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Mad River Outfitters Fishing Reports

Fishing Reports- 1/26/18

*
Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information!
These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of
information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and
we currently don’t have a set schedule as to when we update. Please,
just because we don’t update as often as we like, it doesn’t mean that
we don’t care.

There
are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good
game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things
change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only.
Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from
time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read
elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don’t forget to call us if you need
any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363


Thanks
as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more
conducive we should be reporting more regularly….but we need your
HELP!


Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we’ll do our best to get them up.


Jaunuary 2018 Peacock Bass Trip- Brazil

The
2018 Peacock Bass Group pictured here with host Brian Flechsig, Guides
and Camp host Alejandro Caures. The group landed 1284 peacock bass
during the week and had a blast as always. They were right on the
equator on a river called the Xeuiriuni. Tons of footage and photos to
come…….

 
Shane Chamberlin from Robinson Creek, Kentucky with the fish of the trip. Just over 19lbs on the Boga!


2019 Peacock Bass in Brazil

January 12th- 19th

host Ryan Ratliff

Click Here for the pricing and details!
Next Up!- Andros Island Bonefish!
February 17th- 24th
host Pat Kelly
Should be posting reports as they come in from Andros. Stay tuned……
 

Now back to reality…….
Our 1st report of 2018 as pretty much everything has been locked up…..but things are chaning a bit here for the better.
Wow
what a crazy winter it has been so far.  Everything started out low
then it seems like overnight rains came that turned directly into over a
month of arctic conditions.  The past month has been a crazy roller
coaster of temps too.  We have had everything from -6 to pushing 60 and
heavy snow to heavy rain.  We are all dealing with cabin fever and
hoping for stable weather…but it is still winter in Ohio!  These past
few warm ups have been welcome though.  Fishing is still limited
to Trout and Steelhead for the most part but if you do happen to find
good water locally let us know!


Mad River


There
were a couple times that the lower river had slush and even reports of a
few spots of anchor ice forming, but the Mad as usual, produced through
the cold. The river is dropping from the snow melt and looks to be a decent weekend. 

Those
nymphing have been the most successful.  Double nymph rigs with a heavy
tungsten beaded fly and then a smaller unweighted nymph is our usual
setup.  We start with a black Double Stone, Cranefly larva, or jig nymph
and then follow that with a small soft hackle like the Purple Haze or a
Peasant Tail, Prince, or Hares Ear.     This rig does not differ too
much from other times of the year just make sure you are dropping down
in size for your flies.  Fishing this rig with a long slow drift has
been a must.  For those giving the tight line nymphing techniques a try
they have found it much easier to deal with the cold air temps.  With
only leader material out of the rod ice in your guides is not much of a
problem.  Also make sure to always have one black pattern on your rig in
the 10-14 range.  This is the time of the year we start seeing our
Little Black Stones/Winter Stones.

Streamers have also been a
choice for those finding those small windows of ideal conditions.  It
seems that all of us streamer junkies have been itching to get out. 
Individuals who have kept an eye out for dropping flows after some rain
have been rewarded.  Mini Dungeons, full sized Dungeons, Bottom Up,
Cougars, and other have been very productive.  This past week has also
produced some nice fish on streamers and will continue into the
weekend. 
 

Seasonal Tactics:
Nymphing
is the key this time of the year.  For this we like to fish long rods,
indicators, and two flies.  The Rio Indicator leaders really help you
cast these rigs.  The main go to nymphing sticks are the Sage ESN,
Redington Hydrogen, TFO BVK and the new Pieroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to
name a few.  Tight line, High Stick, or Euro style tactics are also very
productive. Grab a Euro Nymph and Euro Nymph line for that style or the
Trout/Steelhead line for indicator/bobber fishing.  If you want to
build your own leaders then add some Amnesia, Maxima Chameleon, Rio Two
Tone Indicator tippet and a pack of tippet rings to your cart.  Don’t
forget the Fluorocarbon tippet also.

Flies to have right now are
nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear,
Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the
Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  As we move further into winter
conditions have some Phlamin Pheasants, Steelhead Candy, Formerly Known
as Prince, and Shop Dips to name a few.

Streamer fishing into the
winter will consist of timing flows that are on the fall.  This window
is very small, but well worth the wait.  Without the crops in the fields
look for the water to take a bit longer to clear out, but that just
means a few more hours for us streamer junkies.  When the conditions
hover around freezing ice in the guides is just something that we deal
with.  Stanley’s Ice off Paste helps along with tapping the grip of the
rod to shake off the excess water. 

Rigs for streamer fishing
consist of 6-8wts and a sink tip line.  Fill your fly boxes with a vast
array of fly colors and designs.  Galloup’s Dungeons, Bottoms Up, and
Articulated Fatheads flies are a good start.  Also take a look at Kelly
Galloup’s book Modern Streamers for Trophy Trout to help you sort things
out.  As always shoot us a call if you want a guided streamer trip.  We
run these all winter and typically produce some of our biggest fish of
the year. 

Adding some spey casts to your arsenal can help keep
the ice in the guides to a minimum.  This is specifically helpful when
nymphing.  The 9’6″ 5wt or 10’6″ 6wt Pieroway Renegade combined with the
appropriate SA Anadro or Spey Lite Scandi are the top choices.  Also
bring along your tenkara rods as this is a great option for the winter. 
Combine these with the 4.5 Tenkara USA Level line and a yarn indicator
if needed and your set.  

Forecast:  
Weather
next week will bring us more below freezing temps.  As of right now
everything looks like it will be hit or miss for decent weather.  Winter
in Ohio means diversity and keeping your tactics flexible will be the
best bet.  Continue with the nymph rig and focus on your black Double
Stones, Copper Johns, and especially Wiggle Stones.  Make sure your rigs
are fished close to the bottom with long slow drifts.  Having a dropper
of a Squirmy Wormy, Purple Haze, or Shop Dip will be a good start.  If
streamers are your game focus on flies with a jigging swimming motion
close to structure.  The flies to have are Bottom Ups, Dungeons, Legals,
and sculpin patterns.
  


Clearfork River
Clearfork Map

The
upper river is currently high and off color.  If you are local keep an
eye on the conditions as there will be some good streamer water later
into the weekend and early next week.  Nymphing too will be a good
choice as long as you know the river well and target undercuts and other
structure.  If you are nymphing keep an eye out for Winter Stones. 
These aquatic nymphs climb out on the banks to split their exoskeletons
and emerge as adults. The nymph stage is the most productive pattern to
match here.  The upper river is mostly private so make sure you are
following all of the state’s regulations for obtaining access
permission.  Just entering at the bridges like on the Mad does not make
it okay. 

The lower river has also been producing.  A mixed bag
is always possible down there.  This time of the year Saugeye have a
tendency to stack up below the dams across the state.  Here they are
gorging themselves on dead or crippled shad that pass through the dam. 
Fishing shad streamers or the above nymph rigs have been producing. 
 

Seasonal Tactics:
Like
on the Mad, nymphing is the key this time of the year.  For this we
like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  The Rio Indicator
leaders really help you cast these rigs.  The main go to nymphing sticks
are the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, TFO BVK and the new Pieroway
Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  Tight line, High Stick, or Euro style
tactics are also very productive. Grab a Euro Nymph and Euro Nymph line
for that style or the Trout/Steelhead line for indicator/bobber
fishing.  If you want to build your own leaders then add some Amnesia,
Maxima Chameleon, Rio Two Tone Indicator tippet and a pack of tippet
rings to your cart.  Don’t forget the Fluorocarbon tippet also.

Flies
to have right now are nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides
Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout
nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  As we move further
into winter conditions have some Phlamin Pheasants, Steelhead Candy,
Formerly Known as Prince, and Shop Dips to name a few.

Streamer
fishing into the winter will consist of timing flows that are on the
fall.  This window is very small, but well worth the wait.  Without the
crops in the fields look for the water to take a bit longer to clear
out, but that just means a few more hours for us streamer junkies.  When
the conditions hover around freezing ice in the guides is just
something that we deal with.  Stanley’s Ice off Paste helps along with
tapping the grip of the rod to shake off the excess water. 

Rigs
for streamer fishing consist of 6-8wts and a sink tip line.  We have
some of the new Kelly Galloup’s AirFlo lines in the shop that will be
perfect for this type of fishing.  These are what we have been waiting
for a long time!  Fill your fly boxes with a vast array of fly colors
and designs.  Galloup’s Dungeons, Bottoms Up, and Articulated Fatheads
flies are a good start.  Also take a look at Kelly Galloup’s book Modern
Streamers for Trophy Trout to help you sort things out.  As always
shoot us a call if you want a guided streamer trip.  We run these all
winter and typically produce some of our biggest fish of the year. 

Adding
some spey casts to your arsenal can help keep the ice in the guides to a
minimum.  This is specifically helpful when nymphing.  The 9’6″ 5wt or
10’6″ 6wt Pieroway Renegade combined with the appropriate SA Anadro or
Spey Lite Scandi are the top choices.  Also bring along your tenkara
rods as this is a great option for the winter.  Combine these with the
4.5 Tenkara USA Level line and a yarn indicator if needed and your set. 

 

Forecast: 
This
weekend looks like a slight chance of rain that might keep the upper
river high.  Check the flows and keep the lower as your backup plan. 
Next week looks like the typical Ohio winter weather.  Keep some Ice off
Paste on hand and your tactics diverse.  Look for the stream to be
slushy as we get further into the week.



Clear Creek

Clear Creek Map

Flows
are currently high and off color.  Before the big melt last weekend the
fishing was decent with most fish being taken on the usual caddis
nymphs and small Pheasant Tails.  We have not been able to get much
access into the park with the weather. 
 

Seasonal Tactics:
Rigs
for nymphing will consist of 3-5wt 9-10′ + rods.  These rods provide
great control, feel, and reach.  Although this creek is not very big a
long rod allows for the best presentation and longer drifts.  Use a Rio
Indicator Leader when float/bobber/indicator fishing or a Rio Euro Nymph
leader when using Tightline tactics.  Streamer rods for this situation
will be fast 4wts or 5-6wts.  An aggressive Scientific Anglers MPX,
Wulff Ambush or Rio Grand a 9′ leader and a weighted streamer will set
you on the right path.  As for Tenkara we really like the TFO Cutthroat,
Tenkara USA Rhodo, Amago or Iwana for this creek.  Match those rods
with either the Level Line 3.5/2.5 or the Tapered Nylon leader by
Tenkara USA and you are ready to go.  If you want to use a small yarn
indicator then bump your line up to the 4.5 Level Line or a Furled Mono
that matches the rod length or slightly longer. 

Flies to have
going into winter will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva,
Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical
trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  Streamer
fishing will require Mini Dungeons, Barely Legals, Wooly Buggers, Autumn
Splendor, Clousers, Trick or Treats, Orange Blossoms, Cougars, Wooly
Sculpins, Cactus Wooly, and Near Nuff Sculpin to name a few. 

Forecast: 
Looking
into next week there will be a small window of ice free guides, but as
long as we do not get too much rain the creek should be back to normal
by early-week.  Focus on nymphing black Double Stones, Copper Johns, and
Wiggle Stones as your main flies and either a Soft Hackle or Purple
Haze as your dropper.  Keep a few caddis nymphs and Squirmy Wormy
patterns on hand just as another options. 




Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps

The
past few days have been the first good shots at open water and good
conditions.  Those that have dropped everything and headed up have been
finding some fish despite the muddy water.  Most people have been
fishing bobbers/floats/indicators and egg patterns like Scrambled Eggs
and Crystal Meth.  For those that prefer to swing they have found a few
grabby fish, but until now most of the fresh fish have not been able to
head upstream.
 

Seasonal Tactics:
You
will want to be prepared for just about any situation this time of the
year as the weather can change very quickly.  Ideal conditions for us
are flows with stain that keeps the fish comfortably on the feed and
move.  The typical Indicator rig for us is either an Air Lock or
Thingamabobber float on a custom build leader tied to our 7-8wt
Scientific Anglers Anadro or Rio Trout Steelhead line.  These lines
offer you the best line control and short roll casting ease. 

Our
go to rods are 10′ single handers or a switch rod in the 6-8wt range. 
On this rig we will usually fish tandem fly rigs of two eggs, an egg and
a nymph or a Wooly Bugger and an egg. Actual patterns for this type of
fishing will include various colors of Wooly Buggers, Glo Bugs, Crystal
Meth and Scrambled Egg also in various colors, Bloody Mary nymphs,
Steelhead Candy, Chicken Littles, Steelhead and Wiggle Stones.  Do not
overlook having a box of Trout Beads and Daiichi X510s or Tiemco 105s
especially for those low clear flows.  Tippet sizes will range from
0x-3x fluorocarbon. 

The typical rig for swinging flies will
consist of a switch rod in the 10’6″-11’9″ 6-8wt range.  The new Jerry
French Pieroway Renegade rods are the big talk in the shop as they are
effortless to cast and light weight making them a dream to fish all
day.  We have a great assortment of rods in the shop to meet your
specific needs so make sure to stop by or shoot us a call.  Matching
your switch rod with the right line can be intimidating if you do not
have the proper guidance so make sure to also give us a call for
advice!  For swinging either a Skagit or Scandi line with a Rio or SA
sink tip that meets your needs will get the job done.  Add a short piece
of 12-20lb tippet and a Flow Ryder, A.I Intruder or others and you will
be ready to find those “grabby” fish fresh out of the “Big Lake.” 

As
conditions hover around or below the freezing point learning some spey
casts with mid to long belly lines keep the ice in the guides to a
minimum.  These casts can be done with any fishing tactic not just
swinging.  The most versatile lines for this are the Rio Switch and SA
Anadro lines. Keep in mind that swinging flies can be done at any flow
or condition, but a couple grabs will be a great day this time of the
year. 

Forecast:
As we go into the weekend and even
early next week look for great steelhead conditions.  There is some
usual snow with mixed rain forecasted.  With the ice jams cleared out of
the lower rivers fresh fish are able to head into the systems.  Keep an
eye on the flows and air temps as things look like they might start
getting slushy by mid-week.  If you head up north have a good supply of
split shot, egg patterns in various colors, Crystal Buggers, and Wiggle
Stones.  As long as you are prepared for some slush and icy guides you
should be able to fish somewhere next week. 



We
are continuing to book guide trips daily so make sure to contact us
with a couple of your date options! We have a few tricks up our sleeve
and are still getting folks into fish despite the tough conditions.



Click Here to check out the details and pricing on our Steelhead Alley Guide Service


Mad River Outfitters/Mad River Travel/Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 12/23/17

* Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information! These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and we currently don’t have a set schedule as to when we update. Please, just because we don’t update as often as we like, it doesn’t mean that we don’t care.

There are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only. Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don’t forget to call us if you need any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363

Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly….but we need your HELP!

Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we’ll do our best to get them up.

From all of us at Mad River Outfitters…….

OPEN Christmas Eve! Noon- 5:00 p.m.


Mad River


Conditions are low and clear.  Individuals focusing on nymphing with long drifts have been catching some fish.  Also those fishing small streamers like Wooly Buggers, Trick or Treats, Orange Blossom Specials, and other traditional minnow patterns have also been catching fish.  Most of the fishing pressure has been focused on the lower river though covering water in the upper river is a great choice.  

Seasonal Tactics: 
Nymphing is the key this time of the year.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  The Rio Indicator leaders really help you cast these rigs.  The main go to nymphing sticks are the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, TFO BVK and the new Pieroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  Tight line, High Stick, or Euro style tactics are also very productive. Grab a Euro Nymph and Euro Nymph line for that style or the Trout/Steelhead line for indicator/bobber fishing.  If you want to build your own leaders then add some Amnesia, Maxima Chameleon, Rio Two Tone Indicator tippet and a pack of tippet rings to your cart.  Don’t forget the Fluorocarbon tippet also.
Flies to have right now are nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  As we move further into winter conditions have some Phlamin Pheasants, Steelhead Candy, Formerly Known as Prince, Shop Dips, and Chicken Hawks to name a few.
Streamer fishing into the winter will consist of timing flows that are on the fall.  This window is very small, but well worth the wait.  Without the crops in the fields look for the water to take a bit longer to clear out, but that just means a few more hours for us streamer junkies.  When the conditions hover around freezing ice in the guides is just something that we deal with.  Stanley’s Ice off Paste helps along with tapping the grip of the rod to shake off the excess water.  
Rigs for streamer fishing consist of 6-8wts and a sink tip line.  Fill your fly boxes with a vast array of fly colors and designs.  Galloup’s Dungeons, Bottoms Up, and Atriculated Fatheads flies are a good start.  Also take a look at Kelly Galloup’s book Modern Streamers for Trophy Trout to help you sort things out.  As always shoot us a call if you want a guided streamer trip. We run these all winter and typically produce some of our biggest fish of the year.  
Adding some spey casts to your arsenal can help keep the ice in the guides to a minimum. This is specifically helpful when nymphing.  The 9’6″ 5wt or 10’6″ 6wt Pieroway Renegade combined with the appropriate SA Anadro or Spey Lite Scandi are the top choices.  Also bring along your tenkara rods as this is a great option for the winter.  Combine these with the 4.5 Tenkara USA Level line and a yarn indicator if needed and your set.  

Forecast: This weekend conditions are changing fast.  A huge cold front with lows into the single digits will make fishing tough.  Nymphing heavy flies and split shot will put the numbers to hand.  Also do not overlook swinging soft hackles or small streamers slow and deep.  Ice in your guides will be a big challenge.  Make sure to have some Ice off Paste and be careful if you do bust the ice out by hand as your rod tip can break very easily.  

Clearfork River
Clearfork Map

The upper river is currently low with a touch of stain in the deeper runs and holes.  Fishing has been good for those who put in the effort to get away from the typical locations.  Remember that getting access permission is a must so refresh yourself with requirements.  Below Pleasant Hill Dam is park property so there are no access issues.  Flows have been good below the dam.  Individuals have found success fishing streamers and nymphing. 

Seasonal Tactics: 
Like on the Mad, nymphing is the key this time of the year.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  The Rio Indicator leaders really help you cast these rigs.  The main go to nymphing sticks are the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, TFO BVK and the new Pieroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  Tight line, High Stick, or Euro style tactics are also very productive. Grab a Euro Nymph and Euro Nymph line for that style or the Trout/Steelhead line for indicator/bobber fishing.  If you want to build your own leaders then add some Amnesia, Maxima Chameleon, Rio Two Tone Indicator tippet and a pack of tippet rings to your cart. Don’t forget the Fluorocarbon tippet also.

Flies to have right now are nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guide’s Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  As we move further into winter conditions have some Phlamin Pheasants, Steelhead Candy, Formally Known as Prince, Shop Dips, and Chicken Hawks to name a few.

Streamer fishing into the winter will consist of timing flows that are on the fall.  This window is very small, but well worth the wait.  Without the crops in the fields look for the water to take a bit longer to clear out, but that just means a few more hours for us streamer junkies.  When the conditions hover around freezing ice in the guides is just something that we deal with.  Stanley’s Ice off Paste helps along with tapping the grip of the rod to shake off the excess water.  


Rigs for streamer fishing consist of 6-8wts and a sink tip line.  We have some of the new Kelly Galloup’s AirFlo lines in the shop that will be perfect for this type of fishing.  These are what we have been waiting for a long time!  Fill your fly boxes with a vast array of fly colors and designs. Galloup’s Dungeons, Bottoms Up, and Atriculated Fatheads flies are a good start.  Also take a look at Kelly Galloup’s book Modern Streamers for Trophy Trout to help you sort things out.  As always shoot us a call if you want a guided streamer trip.  We run these all winter and typically produce some of our biggest fish of the year.  


Adding some spey casts to your arsenal can help keep the ice in the guides to a minimum. This is specifically helpful when nymphing.  The 9’6″ 5wt or 10’6″ 6wt Pieroway Renegade combined with the appropriate SA Anadro or Spey Lite Scandi are the top choices.  Also bring along your tenkara rods as this is a great option for the winter.  Combine these with the 4.5 Tenkara USA Level line and a yarn indicator if needed and your set.  

Forecast: 
This coming week is going to be tough.  The rain has the water high and muddy.  Levels will settle down into early week just in time for the cold temps.  Daily and night temps in combination with dropping water levels will start to slush up the majority of the upper.  Fishing in the lower river will continue to be good as long as you prepare for the cold conditions.  Nymphing in both areas will be your best bet.



Clear Creek

Clear Creek Map

The creek continued to fish well last week despite the very low and crystal clear conditions.  Nymphing small caddis and mayfly imitations have been the staple.  Midge activity has been good with the warmer weather, but fish looking up for dries have been very few.  Small streamer continues to bring a few flashes and follows.  With the clear water the catch rate on streamers has been low.  
Seasonal Tactics:
Rigs for nymphing will consist of 3-5wt 9-10′ + rods.  These rods provide great control, feel, and reach.  Although this creek is not very big a long rod allows for the best presentation and longer drifts.  Use a Rio Indicator Leader when float/bobber/indicator fishing or a Rio Euro Nymph leader when using Tightline tactics.  Streamer rods for this situation will be fast 4wts or 5-6wts. An aggressive Scientific Anglers MPX, Wulff Ambush or Rio Grand a 9′ leader and a weighted streamer will set you on the right path.  As for Tenkara we really like the TFO Cutthroat, Tenkara USA Rhodo, Amago or Iwana for this creek.  Match those rods with either the Level Line 3.5/2.5 or the Tapered Nylon leader by Tenkara USA and you are ready to go.  If you want to use a small yarn indicator then bump your line up to the 4.5 Level Line or a Furled Mono that matches the rod length or slightly longer.  

Flies to have going into winter will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guide’s Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  Streamer fishing will require Mini Dungeons, Barely Legals, Wooly Buggers, Autumn Splendor, Clousers, Trick or Treats, Orange Blossoms, Cougars, Wooly Sculpins, Cactus Wooly, and Near Nuff Sculpin to name a few. 


Forecast:  
The stream is currently muddy and high.  Look for it to take into early next week to settle down. By later in the week flows will be back down to clear and low.  Ice will start to be an issue, but there will be open water if you keep on the move.




Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps

There was a small window last week with some great fishing for those who could drop everything and head to the rivers.  The ice has all pushed out into the main lake and melted off. Also the snow pack has done the same causing the rivers to be elevated and muddy.  The second shot of rain elevated the rivers even more.  Swinging and indicator/bobber fishing eggs and brightly colored flies put a few fish in the net before this last rain.

Seasonal Tactics:
You will want to be prepared for just about any situation this time of the year as the weather can change very quickly.  Ideal conditions for us are flows with stain that keeps the fish comfortably on the feed and move.  The typical Indicator rig for us is either an Air Lock or Thingamabobber float on a custom build leader tied to our 7-8wt Scientific Anglers Anadro or Rio Trout Steelhead line.  These lines offer you the best line control and short roll casting ease.  


Our go to rods are 10′ single handers or a switch rod in the 6-8wt range.  On this rig we will usually fish tandem fly rigs of two eggs, an egg and a nymph or a Wooly Bugger and an egg. Actual patterns for this type of fishing will include various colors of Wooly Buggers, Glo Bugs, Crystal Meth and Scrambled Egg also in various colors, Bloody Mary nymphs, Steelhead Candy, Chicken Littles, Steelhead and Wiggle Stones.  Do not overlook having a box of Trout Beads and Daiichi X510s or Tiemco 105s especially for those low clear flows.  Tippet sizes will range from 0x-3x fluorocarbon.  


The typical rig for swinging flies will consist of a switch rod in the 10’6″-11’9″ 6-8wt range.  The new Jerry French Pieroway Renegade rods are the big talk in the shop as they are effortless to cast and light weight making them a dream to fish all day.  We have a great assortment of rods in the shop to meet your specific needs so make sure to stop by or shoot us a call.  Matching your switch rod with the right line can be intimidating if you do not have the proper guidance so make sure to also give us a call for advice!  For swinging either a Skagit or Scandi line with a  Rio or SA sink tip that meets your needs will get the job done.  Add a short piece of 12-20lb tippet and a Flow Ryder, A.I Intruder or others and you will be ready to find those “grabby” fish fresh out of the “Big Lake.”  

As conditions hover around or below the freezing point learning some spey casts with mid to long belly lines keep the ice in the guides to a minimum.  These casts can be done with any fishing tactic not just swinging.  The most versatile lines for this are the Rio Switch and SA Anadro lines. Keep in mind that swinging flies can be done at any flow or condition, but a couple grabs will be a great day this time of the year.  

Forecast:
High water falling to slushy conditions will be the main theme of next week.  The good thing about the rain is that it will keep the tribs from locking back up as fast.  Look for a small window Tuesday – Thursday with fair conditions.  Later in the week will be tough as most of the tribs will start to lock up with ice.  Make sure to shoot us a call if you are heading up as conditions are going to be changing very quickly.  Lets hope for another warm up and some rain to keep the cycle going so we can stay on the water. 


We are continuing to book guide trips daily so make sure to contact us with a couple of your date options! We have a few tricks up our sleeve and are still getting folks into fish despite the tough conditions.



Click Here to check out the details and pricing on our Steelhead Alley Guide Service

Mad River Outfitters/Mad River Travel/Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214
614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 12/15/17

* Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information! These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and we currently don’t have a set schedule as to when we update. Please, just because we don’t update as often as we like, it doesn’t mean that we don’t care.

There are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only. Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don’t forget to call us if you need any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363

Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly….but we need your HELP!

Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we’ll do our best to get them up.

Holiday Shopping

Plenty of time for Holiday Shopping at www.madriveroutfitters.com

* FREE Shipping on orders over $25.00

* 1-4 Day Delivery in the U.S.

* In-Store Pick-Up for our local friends

* “Same Day” order processing

* Shop by Category, Department or Brand!

* Order Notes- we communicate on each order

* Website backed-up by our customer service department- we are always here to help during business hours- 888-451-0363

* Price Match Guarantee- we typically can’t be undersold

* Competitor’s Coupons and Promotions always welcome!

*  Entire Store Inventory  on our website! Want to know if an item is in stock….our site will tell you!!!

We’ll get it there in time!

 
  
We have been getting alot of calls and e-mails asking if we can deliver by Christmas.

The answer is….YES……

Order safely up to December 18th or 19th for standard ground shipping and up to December 22nd for 2-day shipping.

We process most orders the day they are received and they are on the truck and headed to you!



MRO Gift Guide
We have put together a Gift Guide for those who are looking for some great ideas!

Great ideas for Men!

Great ideas for Women!

Great ideas for Anglers!  


Click Here to view our Gift Guide



Mad River Outfitters Gift Cards make great Gifts and can of course be used in the shop or online!

We can also e-mail to you so you don’t have to worry about shipping! Can be e-mailed up to 5:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve!

Click Here to get an MRO Gift Card!

Warmwater


With the cold temps we have not been out fishing around town.  Water levels are starting to settle providing the hardcore fisherman some good opportunities for Saugeye and a few Hybrid Stripers.
    
Seasonal Tactics: 
Make sure to have some of Loon’s Stanley’s Ice Off Paste!  Focusing on Saugeye you will need sink tips fly lines with shad patterns, but most of your Smallmouth flies will do the trick.  The main objective here is to focus on patterns that give off plenty of vibration and have a lazy jigging motion.  Focus on hard bottom flats close to deep water during low light periods. This goes for both lakes and streams.  6-8wts with a sinking line like the Scientific Anglers Sonar series or Rio Streamer tip are your rigs of choice.  Flies will include Clousers, Mojo Minnows, Half and Halfs, Barely Legals, Mini and regular Dungeons, Meat Whistles, Whitlock’s Deep Shad, Articulated Fat Head Minnow, Zoo Cougar, and other similar flies that push later and give off vibration.  If you tie your own flies make sure to add rattles, rubber legs, and Bucktail to your own versions of above.  

For the Crappie bite this time of the year (and when everything is not iced up) we like to borrow some tactics from the conventional fishing side the “Float n Fly Rig.”  Fishing a float/bobber/indicator (whatever you want to call it) with a heavy minnow pattern like a Clouser and trail it with a smaller lightly weighted fly like a Crappie Special, Little Devil, or Wooly Worm is a great setup.  Target structure on drop offs either from shore or by boat.  These areas in the local reservoirs generally mean the dam faces and secondary or long points in the main lake.  

Do not forget that Pike and Musky fishing continues throughout the winter as long as conditions remain in our favor.  Shoot us a call if you are looking to book a trip!

Forecast:
Next week looks like things will warm up slightly.  Early on in the week with a touch of rain and above freezing temps look for the local waters to have a little stain from runoff as the top layers of soil thaw out.  Saugeye fishing will continue to be good along with Crappies if the ice melts off the local still waters.  


Mad River


Fishing has continued to be great despite the cold temps.  Icy guides and lines are just a part of the game this time of the year though.  Nymphing and swinging soft hackles deep have been the tickets.  Those fishing small streamers have also been picking up a fish or two, but with the air temps it has been a challenge.  Most individuals are focusing on the mid to lower river.  

We have some of the new Kelly Galloup’s AirFlo lines in the shop!  These are what we have been waiting for a long time!  

Seasonal Tactics: 
Nymphing is the key this time of the year.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  The Rio Indicator leaders really help you cast these rigs.  The main go to nymphing sticks are the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, TFO BVK and the new Pieroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  Tight line, High Stick, or Euro style tactics are also very productive. Grab a Euro Nymph and Euro Nymph line for that style or the Trout/Steelhead line for indicator/bobber fishing.  If you want to build your own leaders then add some Amnesia, Maxima Chameleon, Rio Two Tone Indicator tippet and a pack of tippet rings to your cart.  Don’t forget the Fluorocarbon tippet also.
Flies to have right now are nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  As we move further into winter conditions have some Phlamin Pheasants, Steelhead Candy, Formerly Known as Prince, Shop Dips, and Chicken Hawks to name a few.
Streamer fishing into the winter will consist of timing flows that are on the fall.  This window is very small, but well worth the wait.  Without the crops in the fields look for the water to take a bit longer to clear out, but that just means a few more hours for us streamer junkies.  When the conditions hover around freezing ice in the guides is just something that we deal with.  Stanley’s Ice off Paste helps along with tapping the grip of the rod to shake off the excess water.  
Rigs for streamer fishing consist of 6-8wts and a sink tip line.  Fill your fly boxes with a vast array of fly colors and designs.  Galloup’s Dungeons, Bottoms Up, and Atriculated Fatheads flies are a good start.  Also take a look at Kelly Galloup’s book Modern Streamers for Trophy Trout to help you sort things out.  As always shoot us a call if you want a guided streamer trip. We run these all winter and typically produce some of our biggest fish of the year.  
Adding some spey casts to your arsenal can help keep the ice in the guides to a minimum. This is specifically helpful when nymphing.  The 9’6″ 5wt or 10’6″ 6wt Pieroway Renegade combined with the appropriate SA Anadro or Spey Lite Scandi are the top choices.  Also bring along your tenkara rods as this is a great option for the winter.  Combine these with the 4.5 Tenkara USA Level line and a yarn indicator if needed and your set.  
Forecast:  
Looking into this coming week things are going to be much easier.  The air temps will be above freezing pushing 50.  There is a slight bit of rain predicted that will only color up the water for a few hours.  This stain in the water will give us a small window to fish a few streamers.  Do not look for the flows to raise though.  Continue to fish your small streamers like Barely Legals, Sumps, Peanuts, Cactus Woolys, Cougars, and the like all on a sink tip lines.  Nymphing will continue to be your numbers choice though.  For things to get really good we need some significant rain really bad!  Nothing is in the forecast that will bring up the levels, but keep your fingers crossed! 


Clearfork River
Clearfork Map

The upper river is very low, slushy, and locking up in a few places.  With these conditions few individuals have been out fishing.  The lower river below Pleasant Hill Dam has been the most consistent water in the state.  Those that have made it up that way have found good flows with some shelf ice along the banks.  Most have been fishing tandem nymph rigs with a Double Stone trailed by a caddis nymph.   Ice in the guides has been a problem so those limiting the amount of line stripped through the guides have been the most successful.  Streamer fishing below the dam has also been a good choice, but with the air temps and icy guides it has been a challenge.

Seasonal Tactics: 
Like on the Mad, nymphing is the key this time of the year.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  The Rio Indicator leaders really help you cast these rigs.  The main go to nymphing sticks are the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, TFO BVK and the new Pieroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  Tight line, High Stick, or Euro style tactics are also very productive. Grab a Euro Nymph and Euro Nymph line for that style or the Trout/Steelhead line for indicator/bobber fishing.  If you want to build your own leaders then add some Amnesia, Maxima Chameleon, Rio Two Tone Indicator tippet and a pack of tippet rings to your cart. Don’t forget the Fluorocarbon tippet also.

Flies to have right now are nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guide’s Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  As we move further into winter conditions have some Phlamin Pheasants, Steelhead Candy, Formally Known as Prince, Shop Dips, and Chicken Hawks to name a few.

Streamer fishing into the winter will consist of timing flows that are on the fall.  This window is very small, but well worth the wait.  Without the crops in the fields look for the water to take a bit longer to clear out, but that just means a few more hours for us streamer junkies.  When the conditions hover around freezing ice in the guides is just something that we deal with.  Stanley’s Ice off Paste helps along with tapping the grip of the rod to shake off the excess water.  

Rigs for streamer fishing consist of 6-8wts and a sink tip line.  We have some of the new Kelly Galloup’s AirFlo lines in the shop that will be perfect for this type of fishing.  These are what we have been waiting for a long time!  Fill your fly boxes with a vast array of fly colors and designs. Galloup’s Dungeons, Bottoms Up, and Atriculated Fatheads flies are a good start.  Also take a look at Kelly Galloup’s book Modern Streamers for Trophy Trout to help you sort things out.  As always shoot us a call if you want a guided streamer trip.  We run these all winter and typically produce some of our biggest fish of the year.  


Adding some spey casts to your arsenal can help keep the ice in the guides to a minimum. This is specifically helpful when nymphing.  The 9’6″ 5wt or 10’6″ 6wt Pieroway Renegade combined with the appropriate SA Anadro or Spey Lite Scandi are the top choices.  Also bring along your tenkara rods as this is a great option for the winter.  Combine these with the 4.5 Tenkara USA Level line and a yarn indicator if needed and your set.  

Forecast:  
We are finally going to get some above freezing air temps.  Look for both sections of the river to be fishing well next week.  The upper will continue to be very low.  Long casts and drifts will be the top technique.  Euro nymphing tactics will put numbers to hand as well as slowly swinging small soft hackles.  Make sure to have your winter dry fly box handy as we can see some midge activity.  The lower river will continue to produce fish both nymphing and stripping streamers.  With the flows in the upper river being low look for most people to be heading to the Covered Bridge area below the dam.  We need some rain bad, but we will at least have decent conditions going into Christmas weekend. 



Clear Creek

Clear Creek Map

Fishing has been tough as the flows are low and the water is Gin clear.  Combine that with slushy water and most people have just been heading to the Mad River.  For those that have found some good water nymphing continues to be the best bet.  A small bead head fly like the Phlamin’ Pheasant, Psycho Prince, Copper John, and Trouphy Nymphs have produced the most success.  Trail these with an unweighted Hares Ear, Prince, or wet fly and your set. Tenkara setups are also a great choice for this creek.

With these conditions nymphing has been the most productive.  Yarn indicators and small bead heads have produces the best results.  Tenkara rods are a great choice for Clear Creek also.  For those willing to cover water and adjust tactics they have been rewarded with fish.  These fish are small, but the scenery is what usually brings people to the area.  

Seasonal Tactics:
Rigs for nymphing will consist of 3-5wt 9-10′ + rods.  These rods provide great control, feel, and reach.  Although this creek is not very big a long rod allows for the best presentation and longer drifts.  Use a Rio Indicator Leader when float/bobber/indicator fishing or a Rio Euro Nymph leader when using Tightline tactics.  Streamer rods for this situation will be fast 4wts or 5-6wts. An aggressive Scientific Anglers MPX, Wulff Ambush or Rio Grand a 9′ leader and a weighted streamer will set you on the right path.  As for Tenkara we really like the TFO Cutthroat, Tenkara USA Rhodo, Amago or Iwana for this creek.  Match those rods with either the Level Line 3.5/2.5 or the Tapered Nylon leader by Tenkara USA and you are ready to go.  If you want to use a small yarn indicator then bump your line up to the 4.5 Level Line or a Furled Mono that matches the rod length or slightly longer.  

Flies to have going into winter will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guide’s Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  Streamer fishing will require Mini Dungeons, Barely Legals, Wooly Buggers, Autumn Splendor, Clousers, Trick or Treats, Orange Blossoms, Cougars, Wooly Sculpins, Cactus Wooly, and Near Nuff Sculpin to name a few. 


Forecast:  
Looking ahead the warm up will be very welcomed.  Look for fish to be well distributed throughout the park.  Nymphing with your typical flies will be a good choice.  Make sure to have small indicators like the New Zealand yarn or the Loon Tip Toppers as the water is very clear. Make sure to have your winter dry fly box handy also as the midge fishing can be very good. We need some water bad.  So let’s hope for some rain or snow runoff soon.




Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps

Good friend and great customer John Myers started taking classes with us and buying gear this Summer. This was his 1st “official” fish on a fly rod…..on a MRO Float Trip with Josh McQueen last week.

ICE!  ICE!  ICE!  There is some open water, but it is very limited and only found in the fastest runs.  Most people have been heading to the Clear Fork, Mad River, or tying flies.  Those willing to cover miles of water and spend a lot of time in the car have found a FEW fish.  

Seasonal Tactics:
You will want to be prepared for just about any situation this time of the year as the weather can change very quickly.  Ideal conditions for us are flows with stain that keeps the fish comfortably on the feed and move.  The typical Indicator rig for us is either an Air Lock or Thingamabobber float on a custom build leader tied to our 7-8wt Scientific Anglers Anadro or Rio Trout Steelhead line.  These lines offer you the best line control and short roll casting ease.  

Our go to rods are 10′ single handers or a switch rod in the 6-8wt range.  On this rig we will usually fish tandem fly rigs of two eggs, an egg and a nymph or a Wooly Bugger and an egg. Actual patterns for this type of fishing will include various colors of Wooly Buggers, Glo Bugs, Crystal Meth and Scrambled Egg also in various colors, Bloody Mary nymphs, Steelhead Candy, Chicken Littles, Steelhead and Wiggle Stones.  Do not overlook having a box of Trout Beads and Daiichi X510s or Tiemco 105s especially for those low clear flows.  Tippet sizes will range from 0x-3x fluorocarbon.  

The typical rig for swinging flies will consist of a switch rod in the 10’6″-11’9″ 6-8wt range.  The new Jerry French Pieroway Renegade rods are the big talk in the shop as they are effortless to cast and light weight making them a dream to fish all day.  We have a great assortment of rods in the shop to meet your specific needs so make sure to stop by or shoot us a call.  Matching your switch rod with the right line can be intimidating if you do not have the proper guidance so make sure to also give us a call for advice!  For swinging either a Skagit or Scandi line with a  Rio or SA sink tip that meets your needs will get the job done.  Add a short piece of 12-20lb tippet and a Flow Ryder, A.I Intruder or others and you will be ready to find those “grabby” fish fresh out of the “Big Lake.”  

As conditions hover around or below the freezing point learning some spey casts with mid to long belly lines keep the ice in the guides to a minimum.  These casts can be done with any fishing tactic not just swinging.  The most versatile lines for this are the Rio Switch and SA Anadro lines. Keep in mind that swinging flies can be done at any flow or condition, but a couple grabs will be a great day this time of the year.  

Forecast:
Going into next week we will see warmer temps and more open water.  Once the tribs open up, look for fish to be active and feeding.  Nymph rigs will put numbers in the net, but do not overlook your switch rod and swinging.  It only takes a few degree temperature change to make these fish fire up get grabby.  The flows will continue to be low, but will spike slightly due to runoff and the slight chance of rain.  Make sure to be prepared for any water condition as things change very quickly up there this time of the year.  


Good friend and great customer Erik Arce on a float trip with Josh last weekend. Yet another Midwest Fly Fishing School Alumni. Love to see our students and their successes.


We are continuing to book guide trips daily so make sure to contact us with a couple of your date options! We have a few tricks up our sleeve and are still getting folks into fish despite the tough conditions.



Click Here to check out the details and pricing on our Steelhead Alley Guide Service

Mad River Outfitters/Mad River Travel/Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214
614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 12/4/17

* Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information! These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and we currently don’t have a set schedule as to when we update. Please, just because we don’t update as often as we like, it doesn’t mean that we don’t care.

There are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only. Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don’t forget to call us if you need any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363

Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly….but we need your HELP!

Send any and all pics and reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we’ll do our best to get them up.

Big Night Coming Up!
Join Clothing and Gift Manager Linda Farner on Tuesday night!

Click Here for the details!



Subscribe to our YouTube Channel?
The boys…and girls….have been hard at work the past month or so filming a new season of YouTube videos and we will begin posting them to the channel this week. 

We will be posting some Product Reviews, Fly Fishing and Fly Tying Tutorials as well as some full Fly Tying Videos of some of our favorite patterns.

Have an idea for a tutorial or a topic that you’d like to see us do or cover? Have a question on something that we could film the answer for?

Feel free to give us an idea and we’ll see if we can’t get your question/topic answered via video!

[email protected]


Click Here to check out our YouTube Channel


2018 1-Day and 2-Day Fly Fishing Schools Announced!



Click Here  to check out the “School Schedule” for 2018


Anybody up for some Bonefishing?

Join MRO host Pat Kelly at the Andros Island Bonefish Club in the Bahamas

February 17th- 24th, 2018

You get to the island and we’ll do the rest!!!

Click Here  for the details and pricing

Warmwater


Everything local has remained high but dropping all week.  These streams are currently slightly stained or clear depending on which water way you are fishing.  Saugeye fishing continues to be the main species.  The ODNR stocks them in great numbers in reservoirs throughout the state.  These fish also find home in many of the local streams.  Sink tips fly lines with shad patterns is the usual routine, but most of your Smallmouth flies will do the trick.  The main objective here is to focus on patterns that give off plenty of vibration and have a lazy jigging motion.  Focus on hard bottom flats close to deep water during low light periods. This goes for both lakes and streams.  6-8wts with a sinking line like the Scientific Anglers Sonar series or Rio Streamer tip are your rigs of choice.  Flies will include Clousers, Mojo Minnows, Half and Halfs, Barely Legals, Mini and regular Dungeons, Meat Whistles, Whitlock’s Deep Shad, Articulated Fat Head Minnow, Zoo Cougar, and other similar flies that push later and give off vibration.  If you tie your own flies make sure to add rattles, rubber legs, and Bucktail to your own versions of above.  

Here are a few pointers that will help you extend your local winter fishing options here locally.  With the water temps in the low 40’s your best bet will be to target Crappies and Panfish.  This time of the year we like to borrow some tactics from the conventional fishing side the “Float n Fly Rig.”  Fishing a float/bobber/indicator (whatever you want to call it) with a heavy minnow pattern like a Clouser and trail it with a smaller lightly weighted fly like a Crappie Special, Little Devil, or Wooly Worm is a great setup.  Target structure on drop offs either from shore or by boat.  

Although Pike get a slight backseat during Steelhead season there will continue to be opportunities but the forecast will put a damper on things.  Also Pat has been kicking off his Musky season with some great success.  If you are interested in booking any of these trips make sure to call the shop with a few dates as there are a few dates still available this year.  

Forecast: Early week will be your best bet as there is a severe cold front heading our way. There will be some rain followed by near freezing high temps.  This will probably “close the door” for a few day if not totally for fly gear.  If you have some time off stop by the shop and pick up some Loon’s Stanley Ice Off Paste and we will talk about options. 


Mad River


Fishing continues to be good.  As usual water conditions have been very clear.  Although the streamer fishing has been good most have been focusing on nymphing tactics.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  The Rio Indicator leaders really help you cast these rigs.  The main go to nymphing sticks are the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, TFO BVK and the new Pieroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  Tight line, High Stick, or Euro style tactics are also very productive. Grab a Rio Euro Nymph or Indicator leader, Euro Nymph line for that style or the Trout/Steelhead line for indicator/bobber fishing.  If you want to build your own leaders then add some Amnesia, Maxima Chameleon, Rio Two Tone Indicator tippet and a pack of tippet rings to your cart.  Don’t forget the Fluorocarbon tippet also.

Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  As we move into winter conditions have some Phlamin Pheasants, Steelhead Candy, Formerly Known as Prince, Shop Dips, and Chicken Hawks to name a few.

Streamer fishing into the winter will consist of timing flows that are on the fall.  This window is very small, but well worth the wait.  These big pushes of water help clear out the remaining leaves and flush out the dying off vegetation.  Without the crops in the fields look for the water to take a bit longer to clear out, but that just means a few more hours for us streamer junkies.  When the conditions hover around freezing ice in the guides is just something that we deal with.  Stanley’s Ice off Paste helps along with tapping the grip of the rod to shake off the excess water.  

Rigs for streamer fishing consist of 6-8wts and Rio Streamer tip line.  Fill your fly boxes with a vast array of fly colors and designs.  Galloup’s Dungeons, Bottoms Up, and Atriculated Fatheads flies are a good start.  Also take a look at Kelly Galloup’s book Modern Streamers for Trophy Trout to help you sort things out.  As always shoot us a call if you want a guided streamer trip.  We run these all winter and typically produce some of our biggest fish of the year.  

Adding some spey casts to your arsenal can help keep the ice in the guides to a minimum.  This is specifically helpful when nymphing.  Also bring along your tenkara rods as this is a great option for the winter.    

Forecast:  The rain might mess things up for a few hours, but will open the door for some great streamer water midweek.  After that look for the flows to drop down and we will return to nymphing tactics.  There is a BIG cold front heading in and it will start to look like winter.  Grad some Ice off Paste and your Tenkara Rod to keep the ice under control.

Good friend and great customer Bob Wing with a fish taken on a Galloup’s Mini-Dungeon last Sunday on a float trip with MRO Guide Josh McQueen. We turned him onto that fly last week and then he sent us these pics and note from yesterday:

“That fly is KILLER.Thanks for turning me onto it”- Bob Wing

Galloup’s Mini-Dungeon- our #1 selling fly- available in 5 colors- Click Here



Clearfork River

Clearfork Map

Like on the Mad, fishing has been good the past week.  Most people have been nymphing and having good success.   For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  The Rio Indicator leaders really help you cast these rigs.  The main go to nymphing sticks are the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, TFO BVK and the new Pieroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  Grab a Rio Euro Nymph or Indicator leader, Euro Nymph line for that style or the Trout/Steelhead line for indicator/bobber fishing.  If you want to build your own leaders then add some Amnesia, Maxima Chameleon, Rio Two Tone Indicator tippet and a pack of tippet rings to your cart.  Don’t forget the Fluorocarbon tippet also.


Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  This time of the year do not overlook adding a Conehead Muddler, Autumn Splinder, or Clouser as a heavy “nymph” also.  As we move into winter conditions have some Phlamin Pheasants, Steelhead Candy, Formally Known as Prince, Shop Dips, and Chicken Hawks to name a few.


Streamer fishing into the winter will consist of timing flows that are on the fall.  The Clear Fork offers some unique opportunities with the more Spring Creek feel above the dam and a Tailwater below.  This provides us with extended streamer water once the upper settles as the lower river usually continues to be high as they stabilize the lake levels.   Also without the crops in the fields look for the water to take a bit longer to clear out.  Rigs for streamer fishing consist of 6-8wts and Rio Streamer tip line.  Fill your fly boxes with a vast array of fly colors and designs like Dungeons, Bottoms Up, and Articulated Fatheads.  Also take a look at Kelly Galloup’s book Modern Streamers for Trophy Trout to help you sort things out.  As always shoot us a call if you want a guided streamer trip.  


Forecast:  The rain might mess things up for a few hours, but will open the door for some great streamer water midweek.  After that look for the flows to drop down and we will return to nymphing tactics.  There is a BIG cold front heading in and it will start to look like winter.  Grad some Ice off Paste and your Tenkara Rod to keep the ice under control.



Clear Creek

Clear Creek Map

Fishing has continued to be great this past week.  Most of the stocked fish are now well dispersed and starting to act a little more like wild trout.  Like the other trout streams nymphing will be the key for numbers.  If you prefer the streamer game then Clear Creek offers great small streamer fishing throughout the winter.  Also do not overlook your Tenkara Rods as either a backup or main tactic.  

Rigs for nymphing will consist of 3-5wt 9-10′ + rods.  These rods provide great control, feel, and reach.  Although this creek is not very big a long rod allows for the best presentation and longer drifts.  Use a Rio Indicator Leader when float/bobber/indicator fishing or a Rio Euro Nymph leader when using Tightline tactics.  Streamer rods for this situation will be fast 4wts or 5-6wts.  An aggressive Scientific Anglers MPX or Rio Grand a 9′ leader and a weighted streamer will set you on the right path.  As for Tenkara we really like the TFO Cutthroat, Tenkara USA Rhodo, Amago or Iwana for this creek.  Match those rods with either the Level Line 3.5/2.5 or the Tapered Nylon leader by Tenkara USA and you are ready to go.  

Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  Streamer fishing will require Mini Dungeons, Barely Legals, Wooly Buggers, Autumn Splendor, Clousers, Trick or Treats, Orange Blossoms, Cougars, Wooly Sculpins, Cactus Wooly, and Near Nuff Sculpin to name a few. 

Forecast:  Early this week will be tough because of the rain.  There is a BIG cold front that will bring in winter conditions.  Once the conditions stable nymphing will be your best bet, but swinging a small streamer can produce a few fish. 




Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps

Midwest Fly Fishing School Alumn Roberto Noden and his father were out with Josh on Saturday. You can also find a short video of Roberto with Josh on Facebook and Instagram from Saturday.
Conditions have been very tough this past week.  Little to no rain has caused the tribs to be low and clear. With the high angling pressure and low water successful fisherman were forced to cover lots of water.  There have been fish being caught for those putting in the time.  Indicator fishing has produced the most success, but those that have been stripping streamers and swinging at the right times were not left out.  

You will want to be prepared for just about any situation this time of the year as the weather can change very quickly.  Ideal conditions for us are flows with stain that keeps the fish comfortably on the feed and move.  The typical Indicator rig for us is either an Air Lock or Thingamabobber float on a custom build leader tied to our 7-8wt Scientific Anglers Anadro or Rio Trout Steelhead line.  These lines offer you the best line control and short roll casting ease.  

Our go to rods are 10′ single handers or a switch rod in the 6-8wt range.  On this rig we will usually fish tandem fly rigs of two eggs, an egg and a nymph or a Wooly Bugger and an egg. Actual patterns for this type of fishing will include various colors of Wooly Buggers, Glo Bugs, Crystal Meth and Scrambled Egg also in various colors, Bloody Mary nymphs, Steelhead Candy, Chicken Littles, Steelhead and Wiggle Stones.  Tippet sizes will range from 0x-3x fluorocarbon.  

The typical rig for swinging flies will consist of a switch rod in the 10’6″-11’9″ 6-8wt range.  The new Jerry French Pieroway Renegade rods are the big talk in the shop as they are effortless to cast and light weight making them a dream to fish all day.  We have a great assortment of rods in the shop to meet your specific needs so make sure to stop by or shoot us a call.  Matching your switch rod with the right line can be intimidating if you do not have the proper guidance so make sure to give us a call!  For swinging flies either a Skagit or Scandi line with a sink tip that meets your needs will get the job done.  Add a short piece of 12-20lb tippet and a Flow Ryder, A.I Intruder or others and you will be ready to find those “grabby” fish fresh out of the “Big Lake.”  

As conditions hover around or below the freezing point learning some spey casts with mid to long belly lines keep the ice in the guides to a minimum.  These casts can be done with any fishing tactic not just swinging.  Keep in mind that swinging flies can be done at any flow or condition, but a couple grabs will be a great day this time of the year.  

Forecast:  The rain early in the week will be a welcomed sight.  As usual this time of the year rain brings a cold front though.  Look for temps at or below freezing for the next couple weeks.  Without ice on Lake Erie also look for pop up snow showers.  Mid to late week should produce good fishing conditions as long as you are prepared for the cold.  No rush to get out at first light though.  Keep an eye on your water temps knowing that a change of 2-3 degrees can turn on the fish.  Stanley’s Ice Off Paste, Rio’s Switch or Trout Steelhead line, SA’s Anadro will be your go to choices.  


Click Here to check out the details and pricing on our Steelhead Alley Guide Service

Mad River Outfitters/Mad River Travel/Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214
614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 11/18/17

* Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information! These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and we currently don’t have a set schedule as to when we update. Please, just because we don’t update as often as we like, it doesn’t mean that we don’t care.

There are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only. Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don’t forget to call us if you need any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363

Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly….but we need your HELP!

Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we’ll do our best to get them up.

Big Holiday Week Coming Up!

We are of course looking forward to Thursday and having a day off…and spending some time with friends and family…..but….

Early Friday our lives change for a month!!! We’ll be in touch next week with some details on the “Goings-On” but here’s some highlights. Stay tuned….it’s going to be a busy season.

* Black Friday- OPEN at 8:00 a.m. and some CRAZY specials going on until 10:00 a.m. and great deals to be had all day. Again, stay tuned for some details (although we can’t publish what’s going to happen between 8 and 10 a.m.).

* OPEN Sundays from Thanksgiving to Christmas- Noon- 5:00 p.m.- look for Sunday Specials throughout the season.

* “Cyber Monday”- online specials galore.

* Tuesday, December 5th is “Ladies Night”. Join MRO Softgoods Manager Linda Farner for wine, cheese, snacks, fun and savings!!! Great night for the gals to shop. Details to come.


We hope that you will help support an independent, small pro-shop like ourselves this Holiday Season! We appreciate your business.



Warmwater


Everything local has remained high all week.  The rain is only going to continue to mess up the streams.  Fishing local during those small windows the conditions have been right mostly consists of targeting Saugeye.  This fish is a cross between a Sauger and a Walleye.  The ODNR stocks them in great numbers in reservoirs throughout the state.  These fish also find home in many of the local streams.  Sink tips fly lines with shad patterns is the usual routine, but most of your Smallmouth flies will do the trick.  The main objective here is to focus on patterns that give off plenty of vibration and have a lazy jigging motion.  Focus on hard bottom flats close to deep water during low light periods. This goes for both lakes and streams.  6-8wts with a sinking line like the Scientific Anglers Sonar series or Rio Streamer tip are your rigs of choice.  Flies will include Clousers, Mojo Minnows, Half and Halfs, Barely Legals, Mini and regular Dungeons, Meat Whistles, Whitlock’s Deep Shad, Articulated Fat Head Minnow, Zoo Cougar, and other similar flies that push later and give off vibration.  If you tie your own flies make sure to add rattles, rubber legs, and Bucktail to your own versions of above.  

Here are a few pointers from the last report that will also help you extend your fishing season here locally.  With the water temps in the 40’s though your best bet will be to target Crappies and Panfish.  This time of the year we like to borrow some tactics from the conventional fishing side the “Float n Fly Rig.”  Fishing a float/bobber/indicator (whatever you want to call it) with a heavy minnow pattern like a Clouser and trail it with a smaller lightly weighted fly like a Crappie Special, Little Devil, or Wooly Worm is a great setup.  Target structure on drop offs either from shore or by boat.  

Although Pike get a slight backseat during Steelhead season there will continue to be great fishing as long as the weather does not get too crazy.  Also Pat has been kicking off his Musky season with some great success.  If you are interested in booking any of these trips make sure to call the shop with a few dates as there are a few dates still available this year.  

Tom Blackerby on a guide trip earlier this week with MRO’s Josh McQueen

Forecast: The rain this weekend will put a damper on things into next week.  This time of the year the weather patterns are very unstable and thing change almost hourly.  If thing continue as planned look for the local streams to shape up mid to late week.  


Mad River


Fishing continues to be great this week.  The fish are finishing up their spawn and starting to put the feed on.  With the few days of overcast the streamer fishing has been better than normal.  The flows are still slightly higher than normal, but with usual clear conditions.  Although the streamer fishing has been good most have been focusing on nymphing tactics.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  The Rio Indicator leaders really help you cast these rigs.  The main go to nymphing sticks are the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, TFO BVK and the new Pieroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  Tight line, High Stick, or Euro style tactics are also very productive. Grab a Rio Euro Nymph or Indicator leader and line for the most productive rig for this type of fishing.  If you want to build your own then add some Amnesia, Maxima Chameleon, Rio Two Tone Indicator tippet and a pack of tippet rings to your cart.  Don’t forget the Fluorocarbon tippet also.  

Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  During the “leaf hatch” we typically like to focus on bright, attractor style nymphs as well.

Streamer fishing into the winter will consist of timing conditions that are on the fall.  This window is very small, but well worth the wait.  These big pushes of water help clear out the remaining leaves and flush out the dying off vegetation.  Without the crops in the fields look for the water to take a slight bit longer to clear out, but that just means a few more hours for us streamer junkies.  Rigs for streamer fishing consist of 6-8wts and Rio Streamer tip line.  Fill your fly boxes with a vast array of fly colors and designs.  Also take a look at Kelly Galloup’s book Modern Streamers for Trophy Trout to help you sort things out.  As always shoot us a call if you want a guided streamer trip.  

Forecast:  The rain might mess things up for a few hours, but will open the door for some great streamer water Sunday and maybe into Monday.  After that look for the flows to drop down and we will return to nymphing tactics.  


***Public Service Announcement***
Right now the trout are finishing up their spawn.  Obviously these fish need to be left alone as they typically do not feed.  This time of the year though is a great time to observe and get to see some nice quality fish.  Also refraining from wading in areas that are “fanned out” for spawning Redds is advised.  Natural reproduction is limited in Ohio streams because of our high clay and other sediment levels when the water does come up, but doing everything we can not to add to those problems is highly advised. 

Clearfork River

Clearfork Map

Like on the Mad, fishing has been very good the past week.  Most people have been nymphing and having good success.   For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  The Rio Indicator leaders really help you cast these rigs.  The main go to nymphing sticks are the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, TFO BVK and the new Pieroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  Grab a Rio Euro Nymph or Indicator leader and line for the most productive rig for this type of fishing.  If you want to build your own then add some  Amnesia, Maxima Chameleon, Rio Two Tone Indicator tippet and a pack of tippet rings to your cart.  Don’t forget the Fluorocarbon tippet also.  

Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  This time of the year do not overlook adding a Conehead Muddler, Autumn Splinder, or Clouser as a heavy “nymph” also.  During the tail end of the “leaf hatch” we typically like to focus on bright, attractor style nymphs as well.

Streamer fishing into the winter will consist of timing conditions that are on the fall.  The Clear Fork offers some unique opportunities with the more Spring Creek feel above the dam and a Tailwater below.  This provides us with extended streamer water as the lower river usually continues to be high as they stabilize the lake levels.   Also without the crops in the fields look for the water to take a slight bit longer to clear out, but that just means a few more hours for us streamer junkies.  Rigs for streamer fishing consist of 6-8wts and Rio Streamer tip line.  Fill your fly boxes with a vast array of fly colors and designs.  Also take a look at Kelly Galloup’s book Modern Streamers for Trophy Trout to help you sort things out.  As always shoot us a call if you want a guided streamer trip.  

Forecast: The rain will most likely continue to bring the flows up into early next week.  Streamer fishing will be good once things start to fall especially in the upper river.  The lower river below Pleasant Hill Dam will likely take into next week before conditions are safe to wade, but we will keep you posted.

***Public Service Announcement***
Right now the trout are finishing up their spawn.  Obviously these fish need to be left alone as they typically do not feed.  This time of the year though is a great time to observe and get to see some nice quality fish.  Also refraining from wading in areas that are “fanned out” for spawning Redds is advised.  Natural reproduction is limited in Ohio streams because of our high clay and other sediment levels when the water does come up, but doing everything we can not to add to those problems is highly advised. 



Clear Creek

Clear Creek Map

Flows are at a great level currently providing higher than normal, but clear flows.  Keep in mind that leaves are still a slight issue in this part of the state.  Fishing has continued to be great this past week.  Most of the stocked fish are now well dispersed and starting to act more like wild trout.  Like the other trout streams nymphing will be the key for numbers.  If you prefer the streamer game then Clear Creek offers great small streamer fishing throughout the winter.  Do not overlook your Tenkara Rods as either a backup or main tactic.  

Rigs for nymphing will consist of 3-5wt 9-10′ + rods.  These rods provide great control, feel, and reach.  Although this creek is not very big a long rod allows for the best presentation and longer drifts.  Use a Rio Indicator Leader when float/bobber/indicator fishing or a  Rio Euro Nymph leader when using Tightline tactics.  Streamer rods for this situation will be fast 4wts or 5-6wts.  An aggressive Scientific Anglers MPX or Rio Grand a 9′ leader and a weighted streamer will set you on the right path.  As for Tenkara we really like the TFO Cutthroat, Tenkara USA Rhodo or Iwana for this creek.  Match those rods with either the Level Line 3.5/2.5 or the Tapered Nylon leader by Tenkara USA and you are ready to go.  

Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  Streamer fishing will require Mini Dungeons, Barely Legals, Wooly Buggers, Autumn Splendor, Clousers, Trick or Treats, Orange Blossoms, Cougars, Wooly Sculpins, Cactus Wooly, and Near Nuff Sculpin to name a few. 

“I’m working in Circleville from out of town. Have fish the Mad before but Clear Creek is extremely close so I went out there Sunday and Tuesday. I used a wooly bugger and all sorts of colors dropped off that an egg or guides Choice hare’s ear or Prince Nymph. I fish those under an indicator and let swing at the end of my drift. I caught fish using both techniques and on all the aforementioned flies. I caught fish in a lot of different sections including some you have to walk a pretty good ways to get there. It seems like the freshly stocked trout have spread out. All I got were fresh stockers no holdovers to be seen. Just thought I’d let you guys know have a good day” – Kenny Babbitt , Battle creek, MI


Forecast:  Look for the rain to flush the creek out for the next few days.  The middle of next week will most likely be your best bet.  Streamer water might be good as early as Tues, but shoot us a call and we will let you know. 



Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps

Our old friend Vinnie Krzyewski stopped in the shop last week on his way to the tribs. He knew it would be tough but did manage to wrestle this beauty.

Conditions have been very tough this past week.  The higher flows of last week brought the fish in, but those flows dropped very quick making the fish unhappy.  With the high angling pressure and low water successful fisherman were forced to cover lots of water.  There have been fish being caught for those putting in the time.  Indicator fishing has produced the most success, but those that have been stripping streamers were not left out.  

You will want to be prepared for just about any situation this time of the year as the weather can change very quickly.  Ideal conditions for us are flows with stain that keeps the fish comfortably on the feed and move.  The typical Indicator rig for us is either an Air Lock or Thingamabobber float on a custom build leader tied to our 7-8wt Scientific Anglers Anadro or Rio Trout Steelhead line.  These lines offer you the best line control and short roll casting ease.  

Our go to rods are 10′ single handers or a switch rod in the 6-8wt range.  On this rig we will usually fish tandem fly rigs of two eggs, an egg and a nymph or a Wooly Bugger and an egg. Actual patterns for this type of fishing will include various colors of Wooly Buggers, Glo Bugs, Crystal Meth and Scrambled Egg also in various colors, Bloody Mary nymphs, Steelhead Candy, Chicken Littles, Steelhead and Wiggle Stones.  Tippet sizes will range from 0x-2x fluorocarbon.  

The typical rig for swinging flies will consist of a switch rod in the 10’6″-11’9″ 6-8wt range.  The new Jerry French Pieroway Renegade rods are the big talk in the shop as they are effortless to cast and light weight making them a dream to fish all day.  We have a great assortment of rods in the shop to meet your specific needs so make sure to stop by or shoot us a call.  Matching your switch rod with the right line can be intimidating if you do not have the proper guidance so make sure to give us a call!  For swinging flies either a Skagit or Scandi line with a sink tip that meets your needs will get the job done.  Add a short piece of 12-20lb tippet and a Flow Ryder, A.I Intruder or others and you will be ready to find those “grabby” fish fresh out of the “Big Lake.”  

Forecast:  This rain will be a much needed shot in the arm going into Thanksgiving week. Conditions should set up for great fishing by early to mid week.  Look for crowded rivers from Wednesday to Sunday though.   

We are continuing to book guide trips daily so make sure to contact us with a couple of your date options!


Click Here to check out the details and pricing on our Steelhead Alley Guide Service

Mad River Outfitters/Mad River Travel/Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214
614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 11/10/17

* Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information! These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and we currently don’t have a set schedule as to when we update. Please, just because we don’t update as often as we like, it doesn’t mean that we don’t care.

There are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only. Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don’t forget to call us if you need any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363

Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly….but we need your HELP!

Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we’ll do our best to get them up.



Early Holiday News hit inboxes last night. Didn’t get it? Click Here to read.



Cool Kid Alert!

Young Roberto Noden and his father booked a 1-Day Private School through the Midwest Fly Fishing Schools back in June. Brian was their instructor and they had a blast!!! He’s been applying his skills on Ohio Trout ever since. We couldn’t be more proud. 

Now, he and his father are booked to go steelheading on December 2nd and also to do a float on the Mad on December 16th. Surely you’ll be seeing more of this kid….he’s a fishing machine!

Roberto Noden and friend with a nice Rainbow on Apple Creek near Wooster.

Roberto holding a nice little Upper Clearfork Brown


We love to get feedback from MWFFS alumni…..especially the youngsters. We love working with kids and are delighted when they get hooked on the sport like Roberto has!



Warmwater

The local streams are currently pretty high and in general the Bass fishing is about done.  Not that it can’t be done, but there will be very limited fishing opportunities from here on out.  

Fishing the very small window of the warmest day time temps and targeting winter holding area will produce for those who know their local river well.  This time of the year is not a numbers game, but that one or two fish you do come in contact with will be very nice.  Also do not be surprised by a by catch of Saugeye and Hybrid Stipers.  With the water temps in the 40’s though your best bet will be to target Crappies and Panfish.  This time of the year we like to borrow some tactics from the conventional fishing side the “Float n Fly Rig.”  Fishing a float/bobber/indicator (whatever you want to call it) with a heavy minnow pattern like a Clouser and trail it with a smaller lightly weighted fly like a Crappie Special, Little Devil, or Wooly Worm is a great setup.  Target structure on drop offs either from shore or by boat.  
Pike fishing continues to be great for our clients and once the leaves flush out the fishing will get even better.  Depending on the weather Pike fishing can be great all winter as long as you are prepared to switch tactics.  Good thing we know all the details and have the rigs to guide you in the right direction.  Musky trips have also been picking up being that we have the right water flows and the leaves are starting to push out.  Make sure to give us a call as our schedules are booking up fast!

Our good friend and GREAT customer Scott Smallwood was out with Josh the other day. Pike fishing continues to be good and Josh will be splitting his time between the boat for pike and waders for steelhead for the next month or so.


Mad River


The rain has been very helpful flushing out the leaves and lingering vegetation buildup.  The river is currently slightly higher than normal for this year which is a welcome sight after the past few months of extremely low conditions.  Also a bump in flows help to disperse the stocked trout (or feeding of the resident trout as we like to call it).  

Streamer fishing has been great with this high water, but as usual these levels do not last more than a day or so.  The next week or so is going to be tough though with the leaves dropping.

Currently nymphing is your go to tactic.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  We have multiple options for great nymphing sticks.  Take a look at the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, and the new Peiroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  Tight line, High Stick, or Euro style tactics are very productive and now is a great time to do some reading up and give it a try.  Take a look at the book “Dynamic Nymphing” by George Daniels and other topic related books on our site. http://www.madriveroutfitters.com/c-172-trout-steelhead-and-general-fly-fishing-technique.aspx   

The forecast looks good for a few chances of rain.  If we do actually get more rain this will help keep the levels slightly elevated compared to normal.  Once the leaves come down, we anticipate good to excellent trout fishing on the Mad.

Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  During the “leaf hatch” we typically like to focus on bright, attractor style nymphs as well as opposed to the more natural colors. 
***Public Service Announcement***
Right now the trout are staging or are currently in spawn mode.  Obviously these fish need to be left alone as they typically do not feed.  This time of the year though is a great time to observe and get to see some nice quality fish.  Also refraining from wading in areas that are “fanned out” for spawning Redds is advised.  Natural reproduction is limited in Ohio streams because of our high clay and other sediment levels when the water does come up, but doing everything we can not to add to those problems is highly advised. 

Clearfork River

Clearfork Map

Like on the Mad the rain has been very helpful flushing out the leaves and lingering vegetation buildup.  The river is currently slightly higher than normal for this year which is a welcome sight after the past few months of extremely low conditions.  Also a bump in flows help to disperse the stocked trout (or feeding of the resident trout as we like to call it).  Streamer fishing has been great with this high water, but as usual these levels do not last more than a few days.  Either above Pleasant Hill or below nymphing is your go to tactic for most conditions here on out.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  We have multiple options for great nymphing sticks.  Take a look at the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, and the new Peiroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  Tightly line, High Stick, or Euro style tactics are very productive and now is a great time to do some reading up and give it a try.  Take a look at the book “Dynamic Nymphing” by George Daniels and other topic related books on our site.   


The forecast looks good for a few chances of rain.  If we do actually get more rain this will help keep the levels slightly elevated compared to normal.  




Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear. Once the leaves clear out, and assuming we get some more rain, the streamer fishing should really pick-up as well.

***Public Service Announcement***
Right now the trout are staging or are currently in spawn mode.  Obviously these fish need to be left alone as they do not feed.  This time of the year though is a great time to observe and get to see some nice quality fish.  Also refraining from wading in areas that are “fanned out” for spawing Redds is advised.  Natural reproduction is limited in Ohio streams because of our high clay and other sediment levels when the water does come up, but doing everything we can not to add to those problems is highly advised.  



Clear Creek

Clear Creek Map

Like most every stream in the state the past rain event brought the creek up and flushed out the thick leaves.  Flows are at a great level currently providing higher than normal flows.  Despite the higher flows conditions are great and look good into this coming week.  Like the other trout streams in the state nymphing will be the key for numbers.  If you prefer the streamer game then Clear Creek offers great small streamer fishing throughout the winter.  Rigs for nymphing will include long rods, indicators, and two flies.  
  
The forecast looks good for a few chances of rain.  If we do actually get more rain this will continue to help keep the levels slightly elevated and should help flush the leaves.

Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.
Streamer fishing will require a different rig.  Most of the time we will pull out or 5-6wt rods and short streamer tip line or use our aggressive tapers and weighted streamers.  With a sinking line a short leader is all that is needed.  If you do not like to build your own then take a look at the Rio Big Nasty Leaders and cut the butt section back 2 feet.  A floating line will require a 7 1/2′ to 9′ leader.  Streamers to stock up on are Mini Dungeons, Barely Legals, Wooly Buggers, Autumn Splendor, Clousers, Trick or Treats, Orange Blossoms, Cougars, Wooly Sculpins, Cactus Wooly, and Near Nuff Sculpin to name a few. 


Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps

“Steelhead Alley Double” for Don Belock and Joe Anclien yesterday. They were out with MRO Guide Josh McQueen and had an excellent day of Ohio Steelheading!


We have finally gotten the BIG push of water we have needed to continue the flushing out process of the leaves.  With this rain we have also continued to have a great number of fish flood the Lake Erie Tributaries.  Looking into the weekend we expect to have great fishing despite the cold temperatures.  The end of the weekend and into next week will warm back up and provide great opportunities to catch your first steelie of the season.  There is a slight chance of rain in the forecast so lets hope that every few days we a little water to keep the stream levels right.  
Indicator/bobber fishing and swinging have been the most productive the past week.  You will want to be prepared for just about any situation this time of the year as the weather can change very quickly.  Ideal conditions for us are flows with stain that keeps the fish comfortably on the feed and move.  The typical Indicator rig for us is either an Air Lock or Thingamabobber float on a custom build leader tied to our 7-8wt Scientific Anglers Anadro or Rio Trout Steelhead line.  

Our go to rods are 10′ single handers or a switch rod in the 6-8wt range.  On this rig we will usually fish tandem fly rigs of two eggs, an egg and a nymph or a Wooly Bugger and an egg. Actual patterns for this type of fishing will include various colors of Wooly Buggers, Glo Bugs, Crystal Meth and Scrambled Egg also in various colors, Bloody Mary nymphs, Steelhead Candy, Chicken Littles, Steelhead and Wiggle Stones.  Tippet sizes will range from 0x-2x fluorocarbon.  
The typical rig for swinging flies will consist of a switch rod in the 10’6″-11’9″ 6-8wt range.  The new Jerry French Pieroway Renegade rods are the big talk in the shop as they are effortless to cast and light weight making them a dream to fish all day.  We have a great assortment of rods in the shop to meet your specific needs so make sure to stop by or shoot us a call.  Matching your switch rod with the right line can be intimidating if you do not have the proper guidance so make sure to give us a call!  For swinging flies either a Skagit or Scandi line with a sink tip that meets your needs will get the job done.  Add a short piece of 12-20lb tippet and a Flow Ryder, A.I Intruder or others and you will be ready to find those “grabby” fish fresh out of the “Big Lake.”  

We are continuing to book guide trips daily so make sure to contact us with a couple of your date options!


Click Here to check out the details and pricing on our Steelhead Alley Guide Service


Mad River Outfitters/Mad River Travel/Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214
614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 11/3/17

* Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information! These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and we currently don’t have a set schedule as to when we update. Please, just because we don’t update as often as we like, it doesn’t mean that we don’t care.

There are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only. Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don’t forget to call us if you need any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363

Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly….but we need your HELP!

Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we’ll do our best to get them up.


Anybody up for some Bahamas Bonefish this Winter?

Join host Pat Kelly at the Andros Island Bonefish Club- “Land of the Giants”

February 17th- 24th, 2018

You get to Andros Island and we’ll do the rest!

Click Here for further details, pricing and photos 




Warmwater

Well for the past week or so have really put a damper on the Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass fishing.  With the night temps being so low most of the water is in the upper 40’s to mid 50’s.  This has really made it tough to have good number days.  Fishing during the warmest part of the day in typical Fall holding water will treat you well if you take your time thoroughly covering water.  Fish this time of the year are focused on putting on weight before winter comes.  Targeting the local streams you will need at least an Intermediate sinking line like the Scientific Anglers Sonar Titan Clear Tip and large Shad color/style flies.  We really like the Modern Deceivers, Half and Half, Big Fish Deceiver, and really any Kelly Galloup articulated streamers. 

Pond fishing has definitely slowed down as the water is cooling off fast.  Fish deep with slow swimming motion flies like the Super Worm, Reaper, and J-Pig for bass.  Panfish are still being caught, but most are using an indicator and flies like Clousers, Crappie Specials, or big trout nymphs to get the job done.  

Pike fishing continues to be the best we have ever had.  Right now we are having a little problem with leaves especially if using the Jet Boats…good thing we have Drift Boats and rafts!  We have a couple more months of great Pike fishing, but we can fish all winter as long as the weather treats us well.  Make sure to contact the shop to book your dates! 
Speaking of Pike, we had the pleasure of spending some time on the water with Ryan Shea who owns Brookdog Fishing Company up in New York. Here is what he had to say on his Blog:

EXPLORING A SLICE OF OHIO

It’s been nearly a year now since I started following Josh McQueen of Mad River Outfitters on social media. I began following him because he was posting pics of some beautiful pike – all caught on the fly. Over time, only looking at those fish on a little screen became too much for me to take. When I found out they were natives and Josh gave me the back story on the fish – I had to experience this place for myself. What an awesome experience!

Small, clear rivers. Tons of timber and over hanging trees. Numerous challenges for the fly caster. My kind of place. It’s a tough watershed to fish even for the best of casters. However, all the risky casts and snags that sometimes follow are well worth it. Missiles shoot out of nowhere, startle the hell out of you, and just destroy your fly. This pattern persists throughout the day. Every down tree, root ball, and impingement presents an opportunity. We caught over 400 inches of fish in 2 days.

Accompanying great fishing was an even better guy. Josh is an awesome guide. He’s passionate about his fishery and his craft. I felt like I’d known him for years within minutes of meeting him. Oh yeah – within minutes of meeting him, I caught a pike over 30 minutes and the action didn’t stop all day. Josh told me that this place fishes well year so I’m already planning on another visit during the winter. Stay tuned!

Thanks Ryan for the kind words and for the shout out on your Blog.

Be sure to check out the Blog HERE

Check out Ryan’s website HERE.


Mad River


Finally a little bump in flows on the Mad has pushed out some of the leaves and moss.  The only issue is that there are still leaves on some trees.  Unless we get a hard freeze after some rain we will be dealing with the leaves for another week or two.  There have been some fish caught, but with the low flows the fishing has been slow.  Look for fishing into the weekend to be better because of the slight raise of flows.  

Nymphing will be the best option if the water continues to drop.   For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  We have multiple options for great nymphing sticks.  Take a look at the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, and the new Peiroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  The forecast looks good for a few chances of rain.  If we do actually get more rain pull out your streamer rod, sink tip line, and big flies.  We really like the Rio Streamer Tip, short leader, and articulated streamers fished on our 6-8wts.  

Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  Streamers will be Bottom’s Up, Dungeons, Modern Deceivers, and Bunkers to name a few.  

**Public Service Announcement**  The ODNR stocked trout during the month of October.  Most of the stockings are at the bridges.  There are many people who actually get to catch their first trout taking advantage of these stocking.  Keep in mind that these fish are the future of the fishery and must be treated with the utmost care.  We suggest keeping the pressure off or at least very light on these fish.  Make sure to pinch your barbs and handle them delicately keeping them in the water as much as possible. 

Clearfork River

Clearfork Map

We have finally gotten a push of water to fire things up in the upper river.  Although it is not much look for the fish to start moving.  With the chance of rain in the forecast hopefully we will get the water table filled back up keeping good flows in the river.  They are letting water out of Pleasant Hill giving the area in the Park a good flush out of the leaves.  It is currently high, but as long as it stays under that 1.5′ range it is safe for experienced waders who take care. 


Nymphing will be the best option in both sections.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  We have multiple options for great nymphing sticks.  Take a look at the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, and the new Peiroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.    For streamers we pull out the 6-8wts Rio Streamer Tip and the biggest streamers we can cast on these rods.  


Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  Streamers will be Bottom’s Up, Dungeons, Modern Deceivers, and Bunkers to name a few.  


**Public Service Announcement**  The ODNR stocked trout during the month of October.  Most of the stockings are at the bridges.  There are many people who actually get to catch their first trout taking advantage of these stocking.  Keep in mind that these fish are the future of the fishery and must be treated with the utmost care.  We suggest keeping the pressure off or at least very light on these fish.  Make sure to pinch your barbs and handle them delicately keeping them in the water as much as possible.


Clear Creek

Clear Creek Map

Clear Creek has not bumped as much as the other streams in the state, but is fishing ok.  With the forecast the levels should continue to raise.  The leaves are getting really bad so some water would be very helpful.  Like the other trout streams in the state nymphing will be the best option unless we get some streamer water.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  We have multiple options for great nymphing sticks.  Take a look at the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, and the new Peiroway Renegade 9’6″ 5wt to name a few.  For streamers we pull out the 6wts Rio Streamer Tip and streamers like Mini Dungeons, Wooly Sculpins, Buggers, Barely Legals, and Stacked Blonde.  Nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ears will get the job done.  

**Public Service Announcement**  The ODNR stocked trout during the month of October.  Most of the stockings are at the bridges.  There are many people who actually get to catch their first trout taking advantage of these stocking.  Keep in mind that these fish are the future of the fishery and must be treated with the utmost care.  We suggest keeping the pressure off or at least very light on these fish.  Make sure to pinch your barbs and handle them delicately keeping them in the water as much as possible.


Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps

We are now officially offering Float Trips on several Ohio Tributaries for steelhead. Click Here for details and pricing on booking a guide on Steelhead Alley.

Man are we fielding calls and booking trips for the past few days. Thanks!!! It appears that folks in the region have “Steelhead Fever”.  With the new SA Spey Lite, Jerry French Renegade rods, and Scott L2H and T3H rods in the shop everyone has Steelhead on the mind.  We are really excited to “Get this going”.

Our partner and steelhead mentor Jerry Darkes always says: “Steelhead season starts once the leaves are down and the water ‘greens-up'”. Looks like we are about there so get ready!!!

We have gotten a push of water and there are fish moving into the tribs.  This weekend looks really good especially with the forecasted rain.  Indicator fishing with tandem fly rigs bring the numbers to hand.  If this is your game then make sure your 10′ 7wt is ready with a reel with good drag and a Rio Trout/Steelhead line.  Organize your egg box and make sure to have a good assortment of Wooly Buggers and Chicken Littles.  If you are new to steelhead fishing  booking a guide will take years off the learning curve.  Grab Nagy’s Steelhead Guide book and do a little homework before your trip.  It’s pretty much the Bible for Erie Steelheaders.

“Steelhead Guide”- by John Nagy

Flies for Indicator fishing will be Glo Bugs, Scrambled Eggs, Meth, and others.  In conjunction with these we like to fish nymphs like Wiggle Stones, Psycho Prince, Formally Known as Prince, and Steelhead Candy.  We also fish Wooly Buggers in the place of the nymphs in many situations. 

If you like to swing we have a load of new items in the shop.  SA Spey Lite lines, new flies, and rods have been keeping us busy.  Make sure to give us a call or stop in the shop to help you sort through all of this as it can be overwhelming on your own.   If you are looking to swing make sure to have pleny of Senyo’s A.I and Flow Ryder along with the new Sili Leg Intruder for flies.  

Looking ahead things will continue to be great as long as we get some rain every few days.  We are booking guide trips daily so make sure to contact us soon to get your name on our calendar.  

A few shots from a successful float trip last week. Things are starting to happen!



Mad River Outfitters/Mad River Travel/Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214
614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 10/11/17

* Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information! These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and we currently don’t have a set schedule as to when we update. Please, just because we don’t update as often as we like, it doesn’t mean that we don’t care.

There are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only. Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don’t forget to call us if you need any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363

Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly….but we need your HELP!

Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we’ll do our best to get them up.


We LOVE Happy Customers!



Jackson Ballinger with his 1st fish on a fly rod!

MRO Friends,

Attached is the picture of our grandson Jackson Ballinger age 9 with his first fly rod that I purchased for him from your store. Less than 24 hours later he got his first fish. 
Thanks for your help.

Roy Whited


Caleb Blair and his 1st Pike on gear purchased on www.madriveroutfitters.com
Hello,
    
A little over 2 years ago I contacted you guys looking for a musky rig. I don’t remember who I spoke to. I was easily convinced to chose a 10 wt TFO over an Orvis. The whole purchasing experience was based on trust as I live in North West New Mexico and was not able to be in your store to handle the rod in person. I’ve used this rod perhaps a dozen times and my efforts so far have been fruitless in my pursuit to catch a pike or muskie on a fly rod,  until today. Even though this pike is a small one I wanted to share it with you and thank you for recommending the rod and reel.   Both the TFO and the Ross are definitely my finest fishing products.

Sincerely,
Caleb Blair


Top student who has now graduated to a guide client…..Brennon Shanks

My dad and I went out smallmouth fishing with Pat Kelly of Mad River Outfitters. I found the experience to be beyond expectations, as I learned so much about fly casting, presentation, and fish behavior. Pat did an excellent job of answering any questions we had and was always helpful and enjoyable to fish with. I really enjoyed his enthusiasm and excitement for fly fishing as well, it made the trip so much more fun because one of the best parts of fishing is sharing your passion with others. I sincerely thank you guys for all the help developing my fly fishing and always being encouraging and fun to be around. All the best!

Brennon Shanks


Kathy Schultz at the 1-Day Fly Fishing School in September
We inherited some fly fishing gear from my father, and we spoke with Brian about what to do with it in Ohio. We attended the 2 hour free class, which was excellent, and it inspired us to take the one day class on the river in Zanesfield. Brian was very patient, working with a group who had a wide range of experience and knowledge. Brian covered a lot of information and made a very confusing topic understandable. Brian debunked a lot of the ritual associated with the sport. We couldn’t stump him on any questions related to fishing – he has a wealth of experience about current topics as well as fly fishing history. We all enjoyed the day, and we now have confidence in going alone. The best part of learning how to fly fish was the next day! We had an amazing feeling of tranquility and zen! Thank you Brian for getting us involved with fly fishing!

Art and Kathy Schultz


Bill Previty was on our “Naktoberfest” Alaska Trip in September with host Jeff Liskay

MRO,

This year’s trip to Alaska with Jeff Liskay was one of my best fishing trips ever. Jeff did a superb job as coordinator, coach, and cheerleader. The fishing was spectacular, the new lodge a treat, good food, and great guides headed up by James who is managing the lodge. We had a good cross section of participants who enjoyed each other’s company and spiced up the entire week with good humor. I am sure Jeff will provide you a dropbox with a good array of photos. We did have a little competition on the river from a brown fisherman.

Thanks again for allowing me to swap to this year’s trip after some medical issues last year. I can say at the end of the week of six straight days spey casting that my arms and shoulders were a bit tired. Comes with age. I’ll be in Columbus late next week and will drop by the shop. I certainly would be interested in another late September trip next year.

Warm regards,
Bill Previty- Boise, Idaho



Thanks for all the great feedback and reviews friends! We love to hear it so…..keep it coming.




Warmwater



Smallmouth fishing continued to be great going into the past weekend.  Currently the local streams are high and muddy.  Looking at the rest of the week’s forecast the streams will continue to drop back into fishable levels for this weekend if not sooner.  This rain was a much needed event to flush out some thick vegetation and leaves that have been backing up in the low water.  Once levels stabilize and water clears then we will find some very nice Smallmouth and Hybrid fishing.  If you do want to get out this week keep an eye on the gauges and focus on the smaller rivers in the area.  Shoot us a call and we will help you sort all this out.  


Going into the fall the main rig we call use will be a fast action 7wt (6-8wt will get the job done) Scientific Anglers Titan Clear Tip, short leader in the 12-20lb tippet range and a large streamer.  Take a look at the Modern Streamers in the Flies section of the website.  Here you will find all of the patterns that fill our Bass boxes.  


Lake fishing has also started to fire back up.  Again once the water conditions settle in the local lakes the bass will continue to focus on schools of baitfish.  The water temps are still pretty high, but are falling.  As the fish get conditioned to the lower temps they will start to feed heavily in prep for the winter.  This is a great time to be fishing the lakes and ponds around the state.  With the stream conditions not favorable then we are taking advantage of the numerous opportunities for Largemouth Bass and Panfish.  


If you are new to Bass fishing make sure to take advantage of one of our guides.  Things usually start to slow down at the end of this month so give us a call before our schedules are booked up.  Speaking of guide trips the Pike fishing continues to be amazing!  Josh and Pat have been steadily putting clients on fish.  Take a look at our guide trip page to see the quality of these fish…and in OHIO! 

Dr. Neil Murphy on an MRO Pike Guide Trip this past Susnday!


Mad River


As usual the Mad did not significantly change despite the inch of rain over the past few days. Conditions continue to be low and clear.  

The fish are cooperating though as long as you plan out your approach.  Utilize extreme stealth (as usual for this Spring Creek) making sure you have your casting well tuned.  Just like for the past few months you will want to use all of the stealth tactics in your tool box.  Always the case with this river but things are extremely exaggerated right now.

Tactics for the rest of the week and into the weekend will focus on nymphing.  Here we like long rods in the 9-11′ range with the longer rods focused on the Euro techniques.  With the low conditions a very small indicator is must for either traditional nymphing or the Euro/tight line tactics.  Here one of the Wool New Zealand indicators are the most versatile.  Flies will consist of small Hares Ears, Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, and caddis like the Flashabou or Nitro.  Trail these with a slightly smaller unweighted fly and you will be set.  If you need some split shot make sure to have the micro sizes as you do not want to use shot as big or bigger than your fly. 

 In the evenings there have been some good caddis activity.  We usually fish a dry like the Elk Hair Caddis or October Caddis with a small lightly or unweighted dropper like the Galloup’s Diving Caddis or small Guides Choice.   

Clearfork River

Clearfork Map

The rain did help the flows earlier, but they have dropped back down.  Focus on the upper river until they settle the flows back down below the dam.  Focus on nymphing the upper river with caddis and small mayfly nymphs.  Flies will consist of small Hares Ears, Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, and caddis like the Flashabou or Nitro.  Trail these with a slightly smaller unweighted fly and you will be set.  Like on the Mad in the evenings there have been some good caddis activity.  We usually fish a dry like the Elk Hair Caddis or October Caddis with a small lightly or unweighted dropper like the Sunken Caddis or small Guides Choice.


If you just want to fish the lower then you will need to be stripping streamers with a sink tip line. The Scientific Anglers Titan Clear Tip or Rio Streamer Tip, short leader in the 12-20lb tippet range and a large streamer will get the job done.  Take a look at the Modern Streamers in the Flies section of the website.  You will be rewarded with a good mixed bag of fish down there below the dam. 


Clear Creek

Clear Creek Map

The creek is currently “high” and off color, but clearing and falling fast.  Conditions should be good later in the week and into the weekend.  Nymphing will present the most productivity.  Like in the other reports your rig will be small Hares Ears, Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, and caddis like the Flashabou or Nitro.  Trail these with a slightly smaller unweighted fly and you will be set.  

Small streamers can be a good choice also.  Wooly Buggers, Glass Buggers, Mojo Minnows, Skiddish Smolts, and the new Mini Dungeons are great choices.  Here you will want fast 5wts and 6wts.  As long as you are fishing a weighted streamer a sink tip is not ususally needed on this small creek.  Also keep a few caddis dries hand once everything clears.  Here typically small Elk Hair Caddis and Goddard Caddis are the key, but do not overlook those bigger October caddis if you do not see any fish rising. 


Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps

Steelhead Season is right around the corner in the Great Lakes Region!

RAIN!!!  We have finally gotten a decent push of water up to the lake.  Everything as expected is dropping fast though.  There is some scattered rain in the forecast which will be needed to keep the conditions perfect into the weekend.  Just because the SOME fish are moving into the Tributaries does not mean that you need to drop everything and call off work…this is just the very beginning of the run.  There are many factors that we need to keep in mind when heading that way.  Keep an eye on the water temps.  Looking at the forecast the air temps will be pushing 80.  If the streams get low there might be a water temp issue.  Just something to keep in mind.  This week focus on the lower rivers and harbors.  Stripping streamers, swinging flies and indicator/bobber fishing buggers, eggs, and nymphs will cover all your tactics needed.  If you are new to this game stop by or give us a call and we will help you get set up.  If swinging and Spey casting is your game we have the Scientific Anglers Spey Lite lines, Sonar Leaders and the best Skagit tips on the market the TC Textured dual density tips.  

If you need help lining a rod contact us and we will take the confusion out of the game.  
Interested in a guide trip this coming Fall Season?

Our guides can provide most equipment and are available most any time.

Click HERE for information and pricing on an Erie Steelhead Trip.

Mad River Outfitters/Mad River Travel/Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214
614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 9/30/17

* Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information! These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and we currently don’t have a set schedule as to when we update. Please, just because we don’t update as often as we like, it doesn’t mean that we don’t care.

There are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only. Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don’t forget to call us if you need any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363

Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly….but we need your HELP!

Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we’ll do our best to get them up.


New Orleans Redfish Update-

The trip was a smashing success! Great group of guys enjoyed a fantastic adventure at Woodland Plantation. 2018 dates are already up on the website and we expect that most that attended this year will repeat. It simply doesn’t get any better!

The 2017 Woodland Plantation Group- Left to right: Mike Billow, David Ellis, David Kitchen, Al Carnes, John Raisbeck, Jeremy Moore, Ralph Rothfelder, host Brian Flechsig, Phil Clay, Ed Yen and Woodland owner Foster Creppel.

Trip host Brian Flechsig. Hands-down his favorite destination on the planet!


CLICK HERE to view the full photo album.

CLICK HERE to check out the details and pricing on the 2018 trip.



“Naktoberfest” Alaska Update-

The group, hosted by Jeff Liskay,  is just arriving back in Anchorage here this afternoon and then dispersing to their hometowns so we don’t have a ton of photos yet….but we will. Preliminary reports have this as an “Epic” week of swinging up trophy rainbows and more. It does look like they did a fly out for Arctic Char as well so we can’t wait to dig into the photos once the guys get home and start sending. Keep your eyes on the Photo Albums as well as Social Media for updates.

The “Naktoberfest” group had a surprise visit from none other than Jerry Darkes. Here is long-time friend and great customer Bill Previty and Jerry with a trophy rainbow.

MRO Trip host Jeff Liskay and James Johnson from the Katmai Trophy Lodge/Blue Bonefish Lodge 
Jeff Liskay twisting up some bugs for the group this week at Katmai Trophy Lodge


CLICK HERE to learn more about our Alaska Trips- 2018 dates already posted



Next up in October: Peacock Bass in Brazil-

Pat Kelly hosts 8 lucky anglers in Brazil for Peacock Bass- October 21st- 28th


CLICK HERE to learn more about our legendary trips to Brazil



Warmwater


Low Low Low!  Across the state everything is running low and clear.  That does not necessarily mean the fishing is bad.  We now have good temps, but we just need some rain to make the fishing even better.  

Smallmouth Bass fishing has been very good.  Pencil poppers and small streamers provided the most consistency.  With this cold snap we are all excited to hunt for big fish.  The stream fish will start to put the feed on like a few weeks ago.  Float trips right now are pretty tough due to the conditions, but we can still run a few on certain waters.  If you want to target some big Smallmouth Bass then make sure to get a date setup before the leaves start to come down.  

Lake and pond fishing will fire back up into next week.  The Largemouth Bass have been in summer mode holding in deep water.  Most of the lake temps have been in the upper 70s and lower 80s.  Once the fish adjust to these cooler temps they will be much easier to catch.  These big fish will start to move shallow searching to fatten up before the water temps fall.  


Ohio Power/AEP is a great place to catch a good number of large bass and panfish. The fishing there can be FANTASTIC in the Fall. 


Not familiar? Hit this link here:


https://www.aep.com/environment/conservation/recland/



Pike fishing continues to be strong as well and should continue through the fall. Interested in a trip? Let us know. Pat and Josh have a few openings yet in October and November and would love to get you out on the jets or drift boats.

Josh was out today scouting some new water on some smaller creeks. He’s reporting that we should have some new options in the rotation soon. 

Mad River


As with everything else the flows are low.  We will need a steady rain over a couple days to fire the streamer bite back up.  This doesn’t mean that the fishing has been bad, just very technical.  
Euro style nymphing, long leaders, and Tenkara have provided the most success.  There are a few caddis and small mayflies around, but the dry fly fishing has been inconsistent.  As Fall progresses nymphing will be the best tactic.  We prefer a longer rod for nymphing something like the Redington Hydrogen 10′ 3 or 4wt, 10′ 4wt BVK, or Sage ESN.  Flies for nymphing will be the usual Hares Ear, Pheasant Tail, Prince Nymph, and the caddis imitations like the Nitro Caddis, Swinks Core Caddis , and the Flashabou Caddis.  Trail these bead headed nymphs with a soft hackle and you are set.  Once we get some water you will want to add a Double Stone to the mix to get your rig down. 

Keep a few caddis dries in your box and maybe add a few small Blue Wing Olives or Parachute Adams……although the dry fly bite has been pretty tough here the past week or so. 

Like in earlier reports you will need to use all of Mat Supinski’s tactics from Selectivity.  Stealthy approach is nothing new for the Mad, but with these conditions you will have to be extra careful.  

Clearfork River

Clearfork Map

Nothing much has changed over the past month.  The creek is very low.  If you are up that way there are trout around, but you will have to use very long drifts and casts.  Fish very small caddis and midges both dries and nymphs on long leaders.  Euro or High Stick drifting will be the most productive presentations also.  


Down in the park below Pleasant Hill Dam there have been a good mixture of fish being caught. A few trout with plenty of Smallies and Rockbass are the norm.  If you are looking to cross off a new species on the catch list then take advantage of the great Yellow Perch fishing.  These panfish are plentiful and of good size.  Fishing small streamers like Buggers, Zonkers, Clousers, and gummy minnows will keep you busy with the mixed bag.  


The forecast does not look like much will change in the flows.  As soon as the water levels do come up then fishing bigger streamers will bring the bigger fish to hand. 


Clear Creek

Clear Creek Map


Same story for this little creek.  The water temps have been better than we have ever seen them this year.  At flows in the teens we need some rain to get the fish more fired up and not so skittish.  Very stealthy approaches have been needed.  Tenkara has been the most productive allowing the individual to naturally drift a fly with little to no line on the water.  Also tight line nymphing will get the job done and allow you to fish even deeper.  

As for flies for nymphing will be the usual Hares Ear, Pheasant Tail, Prince Nymph, and the caddis imitations like the Nitro Caddis, Swinks Core Caddis , and the Flashabou Caddis.  Trail these bead headed nymphs with a soft hackle and you are set.  If you are in the Hocking Hills enjoying the changing leaves and want to trout fish then study up on your weary trout tactics or grab Matt Supinski’s book Selectivity.  There have also been a few smallies caught on those fishing small Clousers and Classis trout streamers like the Black Nose Dace, and Grey Ghost. 


Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps

Steelhead Season is right around the corner in the Great Lakes Region!

Nothing has changed other than the air temperature.  These cooler night temps will push the fish even tighter to the beaches.  Once we get some significant rain there will be a good push of fish.  Keep an eye here and we will keep you updated.  There have been a lot of people in the shop gearing up for fishing the Alley.  If you want to get a Spey casting class in make sure to contact the shop before the run starts!

Interested in a guide trip this coming Fall Season?

Our guides can provide most equipment and are available most any time.

Click HERE for information and pricing on an Erie Steelhead Trip.

Mad River Outfitters
Mad River Travel
Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214
614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 9/22/17

* Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information! These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and we currently don’t have a set schedule as to when we update. Please, just because we don’t update as often as we like, it doesn’t mean that we don’t care.

There are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only. Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don’t forget to call us if you need any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363

Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly….but we need your HELP!

Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we’ll do our best to get them up.


Busy September for MRO!

San Juan, “Naktoberfest” and New Orleans

* Shop manager Andy Jensen just returned from hosting the San Juan River trip and he can’t stop talking about it! We have been hosting trips at the Soaring Eagle Lodge for about 8 years now and can’t say enough about the place. We should be posting the dates for 2018 within a week or so and the host next year will be Brian Flechsig himself. In the meantime, check out the updated photo album HERE.

MRO shop manager Andy Jensen- 2017 host of the Soaring Eagle Lodge Trip

* Today the “Naktoberfest” Alaska group left the lower 48 and should all be arriving into Anchorage shortly. Tomorrow they will take the flight from Anchorage to King Salmon and be whisked off to the Katmai Trophy Lodge on the banks of the Naknek River. There they will be met by MRO Trip Host Jeff Liskay and will spend the week swinging up Trophy Rainbow Trout! Dates are already in place for the Alaska Trips 2018 and you can find those and the details HERE.

“Speymaster” Jeff Liskay is hosting our Alaska “Naktoberfest” Trip


* And last but certainly not least, Brian Flechsig is heading up our annual New Orleans trip to the Woodland Plantation. He and a group of 9 lucky anglers will spend the week chasing GIANT Bull Reds, eating cajun home cooking and enjoying some cocktails. Truly one of our favorite trips! He should have good internet access so stay tuned to Social Media for videos and pictures throughout the week.

He’s fished “few places” in his career and swears this is the BEST!



Warmwater



Smallmouth fishing has been good despite the low water.  A successful smallmouth fishing trip requires some homework understanding water temps and river features.  Streamer fishing will produce the most fish, but poppers are still producing.  The new Double Barrel poppers have been a big hit and going fast.  


Looking at the forecast things are going to continue to be fantastic.  Temperatures are remaining warm keeping fish in shallower water.  The local streams have been producing thick Caddis hatches and the small panfish and minnows have been raising to them.  Fishing a Fat Head Moth or Elk Hair caddis can be a fun change and add a few new species to your catch list.  


Tactics include fishing smaller patterns like more trout sized streamers, smaller poppers, and crawfish patterns.  Your boxes should include Black Nose Dace, Natural colored Wooly Buggers, Dirty Hippies, Dave Whitlock’s Near Nuff patterns, Pencil Poppers, Double Barrel Poppers, Hoppers, Fat Head Moths, Lt Cahills, and large Stimulators.  


Largemouth/Lake fishing has been stable.  The local lakes are still rather warm so look for the fish to be in summer patterns or following schools of baitfish.  Sinking lines and slow jigging style flies will produce.  Stock up on Super Worms, Half and Halfs, Bottoms Up, J-Pigs, and Reapers.  Poppers at low light can also be a great choice.  Now that the boat traffic has slowed fishing the main lakes has been much easier. 



Mad River


The river is very low and with the forecast things are not going to change for a while.  That doesn’t mean that you can’t catch fish, but it does present challenges.

Fish midges and small caddis for the most productive dry fly action….although with the weather we are experiencing an extension of our terrestrial season. With the temps next week do not overlook your ant and beetle box also.  We have also been seeing good numbers of the Pseudocloen mayflies and there have been some fish feeding on them. A #20-22 BWO or Sulpher pattern works fine for these but make sure you are fishing a long leader and 6X or 7X tippet.

You will need to pull out all of your Spring Creek and stealth tactics….but it can be done. Long leaders, light tippets, drab clothing….all important right now.  If you are new to fly fishing or your casting needs improvement then make sure you get a lesson in before heading to the river.  Stealthy approaches with little line on the water are the keys to success.  

These conditions are also a great time to hone your Tenkara skills.  There are plenty of fish to be caught if you follow these recommendations.  As always if you need any help with this we will set your straight.

Streamer anglers will want to scale things back and revisit some classics like Gray Ghosts, Muddler Minnows and smaller Wooly Buggers. The Galloup style articulated stuff will probably have to wait until the leaves come down and we get some water.

Nymph fishing is of course your best bet and we have been doing extremely well on Green Caddis Larva, Green or Red Copper Johns as well as small Prince Nymphs. Also a good time to fish the Cranefly Larva as there have been a bunch of the adults around.

Clearfork River

Clearfork Map

The Creek is VERY low.  If you are heading that direction and just to fish trout,  then very early mornings will be the most productive.  As with the Mad you will need to “be on your best behavior” and fish as stealthy as possible.


At well under 15cfs and the predicted temps it might be more ethical to head below Pleasant Hill and fish for Smallmouth Bass and Panfish. 


Let’s hope for some rain and cooler temps so that we can get back to business on the CF.


Clear Creek

Clear Creek Map


Despite the great water temps the creek is very low and extremely challenging.  Most of the trout have been very weary requiring little to no fly line on the water.  If you happen to be down in the Hocking Hills taking in some early Fall colors and want to fish make sure to have your Tenkara rods or Redington Hydrogen 10′ 3wt.  

Soft Hackles, midges, ants, and beetles will cover your dry fly fishing with small Pheasant Tails and Hares Ears for nymphing. Streamers are pretty much out of the question until we get some water.


Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps

Steelhead Season is right around the corner in the Great Lakes Region!

We are still a ways out from good fishing.  With the forecast also things are not going to progress in the coming week.  If you are up that way focus on the Jettys and Beaches at the creek mouths.  This is a game of sinking lines/shooting heads, stripping baskets and shiner patterns.  Hit these areas at first light.  This is not a high percentage game, but is great to hook a fish stripping at streamer when it has the whole lake to fight in!  Once the sun comes up over the tree line your better off sight fishing for Sheephead or targeting Smallmouth on the lake shore or in the lower rivers. 

Interested in a guide trip this coming Fall Season?

Our guides can provide most equipment and are available most any time.

Click HERE for information and pricing on an Erie Steelhead Trip.



Mad River Outfitters and The Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!


www.madriveroutfitters.com