, and these bugs bring up the big fish! Nymphing has been good, of course brown drake nymphs have been a great choice as well as large hares ears, double stones, and trophy nymphs, drop a caddis pupae below and your good. With the good flows fish have spread out so try the small pockets and cuts as well as the pools. Late in the afternoon swinging soft hackles and drake nymphs will produce as well.
5-22-14
Quick update, a pop-up storm dropped 1.5-2 inches of rain on the mad last night. This has blown the river out for a bit. The upper river above Lippincott road should be fishable tomorrow. The rest of the river should be in streamer shape by saturday, just in time for those looking to catch some big fish this weekend. The upper river should nymph fish well this weekend and may have some good dry fly conditions as well, we have many types of insects hatching right now, a few sulfurs, some Cahills, a good mix of caddis as well. The big event with these water levels however will be the streamers. Big fish will be caught this weekend on big streamers, look for the best chance early and late but with the high water large fish will still take mid-day. Cover ground and change colors to find what the fish are looking for. Recently dungeons, meal tickets and ditch pigs have been taking nice fish, but no matter what you fish fish it fast.
5-19-14
With all this water the mad just continues to produce great fishing this spring. With high clear water the streamer fishing continues to turn out big fish, anglers who are able to get on the water during low light periods or when some rain comes by are doing best but some big fish have been taken in the high sun as well. With the trout as active as they may get all year fast retrieves will often trigger the most strikes from larger fish, keep changing colors as covering ground to find the big players. Swinging soft hackles and indicator fishing are both taking numbers of fish. With brown drakes around the corner fishing large mayfly nymphs with a caddis or copper john as a dropper is a good bet. Fish large holes but don't miss the small pockets near the bank that hold active fish through the summer. Dry fly anlgers are finding a few rising fish in the upper river, there are bugs hatching but few fish are rising to them. The best bet is in the smaller areas near W. Liberty, especially in the late afternoons and evenings.
5-10-14
More great conditions on the Mad this past week and things should stay very good with the rain in the forecast. Right now the water is a bit high and the color is perfect. Anglers are having good success indicator fishing, fishing nymphs below dries and especially swinging small streamers and soft hackles. With the high sun this past week ripping big streamers was a bit slow but with the clouds and rain in the forecast there will be some big fish caught this week on streamers. Dry fly fishing has been tough, there have been a few late hendricksons, some light cahills, a few smaller mayflies, some caddis and lots of terrestrials, but the fish have been more interested in the nymphs. Top nymph patterns have been double stones, trophy nymphs, hare's ears and galloup's sunk spinners, any deep resting areas or seams near wood will hold fish. Keep an eye on the gauge this week, the river will jump with the rain but drops in flow usually within two days.
5-3-14
The recent rains jumped the flows on the mad but things are back to fishable levels and fishing well. Hendricksons have been hatching but with the higher flows fish have been more interested in the nymphs and soft hackles, however anglers are finding a few fish taking dries in certain area, especially in the upper river. As mentioned nymph fishing and soft hackles have produced very well lately, standard PT's, hare's ears, copper johns and others are all taking fish especially in the mornings. As the bugs begin to get more active in the afternoons swinging soft hackles has been deadly. Streamer fishing has been and will continue to be very effective, especially on cloudy days and mornings and evenings. Galloups Dungeons, Fatheads, and Meal Tickets are all producing fish, move fast and cover ground and you can get rewarded big, we are still seeing photos every weeks of anglers landing really big browns.
4-22-14
Gotta love good spring conditions! Flows on the mad are clear and a bit high, just about perfect for spring fishing. Streamer fishing has been very good but as the clarity moves from clear to gin it becomes more of a low light game. Fishing large flies fast is still taking good numbers of large fish, we had lots of reports of fish over 20in this week. Nymphing has been good especially in the mornings with Trophy nymphs and hendrickson nymphs being top producers, but right now any nymph in the #12-14 range should take fish. The hendrickson hatch has started and every afternoon the bugs are coming off but we have not had any explosive hatches yet, the next two weeks should provide good dry fly fishing with these bigger bugs. Many anglers are reporting thier best success swinging soft hackles, this is always a good bet when the water is high and clear and is a great way to cover water. Flows should stay in great shape through the week and into the weekend for anglers looking to get out!
4-15-14
Quick update, the mad got a good shot of rain last night but the upper river should be high but fishable tomorrow and the rest of the river will be in good shape later this week. The water should be perfect this coming weekend!
4-14-14
Things are really getting good on the mad right now! We are finally seeing the first of the hendricksons, the water is a bit high for dry fly fishing but the water should be in good shape for the weekend. The cold weather tomorrow will slow things down but anglers can expect to see rising fish this coming weekend, keep some #14 hendrickson dries handy and fish Pheasant tails in the mornings before the hatch. Nymphing has been good, with the high flows a large fly such as a double stone or a cranefly with a copper john, san jaun, or PT trailing has been taking fish. Streamer fishing has absolutely taken off with the high flows, anglers are reporting big fish all through the river from W. liberty to the lowerst areas where it has been safe to wade. The big trick has been figuring out what retrieve the fish want, lately that has been just a fast rip. As far as flies the spring regulars; dungeons, fatheads, and peanut envy's where top bets this weekend, just keep changing colors until you find what the fish want. For anglers looking for some good fishing next weekends forecast looks like saturday and sunday will be temperate and cloudy, perfect spring conditions!
4-9-14
Continued rains have kept the middle and lower stretches of the mad high, by the end of the week if the water is low enough to wade the streamer fishing will be excellent. Bring out any big Galloup style streamer and start ripping, Fat heads and dungeons are top choices for big browns in these conditions. The upper river has dropped back into fishable shape, anywhere upstream of lippencott road is in good shape with a nice stain and good flow. Nymphing and swinging streamers will produce very well this week and into the weekend here.
4-1-14
Warm weather is heating things up on the Mad as we approach peak season on the river. Rain this weekend muddied up the lower river but things are in good shape now, with stained water in the lower reaches below Urbana and great water in the upper river. Nymph fishing remains the most effective method and will until things warm up long enough to get the Hendricksons hatching. When the water comes up craneflies, double stones and san juans have been hot, as things clear trophy nymphs and hendrickson nymphs have been top bets. Fish are moving into faster areas and pocket areas so don't forget to make a few casts into the small pockets as you move by, fishing a trophy nymph under a large dry is a great method to cover groung and catch fish in the shallower areas. Streamers continue to produce especially after rain events, low light helps but if the water is stained they produce all day. More aggressive patterns and presentations are taking big fish as the water warms. Patterns such as dungeons and fatheads are great this time of year, if your looking for the big bite try a ditch pig, fish these patterns on a sinking line with a jerk strip retrieve and hold on! There is rain coming this week but things should be in good shape this weekend.
3-25-14
Reports remain pretty much the same on the mad right now, the cold snaps are tough and the warming trends offer up some good fishing. There is some rain in the forecast that should make for some very good conditions this weekend. Streamers are still a good bet early and late, and will be a top option on rainy days or if the water comes up. This past weeks Blondes, dirty hippy's and dungeons did well, swinging buggers as always took a fair share as well, the key for streamers has been clouds or low light. Nymph fishing has still taken the majority of the fish, hendrickson nymphs and trophy nymphs in #12-16 have been very good, with many other patterns working great one day and not the next, keep experimenting and it will pay off.
3-14-14
After a bump in flow from the rain this week the mad is once again in great shape for the weekend. Anglers have had mixed reports lately with some people having great days and some others very tough days. The conditions are great though and the bump in fows will improve fish activity. Streamer fishing should be a good bet this weekend, low light conditions are best for larger patterns but some anglers have still had fish take streamers mid day. The best patterns have been Galloup's Dungeons and Bottoms up, but smaller patterns such as the dirty hippy and Zoo cougars have been good as well. Fish are also taking swung flies well, one effective approach is to fish a small sculpin or a bugger with a soft hackle behind it. Nymph fishing is still taking the majority of the fish right now, stoneflies and craneflies are still good choices but it is time to start thinking about the hendrickson nymphs, the henny's are one of the strongest hatches on the mad and the nymphs are starting to get active and the trout can really key on these #14 nymphs.
3-7-14
Finally we get some nice weather on the weekend! This warming trend and the bright sun is what we need to get the insects active and the trout should respond to the heat and influx of food. As far as fishing not much has changed as far as techniques, the water is clear and getting a bit on the low side for winter levels but is still in good shape. Look for fish to hold in deeper areas especially around wood, but some of the active fish will move into smaller faster areas adjacent to these pools to feed. Stoneflies are big on the menu right now, but don't discount craneflies and worms, and we should begin seeing the first of the Blue Quills soon so small pheasant tails will be a good option especially with the clear water. Streamer fishing will be tough on sunny days but there may be some decent action early and late on cloudy days, swinging smaller streamers will pick up some fish in the mornings especially. Keep and eye out for the first rising fish of the season, on warm sunny afternoons we will see midges, a few black stones and as mentioned the first blue quills will show up any day. Stick to small drab colored drys for the early season bugs, Griffiths Gnats, small Adams and winter black stone dries should have you covered.
2-28-14
Hopefully things will be warming up shortly, but for now it looks like we will be fishing in the cold a bit longer. The Mad has still been fishing well most days, with nymph fishing still the best bet. More of the same with Craneflies, small stonefly nymphs and worm patterns taking fish, as the water clears #16-18 red and black midges will take fish when they get picky. Streamer fishing has been ok, small and medium sized patterns fished tight to ambush points have been taking some nice fish especially on cloudy days. If nymph fishing is slow swinging small sculpins or wooly buggers has also been picking up fish. The stretches around Urbana have been best lately, hopefully we get some warm weather soon to get the first of the hatches going.
2-12-14
Things are finally looking up for the anglers in central ohio! The forecast is showing warmer weather this weekend and next week, this means good fishing on the mad. The water should stay clear this weekend with the slow warm up. Nymph fishing will be the best bet with cranfly larva and small black stones being the best choices for nymphs, smaller midges will also be good trailers. Look for slower areas especially around woody cover. Streamer fishing will be difficult with the low water but with rain in the forecast next week expect excellent streamer conditions next weekend.
1-31-14
Good news for anyone looking to wet a line this weekend, the mad river does not freeze so despite the extreme the past weeks there will be plenty of open water this weekend. Nymph fishing will be the most productive method with the cold water, small black stoneflies from a #12-16 and #16-18 midges and red copper johns will be the best bets. Anglers will also still have some success with craneflies and san jaun worms. Streamer fishing should be slow as the water has dropped to lower levels and the extreme cold. However swinging buggers will take fish, and the large fish will somtimes break the rules and take fast moving flies in the cold.
1-16-14
After the rain the other day the mad has dropped back into prime water conditions. Anglers have already been out catching some nice fish, with streamers producing well and that should continue through the weekend. With the cold conditions patterns that can be fish a bit slower and deeper can help, try dungeons and a cold water favorite the Bottom's up. The big fish will still cruise around and feed in the cold contitions but they often want to be pegged into the cover so fish close to undercuts and logs. Nymph fishing should be great this weekend, high water events wash out lots of big food items for the trout. We can't say it enough, get out there with the big nymphs, craneflies and double stones trailed with San Juans, copper johns or small stones can lead to some of the best numbers of the season. Look for areas of slow water where fish don't have to use as much energy and look for subtle strikes! The mad doesn't freeze so it may be the best bet around to cure cabin fever!
1-11-14
Quick update on the Mad. With large amounts of rain last night the river has gone way up. But it is already beginning to drop and the upper river should fish but be off color by tuesday, the middle and lower river mid and late week. These high flows will just mean more exceptional streamer fishing, and we have heard reports of several really large fish taken this past week. Nymph fishing in high winter flows produces some of our best numbers of the year as well. Fish will key on larger items washed out with the flow, craneflies and big stones will be the most effective patterns.
1-9-14
The cold has kept us from the river for a few days but the weather is warming so we will be out in force this weekend. Fishing was excellent before the cold snap, with streamers producing big numbers of fish and some nice ones, and nymph fishing producing some of the best numbers that we see all season. Keep an eye on the flows, if the rain coming does not blow the river out the fishing will be exceptional saturday and sunday. If we get enough to raise the water levels the fishing will be excellent when the flows drop, we will try and keep you updated if things change. Right now try moderate to large streamers and cover ground, lightly weighted or unweighted streamers on sink tips have been best. Remember to animate the fly as much as possible and be ready, the strikes have been fast. As far as the nymphing is concerned things are pretty much the same, try a large stone or cranefly with a small stonefly, caddis larva or #16 red or black midge behind it. The key has been good drifts and keeping the flies on the bottom where the fish are.
12-27-13
These are the conditions we wait for in the winter on the mad! High stained water and aggresive fish plus mild weather will make for some great fishing this weekend. Anglers have been catching big numbers of fish nymphing with larger nymph patterns such as double stones and san jauns, trailed with small black stones and caddis. When streamer fishing think big, larger patterns such as the Peanut Envy, sex dungeons and bottoms up work best. Keep changing colors until you find what the fish want.
12-23-13
Quick update on the mad. After almost 3 inches of rain and rising to some of the highest levels we have seen in a long time the mad is dropping fast and should be in good shape later this week and great shape this weekend. The upper river may even begin to fish tomorrow, and by thursday the whole river should be in great shape for streamer anglers. For those who don't want to throw streamers, large nymphs are very effective in the high stained water. This next weekend should be exceptional!
12-20-13
Here comes the water we have been looking for on the Mad! Lots of water in the forecast and the snowmelt already has blown the river out. This means the streamer should be excellent next week when the water comes down. Unfortunately there will be no fishing this weekend as the water should just keep going up. Remember when streamer fishing keep changing colors and covering ground, we normally use full sinking lines such as the streamer express and short heavy leaders ending in 12-15lb maxima tippet. Slap the flies as close to the bank as possible and rip them out, be prepared to loose a few in the roots and branches. Once the water begins to clear next week nymph fishing will be very productive. Larger nymph patterns often take more fish in stained water, #8-12 double stones, hares ear's, and cranefly larva are top choices, trail these with caddis larva or small black stones. Focus on areas near woody cover are where the bottom drops and the fish can get out of the main current. Big fish will be caught this week!
12-9-13
Classic winter conditions on the mad right now, moderate flows, clear water, and snowy banks. This normally makes for some very good nymph fishing. With the clear flow larger patterns may not take many fish, #14-16 black stones, green or white caddis larva and pheasant tails are always good producers in these conditions. Trailing a #16-20 zebra midge or red midge is very effective in these conditions as well. Focus on areas of moderate or slow current especially near woody cover or areas where sand bottom meets rocks. We are still hooking fish on streamers but mostly smaller fish swinging buggers, we need a major blowout before the streamer bite takes off.
11-29-13
The mad is clear and fairly low but the water levels have been holding well. With some snow on the ground this is real winter fishing. Streamer fishing has been difficult most days with the low water, if the water raises or it is a stormy day the bite will be good. On most days nymph fishing has been the key to good catches. Small winter stones will be important throughout the winter, #14-16 black sloans, copper johns, or microstones are good patterns to have. With the low clear water small pheasant tails and copper johns or larger midges work well as trailers below a stone. Large double stones and craneflies will take larger fish as well and a key if the water comes up.
11-18-13
A good bump from the rain yesterday has the mad up and muddy today. This means a real start to streamer fishing this winter. A few anglers have already taken some fish throwing big flies and the next few days should offer good conditions for anglers looking to score a big brown. Remember to fish fast and cover ground, try a mix of colors as the best color varies day to day, yellow, white, olive and black are staples, but any color may work on a given day. As the water drops the nymph fishing will get good, by wednesday the water should clear enough for nymphing. While the water is still stained fishing large nymphs such as Double stones and craneflies can produce good numbers as well as larger fish. Once the water clears we are starting into the winter pattern where small black stones and red midges produce well once the water is clear. There may still be a few fish rising around on the last few olives and on midges this week, so if your looking for dry fly fishing this may be the last chance for a while.
11-8-13
Not much has changed from the report last week except that the water is stable meaning the streamer bite will be difficult, try low light periods for the best shot at big fish. Nymph fishing remains good with more nice sized fish getting caught as more begin feeding as they finish spawning. Caddis larva have been very effective, along with larger nymphs and copper johns. Swinging flies has been taking good numbers of fish, soft hackles are always effective on the mad, try giving the fly a few small twitches though the swing. For those of you looking for some late season dry fly fishing the BWO's in the late afternoon are bringing fish up in some areas, try a #20 sparkle dun or a parachute, a few fish are taking caddis on sunny afternoons as well. Things probably will stay the same here until we get a major blowout, then hopefully streamer season will officially start.
11-1-13
Finally some rain! The mad made a big jump last night after the rain, this should push most of the leaves out of the system and get a few of the bigger fish moving. Level are dropping fast, tomorrow the flows will be fishable but the color will most likely be stained and possibly muddy, by sunday conditions should be good. Streamer fishing tomorrow may produce some big fish as the spawning activity has slowed down and a few are starting to feed. Try some standby patterns such as Dungeons, Fatheads, and Meal Tickets and cover lots of ground. Nymph fishing has been and will continue to be the most productive method, with smaller attractor nymphs and caddis larva producing best, don't for get some larger nymphs especially cranefly larva after these rains. There has been some good dry fly activity with #14 Tan caddis mid day and #20 BWO's in the evenings, if the fish are rising and not taking you dry try swining a soft hackle.
10-23-13
Fall fishing will continue on the mad despite the sudden cold snap. Fishing report is pretty much the same as before, water is clear and stable, leaves are still pretty bad, fishing is pretty good. Stick to caddis below and on top, with olives becoming more important especially on cloudy days. These cold temps will help move things along to streamer season so be prepared for the big fish to go on the feed here soon.
10-18-13
It looks like fall on the Mad, low clear water, lots of leaves, but there are plenty of fish to catch. There are good numbers of #14-16 caddis hatchin in the late morning and afternoons, these are important as dries but soft hackles often catch more fish. Nymph fishing with caddis and large nymphs has been working as well. Streamer fishing will take a back seat until the fish are done spawning, the larger fish have not been interested in eating as they have other things on the mind.
10-8-13
Some rain has finally hit the mad and it got a good flush of water, this will help with the leaves that had collected but they will remain a problem for some time. Fishing has been a little tougher on the mad lately with low water but this rain should help the bite. Nymph fishing will continue to produce the best, not much has changed since the last report, except the fishing will improve with the higher water. There is a chance of hooking some larger fish on streamers the next few days.
9-28-13
The fall season is upon us on the Mad. This means that the leaves will be a problem for anglers out for the next month. The fishing has been good but has slowed a bit with the super clear water. Nymph fishing will be the big thing here for the next few weeks, smaller caddis and Pheasant tails will be more important, but large nymphs are still effective. There have been some fish rising, especially on cloudy days in the upper and middle river. The White millers have all but disapeared but the Fall BWO's have started and the fish love these #18-22 olives, we will also begin to see some #14-16 caddis hatching over the next few weeks. Streamer fishing in the low water will be slow, but some anglers have continued to have some success in low light or even after dark.
9-17-13
Sorry for the lack of reports lately, we will be a bit more on top of things as the fishing continues to improve this fall. Right now the water is its normal low and clear and cool that we usually see in late summer. There have been some decent white miller caddis and ephron hatches in the evenings, and on cloudy or rainy days you can expect to see a few BWO's. Fishing the dries has been good when the fish are rising, but if they are not looking up try a soft hackle. Nymph fishing has been very good, fishing large nymphs such as Double Stones, Craneflies or a #10-12 PT or hare's ear, followed by a caddis pupae or large midge has been the go to rig. Rainy days have been better fishing, this weekend should be excellent and may bring enough rain to jump the water levels and give us some good streamer fishing.
8-19-13
Got to love what this cool summer has done on the mad. The water is in the low 60's or cooler depending on where you are in the river. This means the trout are in tip top shape and feeding heavily. Mornings and evenings have been best but there are fish to be caught all day. There are some fish rising to midges in the mornings, as well as great nymphing, terrestrials are still working mid day if it's sunny, then caddis and ephrons in the evenings. There are also some small olives around especially on cloudy days. Fish have been scattered so keep a watchful eye as you wade, there have been lots of very nice fish taken lately by anglers fishing shallow areas. Keep an eye on the weather, if we get some rain the streamer bite should be great.
8-10-13
More good news from the mad river, it continues to sustain excellent flows for this time of year. This coupled with the cooler weather has produced great conditions. Right now much as before terrestrial fishing and nymphing are top producers. But we finally are starting to get the late summer hatches. The White Miller caddis and Ephron mayflies are starting up and should continue for the next month. Look for these to hatch in the late evening and just after dark, a #12-14 white wullf or Parachute Ephron are great for up top, as well as a #14 caddis. One of the best tricks to these fish when they are rising to the caddis is to swing a green soft hackle, often they are eating the pupae and not the adults! The fishing is good so go and enjoy the nice weather.
7-31-13
The mad is in great shape for this time of year! After all the rain the river has good flow and great clarity right now. Fishing has been good, with terrestrial fishing and nymphing being the top options. Ants and various beetles have been top picks for dries, fish under limbs and on deeper banks near cover. Nymph fishing in faster runs has been a consistant producer as well, drop a caddis pupae or smaller pheasant tail below a large hare's ear, double Tunghead Stone, or cranefly. The streamer bite has been ok in low light condidtions.
7-12-13
Finally the rain has slowed and the mad should be stable this weekend. The fishing when the water has been down the past couple weeks has been good, especially the streamer fishing. This weekend will be no different with the higher than normal flows anglers looking to score a big fishing should be throwning large streamers looking for aggresive fish. With the warm water streamers such as Galloup's Fat head work great, along with staples such as Meal Tickets and Sex Dungeons. With the dropping water the terrestrial fishing should be excellent in the middle and upper stretches of the mad this weekend, try Japanese beetles and large foam attrators, Parechute ants are great if the fish are refusing the beetle's. Nymph fishing will also be effective, cranefly larva are a staple after periods of rain on the mad, also try attractors like copper johns and caddis always work in the summer.
6-26-13
Despite the round of storms that we have had this week the mad is still flowing steady and very clear. With the unstable weather the fish activity should be very good this week, especially during or just before rain. Try streamers in the low light or cloudy conditions, especially if the water level begins to rise. Nymph fishin and terrestrials have been the go to techniques right now. When nymphing many of the standard patterns, Hare's ear's, PT's, and caddis have been working well, but have some larger patterns such and double stones and craneflies just in case. One of our favorite techniques right now is blind fishing with beetles, try the Japanese Beetles, fireflies, ants, or inchworms and fish to overhangs. This is a great way to cover ground and catch fish with explosive takes, it is also a great way to take larger fish, a few anglers already have taken fish over 20 inches on beetles this summer. Keep an eye on the water levels, but for now the mad is the best thing going with the high water everywhwere else, get out there and fish!
6-15-13
With some much needed rain the Mad made a nice jump in flow and the river is now back in great shape. The Brown Drakes have been hot on the mad for the past week, and there should still be good numbers in the middle and upper river until the end of the week. This hatch can last well after dark so keep an eye out in the evening for these big bugs. The fish have lots of other insects on the menu through the day as well, there are still plenty of caddis around, as well as a few Light Cahills, and the first of the good terrestrial fishing has begun. In the afternoons look for the attenuata mayflies (#16-18 light Olive Mayfly), the fish seem to love these little mayflies and they lead to some great catches. Nymph fishing has remained excellent with caddis larva, pheasant tails, cranyfly larva and DT Stones as top producers. Soft hackles remain effective, especially in the faster areas, and streamer fishing in the morning and evenings should be great this week, especially with rain in the forecast.
5-29-13
The Mad continues to produce good fish and excellent fishing. The only major change in large nymphs, imitating brown drakes and tiny sculpins have started to produce really well. Try #12 Trophy nymphs, double tungsten stones, are large hare's ears. Sulpurs and caddis are still strong, but don't ignore the huge number of craneflys out there, this is a great time to fish a Daddy Long Legs cranefly imitation on the surface. Soft hackles also continue to produce really well, especially in areas of broken water.
5-18-13
Not too much has changed on the mad, there has been some rain and the river came up for a day and dropped right back down, remember the mad clears faster than any other stream in the state so always check the guage if it rains, it may be fishing. Heavy insect activity has continued with good numbers of caddis and some suphurs taking the attention of the fish. Nymph fishing and soft hackle fishing has continued to be productive when the fish are not rising, but prospecting with a dry often takes fish weather or not you see them rising. Streamer fishing has been good on cloudy days and in low light.
5-8-13
Good conditions continue on the mad right now. The water is clear with good flow and the bugs are out. There is a big mix of insects out right now, Caddis, Midges, Craneflies and some sulphers, henny spinner, and olives in the mix. Many of the fish have been taking caddis and swinging a soft hackle has been a great method for these fish. If your planning on nymph fishing PT's, Caddis, and hare's ears are all working well, though good drifts have been more important than the fly. Many anglers have been doing well and with the mix of insects most techniques have been taking fish, so pick your favorite and get out there.
4-30-13
This is going to be a really excellent week of fishing on the mad! Water levels are elevated but still fishable, the water is fairly clear, and the fish are feeding like crazy. With these conditions you can pick your technique; streamers, dries, nymphs, soft hackles, everything can produce in these conditions. The main event this week will be the fish looking up to all the caddis and hendricksons hatching with the warm sunny afternoons. The top choice here will be a #14 Hendrickson, but the fish are also taking tan caddis. Don't be afraid to prospect with a dry before and after the hatch as the fish are looking for bugs. Fishing nymphs will produce, especially in the mornings, PT's from a 12-16, Caddis, Princes, even craneflies and a few stones are producing well, the key is good drifts near the seams and cutbanks. If the fish are rising to the caddis and you can get them to take, try a green soft hackle. Streamer fishing will be good this week, especially early in the day. The warming water has the fishes metabolism high so look for them to aggresively take streamers high in the water colum, Fat-Heads, Zoo Cougars, and Swimmin Jimmy's fit the bill here.
4-26-13
Right now the mad is a bit on the high side but the streamer fishing conditions should be excellent this weekend. Look for fish to react well to aggresive presentations and bigger flies, Galloup style flies and techniques will be a great way to land a large fish. By tomorrow the upper river should be low enough to nymph fish as well, Hendrickson nymphs, Cranefly larva and attractor nymphs will all take fish. Remember to use enough weight to get down in the fast water. There should be sporatic Hendrickson and Caddis out, there may be fish rising in slower pools.
4-19-13
More rain and cold today but if there is a bright side it's that the streamer bite should continue well into next week. The river got another bump of water today but should be in great condition by sunday. The upper river should have good water for nymph fishing and possibly some fish looking up, hendricksons are key top and bottom. As for streamers, the large fish should be active so cover ground and fish gaudy patterns to triggers reactions, Fatheads and Meal Tickets have been great lately.
4-13-13
Looks like great conditions this week for streamers, stripping big articulated nasties should turn some large carniverous browns with the high water. Fish fast and cover ground looking for active fish. The upper river should also have excellent conditions starting tomorrow for nymph fishing and perhaps some hendricksons as well. There is rain in the forecast this week that should jump things back up but the fish will be on the feed until then.
4-6-13
Things are just about to open wide on the mad! There are finally a few Hendricksons hatching during the late afternoon, and with the warm days they should beging hatching consistantly. Right now Hendrickson nymphs and pheasant tails are critical, fish are really looking for these guys in the drift. Blind fishing a Hendrickson or a Parachute adams has brought a few fish to hand in the afternoons weather or not there are fish rising, drop a nymph below and you have a deadly combo. The warmer water temps have made swinging soft hackles a good option as well, try areas of brocken water for the best success. Unfortunately with the low clear water streamers will have to wait for the rain, but just after a good rain streamers will be excellent.
3-30-13
Great conditions on the Mad right now. With winter finally (hopefully) loosing its grip we should be heading into the best fishing of the year. The cold temps have delayed the major hatches but there are some olives and Blue Quills out, as well as a few stones. The fish have been looking up on some days but the nymph fishing has been more effective. Stoneflies and pheasant tails, as well as hendrickson nymphs have been the top picks for nymphs, but in the days after the rains don't forget the crayfly larva! Keep a close eye on the weather, if we get a good warming trend the Hendricksons should get going and the fish will go nuts. Streamer fishing has been excellent in the short windows after the rain, however once the water has cleared the streamer fishing has been more difficult.
3-8-13
It looks like it will be another good set of weekend conditions on the mad. As it warms in the spring the fishing on the mad tends to get more and more forgiving and this weekend should kick off the beginnings of spring fishing. Nymph fishing should be the top method this weekend and mayfly and stonefly nymphs are on the menu, it is even time to start thinking seriously about hendrickson nymphs. Fish are moving there way out of the deeper wintering areas and into good feeding zones, especially on warm days, so don't neglect the faster water! With these good sunny days the insect activity should start cranking as well. There should be some stones and Blue Quills out this weekend, try Winter Black stone dries or a #16 Para Adams if you are looking for the first dry fish of the year. There is some rain expected at the end of the weekend and this should make for some great streamer fishing for a few days, but then it will be right back to the spring hatches.
3-1-13
Great conditions for the weekend on the Mad! With the rains this week the water is a bit elevated and has some color making the fish a bit easier to fool. Streamer fishing should be very good the next few days. Anglers have had some success swinging wooly buggers and smaller streamers, especially for numbers. The largest fish should be looking for a big meal, try larger Kelly Galloup style patterns and fish them fast looking for the big feeding fish. There are lots of midges, as well as a few Blue Quills and Stoneflies already hatching, this means that the spring dry fly fishing is just around the corner! Right now the fish are concentrating on the nymphs that are getting ready to hatch, nymph fishing with #12-16 stonefly nymphs and pheasant tails is getting plenty of action. However with the off color water this week and weekend Cranefly larva have been excellent as well. This should continue to be good as the warmer weather in the forecast arrives.
2-12-13
Finally a bit of warm weather after more cold winter. River levels and clarity are very good right now on the mad and the fishing should be good this week. Anglers have had success nymphing and there have been lots of reports of some nice fish taken swinging buggers and moderate sized streamers. The winter stones will be very important the next few weeks, on warm days there should be some adults hatching soon, but the nymphs are the important stage. Large midge patterns in the #14-18 range are also important in the clear water conditions, but don't forget cranefly larva, these big bugs produce big fish.
1-17-13
It looks like the Mad is holding in prime shape for the weekend! There have been a few anglers getting out to streamer fish with the higher flows already. With the warmer weather early this weekend that will be a great option. Nymph fishing should be very good, stoneflies should be at the top of the list for patterns, but don't forget to drop a PT or a midge in the #16-20 off the back. Looks like it will be really cold next week so get out while you can!
1-11-13
Quick update, the mad got a big shot of water today and is blown out at the moment. This next week should have great streamer conditions!
1-8-13
Water conditions are still stable and not too much has changed, but with the weather forecast this week things should change. Warm weather and warm rain should mean great fishing this week and weekend. There should be a great window for anglers looking to streamer fish after the rains come through. However anglers looking to catch good numbers of fish should do very well this week. Larger stoneflies and craneflies are top bets after rain on the mad, but trail a #16-18 midge of PT for the picky fish. Don't miss out on this break in the winter weather!
1-2-13
Happy New Year! Mid winter water levels are moderate with very clear water, and very cold water. The mad river does not freeze but the snow melt and cold nights have cause the water temps to drop into the 30's. While the trout continue to feed they do slow down in the extreme cold and you should adjust to the conditions. Streamer fishing will be very difficult until we get a bump in flow and some warmer water, though the biggest fish will still normally be caught by the guys throwing big flies. Dry fly fishing may be a possibility on warm days, there are midges and small winter stones hatching, however there have been very few fish willing to rise. Nymph fishing will remain the top bet when the water is cold and clear, fish slowly and deliberately, these fish will not move far. Stonefly nymphs are a great bet this time of year, as are red and black midges and pheasant tails. Look for the fishing to improve as soon as the water warms.
12-22-12
Winter flows have been holding well on the mad and with the rain a few days ago we got another nice bump. Today the water is stained but fishable, perfect for streamers if you want to brave the cold. The rest of the week the water should be great for anyone looking to get out and nymph up some nice browns. Fishing patterns should hold steady through the winter with craneflies, midges, and stoneflys being the top food items. Try larger patterns if the water is up or off color and give the bigger fish a good reason to eat. When the water clears look for little black stones #14 or so with a #18-20 red or black midge to be the top combination. If you are looking for a big bite try large streamers after rain events.
12-11-12
The water is looking great after a needed bump in flows this week. A mix of techniques is catching fish and many anglers are choosing to forgo the indicators and swing wooly buggers or strip big streamers. This has been effective, especially swinging, but the bite has been hit and miss on the big streamers. Nymph fishing has been consistent with the classic winter food items,craneflies, stones, and red midges all catching good numbers of fish. This is a good time of year to take a few more drifts through a cut and add one more split shot as the trout will often be a bit more lazy to move for a small meal.
11-19-12
With the lack of rain the conditions on the mad have chaged very little since the last report. Nymph fishing remains the most effective technique but a few anglers are connecting with streamers, especially swinging wooly buggers. Look for fish to begin concentrating in deeper areas and feeding more in the afternoons when the sun is on the water.
11-8-12
The water has dropped and is running clear and stable at great flows for fall fishing. Most of the leaves have washed out which means we can once again make a drift without snagging leaves. Nymph fishing is the top choice for techniques with caddis pupae and pheasant tails leading the charge, but don't neglect copper johns and midge larva. Swinging soft hackles and small streamers is also very effective right now, this is a great way to find fish and learn new water on the mad. Streamer fishing will continue to get better as the fish recover from the spawn, look for the next major rain event to get the big fish on the hunt.
10-31-12
It took several days of rain but the mad has finally gone up. This should really take care of most of the leaves in the river and get the fish on the move. Nymph fishing has been the vest bet and will still be a top choice through the winter. Right now it often pays of to try and grab some attention with an attractor pattern such as a copper john, or a large nymph, and follow them up with a caddis pupae or a pheasant tail. Look for fish in slower pools near wood or along seams, as well as in smaller cuts. There are a few BWO's and midges bringing smaller fish to the surface but not in any large number. Streamer fishing is once again beginning to work, right now fishing lighter sinking lines and natural colors has worked best, it should only get better from here.
10-11-12
With a few good showers in the past few weeks the Mad has some more water in the system and better flows. While the flows are good the leaves are a problem, on calm days they are not to bad but if it is windy they become a nuisance. This will be a problem for the next several weeks but if it is calm it shouldn't keep you from fishing. Nymph fishing has been the way to go lately, with caddis pupae, pheasant tails, and copper johns being top producers. Look for active fish to key in small pockets and near cutbanks, many of the large pool accumulate leaves so they are difficult to fish. On cloudy days you can still find some rising fish in the flat areas, there are still sporatic #20 BWO's hatching and a few fish are taking advantage. Streamer fishing will pick up after the leaves have dropped.
9-21-12
The lack of any drenching rain has kept the mad from moving anymore than a quick bump with the recent showers. This weekend should bring a few more showers and hopefully the flows will bump and the trout will feed heavily. Nymphs have still been the go to, the fish are still in areas where they feel secure with the low water. Deeper holes, areas near woody cover, and broken water are all hot spots for trout right now. Caddis pupae, prince nymphs, and pheasant tails are still the go to patterns, remember the fly is much less important than the presentation. There are still a few good dry fly opportunities, the white millers and ephrons are winding down but are still available to the fish. On cloudy days and in the evenings there have been some large BWO hatches, fish will key on these more a little later in the season but some fish have been looking up. The leaves have been a nuisance on windy days but are not to bad when it is calm.
9-7-12
It looks like the low water may be coming to an end on the mad! With rain forecasted tonight and tomorrow followed by cooler weather. This should really kick things into gear for the fall fishing. There should be a short time of good streamer fishing, but the dry fly and nymph fishing should be very good next week. Right now there are still white millers dancing around the riffles in the evening, as well as plenty of Ephrons just before dark. The biggest hatch right now are the olives, there have been large hatches of smaller #18-#22 olives during any low light periods. When the fish have been coming up they have been suckers for a #18 parachute or sparkle dun. Nymphing larger pheasant tails and hare's ears with caddis pupae or small copper johns has been the hot ticket during the day. Look for any area with a little depth or some good current and there should be fish.
8-17-12
Now that the fishing has begun to improve on the mad we should be updating the reports more often. With the recent cool nights the first of the late summer hatches have started and the fishing has gotten better. We saw the first of the White miller caddis this past week, as well as a few Ephrons. This means make sure you have some #14 Green soft hackles, especially in the evenings, these large light colored caddis are very active at dusk and the fish eat lots of the pupae as they hatch. During the same time the Ephron mayflies should be hatching in moderate numbers and the fish will take the duns readily. Look for both of these hatches to be the strongest just before dark in the middle and lower portions of the river. There are still tiny BWO's hatching sporatically mid morning and again in the evening, these will bring some fish to the surface especially in the mornings. Nymph fishing has also been productive, caddis pupae, sparkle maggots, and small pheasant tails are working well, but don't be afraid to put on a large nymph or small stream and drift a bigger meal in front of the fish.
8-9-12
Recent rains have given a little flow and added some color to the river for a short time. If you can catch the river with some stain the fish can be more forgiving than they often are in the low clear water. Currently the only hatch bringing fish to the surface is the pseudocleon hatch, look for the very small #24 blue winged olives to hatch mid morning and again just before dark. Beetles and ants are still taking fish, especially in the morning and late afternoons, don't be afraid to offer a larger meal to a fish sipping those little mayflies. The fish have been responding well to many different nymph patterns. If your nymphs keep snagging bottom try a dry dropper rig with a hopper on top. The fishing has been technical and will remain so on the mad until with begin out fall hatches in a few weeks, but there are some nice fish getting caught and just after rains the fishing can be much easier.
8-1-12
Despite the continued lack of any real rain and the beating summer heat the Mad is holding some flow and the fish are still biting. There have even been a few good reports of nice fish being taken on beetles. With the bright sunny days fishing has been best in the mornings and evenings. There have been some caddis dancing around in the evenings and the fish have been receptive to swung caddis pupae. There have been very few reports of good trico hatches this summer, but there have been a few small Blue Wing Olives hatching in the mid to late mornings. Fishing beetles under overhanging trees in the morning has been producing fish. Fishing nymphs has been producing fish in the deeper faster areas, however, with the low water the algae has been difficult to keep off of the nymphs.
7-9-12
Sorry for the lack of reports lately, we have been busy and the reports got put on the back burner. With the lack of rain the Mad is low and very clear, and to add to the challenge the biggest hatch on the river right now is the Canoe hatch. But even with the tough conditions don't be discouraged. The fish are very used to the boat traffic and often begin feeding only moments after the canoes float by. The biggest challenge to the angler right now is getting close to feeding fish, stealth is key to catching many fish right now. With the food items on the mad in the summer ranging from caddis to mayflies, midges, and lots of terrestrials, fly selection has not been as important as patience. Make your casts count, look for areas where fish have some overhead cover and a little depth. Ants and beetles have still been top fish producers on the surface, you may not see many fish but each one should take on a good cast. Fishing nymphs in areas with current or near cover has been the most effective technique lately, try any midsized nymph, with caddis and pheasant tails being excellent. In the mornings there have been some Trico's, mostly in the middle and upper stretches of the river. These little mayflies bring lots of fish up in the early morning, a #22 trico spinner is all you need for this hatch. There are some cooler nights in the forecast and even a chance of rain this weekend so hopefully the fishing will improve.
6-16-12
Summer has arrived on the mad with clear water and lots of brush overhanging the water. This means the terrestrial bite has begun with japanese beetles on the top of the list, especially on warm, breezy afternoons. However, just because the beetles are out doesn't mean there are not any hatches to fish. There are lots of caddis on the water, and the fish are feeding heavily on the pupae prior to and during the hatch, swinging soft hackles in the riffles has been a great option during the morning and early afternoon when they are looking for the pupae. There are still some mayflies out as well, the attenuatas are hatching in the evenings in the middle and upper streches bringing lots of fish to the surface. The brown drakes are done but there have been reports of a few Hex's on the water in the late evening, these are not a major hatch here but fishing the dry in the evenings may bring up a few fish and the nymphs will take fish well around soft bottomed areas.
5-25-12
Perfect flows and excellent color combined with good hatches has made the Mad a great place to fish lately. There has been lots of mayfly activity with Sulfurs hatching in the late afternoons bringing lots of fish to the surface. Ants and beetles are already catching fish, and there are plenty of caddis hatching so there is no shortage of insects for the trout. With the number of caddis hatching and the good flows swinging soft hackles has been a go to for many anglers and some large fish have been landed swinging lately. The big show has already begun however, anglers are reporting Brown Drakes have begun to hatch in the lower portions of the river. This big bug (#8) hatches in the evening and the spinners fall after dark, this hatch may be the best chance at a large fish on a dry here. The Nymphs for this hatch are very important as well, fish them deep or as a dropper during the day, and then in the evening fish the emerger under and adult or swing the nymph. This hatch will only last for a week or two so if listening to a large fish taking a dry at night appeals to you get out while you can.
5-03-12
Summer like weather this week has kicked off the sulphurs on the mad and really made the dry fly fishing the top choice. Look for these to start hatching early to mid afternoon and keep and eye out for spinner falls in the evening. The sulphurs on the mad tend to be very green so have some #16-18 Olives as well as the classic yellow immitations to keep on top of what the fish want. Cloudy and rainy days have brought good olive hatches as well as excellent streamer fishing for those anglers willing to brave the rain. Nymph fishing with caddis pupae and pheasant tails has been a great way to catch some fish before the bugs begin to hatch, many anglers are simply dropping a nymph below a dry to find what the fish want more on a given day. Keep and eye on the gauges, recent rains have muddied the river but the water has cleared by the next day, currently the river is in excellent condition.
4-27-12
Good spring fishing continues as the bugs continue to hatch. Yesterdays rain has the water stained but the mad usually clears within one to two days and is already in great shape. With plenty of rain in the forecast streamer fishing should be excellent on rainy days or if the water is off color. This time of year cover lots of ground and fish the streamers fast! as the browns are out to chase. The other big bonus of the rains is big BWO hatches, look for fish feasting on the #18-20 spring olives during the afternoons of cloudy or rainy days. There are still some handricksons hatching in the afternoons, and there are more and more caddis hatching everyday. Swinging soft hackles has been and excellent way to catch good numbers of fish any time of day, the same can be said of fishing a larger dry with a pheasant tail or caddis pupae dropper. Nymph fishing with a caddis larva or attractor pattern followed buy a small caddis or baetis nymph has also been effective. Look for fish to use the pockets along wood and the cuts below riffles heavily this time of year.
4-06-12
Despite the lack of rain the Mad is still running with good flows and the water is exceptionally clear. The Stoneflies are gone but the Hendrickson hatch has been gaining momentum and as higher numbers of bugs hatch more fish look up for a meal. As far as method not much has changed the fish are just rising more steadily. Fish Hendrickson nymphs and caddis in the morning, switch to swinging soft hackles and fishing emergers in the early afternoon and once the bugs begin to hatch go dry. Make sure you have plenty of Henny's and the emergers in your box, the clear water gives the fish a good look at your immitation so having the right one can be the key.
3-19-12
It looks like the Mad has been missed by the rain that has been through the state this past weekend. This means the river is still in great shape with good flow and very clear water and lots of bugs hatching! Lately there have been huge numbers of stoneflies every afternoon, as well as some sporatic caddis. Both of these are more important as nymphs but the fish have been taking them of the surface as well, try skating a #12 black caddis or stimulator to imitate the stoneflies, and a #14 tan Butch Caddis for the big early caddisflies. There are still some blue quills hatching in the afternoons, fish will rise to these mayflies more readily than the abundant stoneflies, try a #16 BWO or adams when these are hatching. The hendricksons, our main event on the mad are already out and the fish are taking them. This hatch should strengthen over the next week and should be strong through the first half of April. The fish eat these #14 mayflies from top to bottom. Start out in the morning nymph fishing with a hendrickson nymph or a pheasant tail, when the hatch starts you can just fish the dry or drop an emerger of the back for the picky fish. For the dries you check out the hendrickson on our early season hatches page, Bears Para henny is a favorite especially if you want to put a nymph below the dry, and try galloups drowned spinner in rust, this pattern doubles as a great henny emerger! Another great method right now is swinging soft hackles, this is a great way to pick up fish through the afternoon and evening, especially in the faster pools. Nymph fishing has taken a back seat to the dries, but it is still a good option, especially in the mornings before the hatches start. With all of the insects hatching caddis, stonefly, midge, and mayfly immitations will all work, but keep a hendrickson nymph on for the next month. Streamer fishing has slowed with the warm sunny weather, however some big fish are still on the move in the mornings and evenings.
3-08-12
Spring is starting to show on the Mad and it is time for the dry fly season to start! Right now the Blue Quills are begining to hatch and giving anglers the first good opportunities at fishing dries since the fall. Look for these #16-18 Mayflies to hatch during the warmest portions of the afternoon. Classic blue dun patterns, #16 BWO parachutes, or even an Adams will take fish rising to the Duns. Nymph fishing with Black stonefly nymphs, Pheasant tails, and Phlamin Pheasants has been effective. Right now the fish are keyed on the insects getting ready to hatch over the next month, look for fish moving into faster feeding lanes and keying in on these #14-16 nymphs. Streamer fishing has still been a good choice, but with the water remaining very clear the best times for streamers have been cloudy days or mornings and evenings.
02-25-12
Sorry for the lack of reports lately, we have been busy in the shop and reports have taken a bit of a backseat, this won't be a problem now that we are moving into march. The Mad has leveled out with good flows and very clear water. This has given anglers stable fishing through the past few weeks. Nymph fishing has been the most effective with small stoneflies being a key pattern, small Pheasant tails or copper Johns have been good droppers. Streamer fishing has been OK with the best days being overcast or rainy, on sunny days stick to early morning or evening for the best chance at a big fish. There have been some insects hatching, small winter stoneflies and midges are popping up on the warm sunny days and a lucky angler may find some fish rising in the upper river, but so far there have been very few fish looking up. This should change in the next few weeks, especially once the Blue Quills begin hatching in march.
1-27-12
After another big shot of rain the Mad is out of shape for a few days, but the river clears very quickly and the upper river should be fishable Sunday. This winter the Mad has been a yo-yo but for those anglers willing to watch the guages and change with the flows have had consistant success. With the high flows throughout the winter many anglers have been fishing streamers and some very large fish have been caught. With the cold water finding the right retrieve is the key to success, so keep experimenting and keep at it, once you find what they want it has been great. Nymph fisherman have been having the most consistant success this winter. Fishing deeper pools and cuts has kept many anglers hooked up. The best flies change with the flows, shortly after a spike in the flows larger patterns such as San Juan Worms, and craneflies with stonefly droppers have been best. Once the flows stabilize fish key on midges and small mayfly nymphs fished behind stoneflies.
1-4-12
It looks like the new year will be more kind to anlgers than 2011 was. With unseasonably warm weather this week and no rain before the weekend things are looking great for anglers looking to get the first brown of the new year. Flows are still on the high side but are very fishable through most of the river, the lower portions will still be difficult to wade for a few days but should get easier as the water drops. Nymph fishing will rule as the water drops, the water is clear and cold so getting your flies to the bottom will be the key to catching fish. With the high flows craneflies are still a top producer and will usually account for the larger fish taken on nymphs, #12-16 black stoneflies are also a top option and will remain so until late winter. Small midges and Pheasant tails are always a good option in the winter, #16-20 zebra midges, brassies, and red copper johns are always great trailing patterns, especially in the upper river. As the winter progesses we can usually expect to find some fish rising to midges, especially in the upper river, though with the high flows this winter this will sporatic at best until the flows drop. Streamer fish has remained great with the high flows, swinging streamers is always a great way to take winter fish in high water, swinging wooly buggers slow and low will take some fish on almost any winter day. With no snow to cool the water temps the fish have remained aggresive to stripping streamers. Weighted patterns the drop on the pause have been the best producers lately.