Mad River Outfitters Fishing Reports

The Mad continues to fish great over the past week and looking at the forecast….it should remain good to even better The rain did little to raise the flows, but any amount of stain is always welcome.

Looking at the weather this weekend we will be focusing on the evenings skating Fat Head Moths and other caddis patterns. The White Miller Caddis have been active and is always an exciting hatch to fish. A great rig is the Fat Head Moth with a #14 Green Soft Hackle behind it…and don’t be afraid to swing/skate it. Can bring some explosive strikes.

We have not heard any reports or witnessed first hand on how the Tricos are doing over the past week so let us know if you are still seeing any. Chances are that they will begin to slow up with this cooler weather. The White Mayflies (Ephrons) have still been pretty good in the evenings but these may begin to slow up here as we get into September as well.

If you can only make it out in the mornings make sure to have plenty of caddis nymphs and soft hackles as these are the most productive right now. Also always have your small trout streamer box handy. Fishing small streamers are a great way to cover water and hunt for fish.

We have guides out scouting and with clients so we will keep you updated on what is happening if things change.

Our good friend and customer Jacob Arima sent us this photo this week of a decent Brown caught on the Mad. He’s been taking a bunch of classes from us this year and really growing as an angler. He wouldn’t tell us what he caught this fish on so he’s learning well!!

Clearfork River

The creek is currently very low and clear. The rain did not amount to much of anything up that way, but there is another push of water in the forecast. This weekend looks great up there, but your best bet will be focusing on a mixed bag below the Pleasant Hill Dam. The trout fishing in the upper river will only improve once we get some consistent rain totals to bring the flows up. There are fish to be caught up there, but you will need to pull out Matt Supinski’s book Selectivity to make it happen.

Tactics for fishing below the dam will be poppers (we have a big load of the new Flymen Double Barrel poppers now in the shop and online store)and small streamers like “Buggers, Autumn Splinder, Clousers, Big Eyed Buggers, Glass Buggers, and Meat Whistles.

These flies will keep you busy with Bass, Rockbass, Panfish and even Perch.

Clear Creek

The shot of rain has brought the stream up slightly…it is still only around 30cfs! The falling temps and additional rain in the forecast should be a good “shot in the arm” for this little creek. We will keep you updated with changes as the week goes on. Although the water temps this summer have been great, the trout fishing has been slow. With the low flows we have had to use every technical tactic in the book to have a good day. Covering lots of water, perfect drifts and little to no water disturbance has been the game.

Most people have been playing the Smallmouth game with good success. (Or just heading over to the Mad to stay in the trout game)

Afternoon and Evenings are the key time right now.. Skate TINY caddis with a soft hackle dropper to cover water. Nymphing is always a good choice. A Guide’s Choice Hares Ear followed by a caddis nymph or Prince will get you going. Also do not over look small streamers like Black Nose Dace, Muddlers, ‘Buggers and the like.

Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps

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

We are going to start Updating this category little by little as we move further into the fall.

September marks the beginning of the Steelhead season in the Alley. Although the streams are low and clear for the most part this month we do start to see a few fish showing up on the beaches and making their way into the tributaries. PA will see the first fish and we will see a few of those fish showing up later in the month. Don’t get too excited as we are at least a month out (if the weather cooperates) from our fisheries being worth a trip, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Right now is a great time to start dusting off those steelhead fly boxes, 10′ nymphing rods, and signing up for those refresher two-handed casting classes. We have some exciting news coming in the near future focusing on new fly lines, flies, and rods. As usually we will keep you posted. Guiding dates are starting to fill even this far out!

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

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

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

www.madriveroutfitters.com
www.midwestflyfishingschools.com

614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 8/26/17

October 23, 2026August 26, 2017

Know anyone that is looking to get started in Fly Fishing?

Wednesday, August 30th- 7-9 p.m.

Click Here to register!

Click Here to view the full schedule of schools and classes

Warmwater

Wow! The past few weeks have been fantastic! The Smallmouth Bass fishing throughout the state has been off the charts. Although most of the streams are currently clear and low they are still higher than normal for this time of the year. This has helped us continue to do float trips. Floating is by far the best way to fish for bass as you can cover plenty of water. With these cooler nights the bass are starting to move out of Summer patterns and put on the feed. We look forward to fall all year as it is when we catch a lot of large bass. Also the Hybrid Stripers start to push up stream and feed heavy on baitfish. Pull out the 7-8wts, sink tips and big streamers for the most success. We are booking heavy for the fall right now so make sure to shoot us a call soon.

Random pig from local waters!

“Smallmouth on streamers all day long!”- Martin Lindeboom

Guide’s Day Off!

Mad River Outfitters guides Pat Kelly and Donnie Knight got out yesterday over near Dayton and crushed the smallmouth.

“Cooler weather and smallmouth are on fire! Several over 17″ and 3 over 18″….had a blast with Donnie and his Dad as well.”- Pat Kelly

If you aren’t familiar with the fantastic smallmouth fishing in the Southwest portion of the state…..let us show you. Guide Donnie Knight is available for walk-in and float trips on a variety of waters in and around Dayton.

Click Here to learn more about our Ohio Smallmouth Guide Service featuring the talents of Pat Kelly, Donnie Knight, Josh McQueen and Ryan Ratliff.

With the lower clear water the carp fishing has been fantastic as well. The Olentangy has been great for us around here and will continue into the fall as long as we do not get too much rain. Having a carp box that is diverse in color, size, weight, and fly design will prepare you for any situation. Look for feeding fish and pick a fly that fits the situation. As the boat traffic slows the lakes will also start to become very successful. Sight fishing for these fish is one of the most challenging, but rewarding adventures you can get into. Stealthy well planned tactics will get you a shot. So if you are wanting a challenge that requires accurate casting and perfect positioning give Andy a call at and he will teach you how it is done on his boat.

Ohio Buffalo!

Columbus Carp!

“Found a good amount of carp feeding while Smallie fishing…switch spools, build out a leader, pull out the carp box and game on. Finally caught my first ever Buffalo too!”- guide
Ryan Ratliff

Ponds and lakes are are also a great place to spend some time as the Largemouth and Panfish also start to prepare for winter. Bass right now are on the move out of the deep summer water holding areas and into the shallower flats and weed edges. Fishing swimming style flies on an Scientific Anglers Titan Clear tip will be our go to tactics. AEP really fires back up this time of the year giving you the best chance for big bass on the fly.

“Have been crushing bass on big streamers and poppers.”- Luke Tzagournis

Mad River

Tricos continue to be the main attraction for the morning fishing but we are also starting to see some evening activity picking up again as well.

Matching the hatch with size 20-26 and 5-7x tippet will get your started. This hatch is a first light and the spinners fall a few hours later situation. After that its a midge game. Griffiths Gnats or Splitsvilles will cover you for the midge dries with Zebra and Blood midges for the nymphs.

Heading into the evenings you will want to have plenty of caddis for the White Miller Caddis hatch. This will continue into fall so having plenty of Fat Head Moths, October Caddis, Elk Hare, Goddard and Stimulators are a must for the dries and be sure to hang a #14 green Soft Hackle behind.

Nymphs will be the usual Nitro Caddis, Flashabou, Softhackles, Sunken Caddis, Zudbug, Prince, and the crossover Hare’s Ear. The Ephrons “White Fly” will start to come into play also. Here you will want some White Wulfs and pull your Light Cahills back out.

Water is a little low and clear for consistent streamer fishing but you should always have them with you as described by our friend Bill Rice here:

“Went to the Mad river yesterday afternoon and found the river low and very clear as expected. I knew the fishing would be challenging and started with nymphs and soft hackle flies . The fish were not cooperating and I had tallied exactly 1-10” trout in 3 hours. As I worked my way downstream I switched to a white wooly bugger thinking that I could reach the slack water and bank areas better with a streamer.. Around 4:45 I cast near a submerged log in a shaded area with no more than 2’ of water and a 20” brown trout decided to eat a fake minnow. It was a good battle and I was thankful I had opted for 3x tippet rather than 4x at the start of my outing. This was the highlight of the day but I did see some action around 8:00 as the caddis flies became active .”- Bill Rice

Clearfork River

The Clear Fork is currently very low and clear. Trout fishing has been very tough the past few weeks though. The cooler night temps are helping the water temps, but these fish are currently very spooky. Light long leaders and small flies will get the job done. Take a look at the Mad River report for the rundown on hatches.

Below Pleasant Hill dam has been the most productive. This time of the year that fishery is mostly a Smallmouth bass and panfish area. Most of the reports have been coming form people camping in the area and fishing the morning and evening. Poppers, Ants, and Hoppers have been the best choice. Fishing a small streamer at first light or in the evenings can be very productive especially as we head further into Fall.

Clear Creek

For as long as we can remember this is the first Summer that we have been able to fish this many days. The creek is currently very low, but the water temps have stayed for the most part under 70 degrees. At temps above 70 we try to keep pressure to a minimum. Take a look at the Mad River Report for specific tactics. The main focus into the fall will be small streamers, caddis dries, and caddis nymphs.

Make sure to stay until dark, just like the Mad, as this is when things really get going down there.

Mad River Outfitters

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

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

www.madriveroutfitters.com
www.midwestflyfishingschools.com

614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 8/11/17

October 23, 2026August 11, 2017

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.

8/12 UPDATE- The storms on Friday have raised the level of some of the local streams. The Scioto and Olentangy are holding as of early Saturday, but lake levels are slightly high. The smaller streams are elevated for the most part, but with the forecast should drop very fast. Make sure to check with us at the shop or take a look at the gauges before heading out.

Special congrats to our good friend Bob Bailey from Columbus, Ohio. He landed this 23 1/2″ bruiser last week on the Madison River. Fish of the group for the Slide Inn Trip Shown here with one of our favorite guides anywhere….John McClure.

Should get some further pics and reports up from the Alaska Trip and the Slide Inn Trip this week as we get a few moments.

Got this note last week from our friend and customer Ann Heuerman:

Dear MRO,

Spent last week in Northern Michigan. Didn’t get to do as much fishing as I hoped due to weather and other reasons, however still was a great trip.

Fished a hopper dropper with different attractor nymphs on bottom and picked off a few tiny smallies in the Crystal River near glen arbor. Got looks from trout but none committed. No big fish, but sight fishing for creek smallmouth was tons of fun.

Then headed further north to Petoskey. Fished round lake for pike but unfortunately didn’t get any on the fly rod. My dad and I did get to fish the Boyne River for a couple hours and pulled out a rainbow on the black ant.

Additionally, before I left, got into some Ohio creek smallies as well. As always, thanks for the tips and flies!- Ann

Congrats also goes out to Rodney Zoyhofski from Canton, Ohio. He was out today (8/11/17) with MRO guide Pat Kelly and had an EPIC day of Ohio Pike fishing on the fly. He landed the 34″ above and then 20 minutes later landed the 38″ below. Pat said conditions are perfect for a change and he and Josh are looking to book trips.

Learn more about our Pike Guide Service HERE

Warmwater

The forecast looks great with only a slight chance of some popup thunderstorms from day to day. These rains will only mess up the rivers for a very short period of time if at all. Take advantage of the great flows and good temps!

The local Smallmouth Bass fishing has been fantastic. All the streams are currently fishing well. The Big Walnut and the lower Alum did bump up, but are clearing fast. The topwater popper bite has been great in the evenings and at first light. Boogle Bug Poppers and Bullets continue to be our go to flies for either personal fishing or on guide trips. The middle of the day we have been fishing streams with great success. The Murdich minnow in full size has been our go to on the Scioto along with the Peanut, Bottoms Up, and Dungeon. For the smaller streams we have been really liking the Mini Murdich, Skiddish Smolt, Little Swimmer, Clousers and Bug Eyed Buggers. Do not overlook fishing crawfish patterns as the water continues to drop and clear out.

Carp fishing also has been good, but with the smaller streams dropping you need to be on your game. Olentangy has been fishing well along with the Scioto. Delicate accurate casts to feeding fish is always a good way to burn those hours in the middle of the day when the bass fishing slows. Flies that have been producing are the Carpin Toad and the Wabbit Worm, but this game requires a very diverse fly box.

Pond/Lake fishing continues to be good if you are targeting Panfish. The Largemouth Bass are currently in their summer pattern and holding close to structure in deeper water. Utilize your Rio Lake Series Line, Orvis Depth Charge, Scientific Anglers Warm Sink 30, or SA Titan Clear Tip to keep your fly deep. Fish a Galloup style modern streamer, Super Worm, Reaper or J-Pig and your’re all set.

“Warm water bass are killing the streamers. Thanks for giving me the right colors!!”- Martin Lindeboom

Mad River

8/12 UPDATE- The River did blow out pretty well with the rains last night. Shot straight up but is dropping like a rock. The very upper reaches may fish later this afternoon and by tomorrow we should be in pretty good shape. Actually should be some good streamer water here for a couple of days.

8/11- Fishing continues to be great for this time of year. There are a few out of the ordinary factors that attribute to this…the flows are a little higher than normal for this time of the year and we have been having cool nights for the last week or so. Tricos continue to be the ticket at first light into early morning. Dry fly fishing can be hit or miss after that. If you are looking to continue to dry fly fish make sure to have a few small caddis like the Henryville Special, Goddard Caddis, and Elk Hair Caddis. Having a few Griffiths Gnats and ICSI midges are always a good idea when they start keying in on the little stuff. Dry fly fishing fires back up later in the day when the breeze starts up. The evenings will consist of Ant and Beetle fishing. The Fur Ant, Power Ant, and Hi-Vis Para Ant are all great choices.

We have also heard a few reports of the White Miller Caddis showing up in the evenings as well and they should continue into September. They can provide some excellent evening fishing and be sure to have some #14 Green Soft Hackle flies for these. Not a bad idea to trail them behind and Elk Hair or a Galloup’s Butch Caddis as well. We’ll be out over the weekend looking for these “moth like” bugs and hopefully have a hot report for next week.

If you like to be prepared with some sub-surface tactics than make sure to have plenty of caddis or nymphs with soft hackle collars. The Trophy Nymph, Guides Choice Hare’s Ear, and Swing Nymph are good generic choices. If you cant to take advantage of the caddis life cycle more closely than stock up on Holy Grails, Nitro Caddis, and Swinks Core caddis making sure you trail a Purple Haze or regular Soft Hackle behind. Cover lots of water mixing dead drift and swinging these flies.

Clearfork River

The Clear Fork is currently very low on either side of the Pleasant Hill Dam. Although the stream temps are doing very well for this time of the year these low flows can make it hard for fish to recover. If you do plan to fish this creek make sure you have a net to corral the fish in as it recovers from bing caught. The net allows you to keep the fish wet in the water while you grab the quick photo for these fishing reports and take out the hook. If you do need to handle these fish make sure to imply slip an open hand under their belly to support the entire body and then get them back into the water as soon as possible. Once they start kicking in the net slip them out into a slow flow and let them find some cover.

The name of the game in the middle of summer is Trico dries early in the day followed by midges and then switching to caddis. As the day progresses into the evening look for fish keying in on Ants and Beetles. Specific patterns consist of Trico thorax and A.K’s Trico Dun with 6 & 7x tippet for the morning hatch, Griffith Gnats and ICSI Midges for the mid morning and then Goddard Caddis, Henryville Special, and Elk Hair Caddis. For Ants we like the Fur Ant, Power Ant, and HiVis Para Ants when we are on the water. Beetles need to be Rainys Foam Beetle, Flash Beetle, and even a small Humpy. Fish these into the evenings when the Thermals start pushing some wind around.

Clear Creek

The creek is currently low, but still higher than normal. The big news for this creek in South Eastern Ohio is the water temps. We cannot remember the last time Clear Creek was in the 60s for the better part of the summer. With the temps coming next week things should continue to be good. We could use some rain though or the flows will start falling. If you head down that way make sure to have plenty of small caddis like 16-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Henryville Specials and Micro Stimulators. Tricos continue to be the main morning hatch though. Having a good mix of these tiny Mayflies in sizes 20-24 and plenty of Rio Suppleflex 5-7x tippet are a must if you are fishing in the morning. Those caddis flies mentioned earlier and a few added midges will keep the dry fly game going all day.

If nymphing is your game then fish a caddis larva or pupa like the Nitro or Swinks Core Caddis with either a Soft Hackle or tiny Pheasant Tail as the trailer. Although Caddis are King right now you can catch fish on midge larva, Swing Nymphs, and emergers like RS2’s. Swinging Soft Hackles is also a great option any time. We like to start with a Bead Head Soft Hackle, Swing Nymph, Trophy Nymph or Guides Choice and then follow these with a smaller Soft Hackle or Purple Haze.

Keep your Stream Thermometer handy to check the water temps and enjoy this great Metro Park.

Mad River Outfitters

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

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

www.madriveroutfitters.com
www.midwestflyfishingschools.com

614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 7/29/17

October 23, 2026July 29, 2017

The Alaska Group is headed home today and the Montana trip leaves tomorrow. An exciting time of year around here!

The July 2017 Alaska Group with hosts Jerry Darkes and Josh McQueen- hop on over to Facebook…we’ve started an album there and will be adding pics as they come in!

Warmwater

Well the weather continues to be the main topic and issue. We have had one of the wettest July’s that we can remember. The forecasts seem to be changing by the hour…the good news is that it has changed for the good finally. The rain predicted for the past few days did not amount to much so the streams are dropping fast! Look at the Olentangy to fish, but will still have some stain. They could decide to open the dam at any time, but it does not appear that it is needed. The Scioto is actually coming down also and should fish well by mid week. Now is the time to be fishing poppers like Boogle Bugs, Bass Poppers, Pencils, and other Bass Hair Bugs. If you do not find any fish looking up cover some water with streamers and the SA Titan Clear Tip (our favorite smallmouth line by FAR). Streamers to carry are Bottoms Up, Peanuts, Modern Deceivers, and other patterns by Kelly Galloup.

Pond and lake fishing has continued to be great, but look for the Largemouth Bass to be found deep close to vegetation or other structure. Fishing a floating/diving fly like a Swimmy Jimmy or Todd’s Wiggle Minnow consistently get the job done when fished with a long sink tip or full sinking line like the Orvis Depth Charge, SA Sink 30 Warm or the Rio InTouch Deep 7.

With the rivers shaping up look for our guiding schedule to fill up fast. Make sure to contact the shop and put in for those sick/vacation days at work. Pat, Josh and Ryan are always ready to get you on a boat and out there fishing Ohio!!!

MRO Fly Tying Manager and Guide Ryan Ratliff was supposed to teach the On-River Seminar: Smallmouth Bass last weekend but wound up having to postpone due to the high muddy water. Here is what he did instead:

“These shots are from last Sunday where the only thing that wasnt muddy was some ponds. Tony Makris and I hiked back deep into Ohio Power/AEP lands to a pond I haven’t fished in 15 years. The Bass where deep from the Thunderstorms, but the BIG panfish were looking up eating bugs getting knocked off the trees by the rain. Boogle bugs and Double Barrel Poppers were the ticket all day. I had to introduce a few fish to Tenkara also!”- Ryan

No better combination- Bluegill and Tenkara!

Mad River

The Mad has continued to produce very well with the higher than usual water levels. Remember in most situations the river will be fishing within 24 hours after a rain event and even sooner if you are looking to throw streamers.

This time of the year streamer fishing is not the usual talk so many people have taken advantage of the levels and found aggressive fish eating most of the day. Looking ahead at the forecast and we will be back into typical summer tactics.

For the up coming days focus on Tricos in the morning along with Midges and Caddis. During the middle of the day swinging Soft Hackles or nymphing is a good place to start. Into the afternoon it will be a Beetle, Ant, and Cricket game. Fish are very cooperative right now so fish your favorite stretch covering water.

The forecast is for bright days so the best times are going to be early and late in the day. If you need help figuring out the Mad shoot us a call and we will get you on the calendar for a guide trip.

Clearfork River

The water temps have been much better than usual. The higher flows have also been keeping the trout happy. Like on the Mad early and late have been the key.

Look for Tricos early at first light and then pull out the caddis and midges. Ants and beetles have been the ticket in the evenings along with some hoppers along grassy banks.

The upper has been the key for trout, but the lower when conditions are favorable have been better for smallies and rock bass. For the warmwater fish poppers and big hoppers around overhanging brush is the key. Also streamers and covering water has produced good numbers.

Clear Creek

There has been a little more rain down south than in the city so the creek is currently high. Look for it to fish by early to mid week.

The water temps have been great for this time of the year also. Look for early morning Tricos then switch over to tiny caddis and midges. The evenings will produce some great Ant and Beetle fishing as well.

Mad River Outfitters

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

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

www.madriveroutfitters.com
www.midwestflyfishingschools.com

614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 7/21/17

October 23, 2026July 21, 2017

There was a small window this past week where the streams settled down and the Smallmouth bass cooperated. The popper bite has continued to be the ticket once the water starts to clear. Streamer fishing also is never a bad idea. The Scioto and Olentangy are still not in ideal levels. Watching the flow charts and storms have been a daily process. Some of the larger rivers are still high from our big rains and with the forecast they do not look to be settling down any time soon. Check with us here at the shop for day to day conditions, but the extended forecast looks dry so far. If you do find some good water tie on a Boogle Bug popper or a Peanut streamer and start covering water.

Pond Largemouth Bass and Panfishing has continued to be great and with the high water and rain most people are hitting the ponds. Early morning poppers have been the ticket with sinking lines and J-Pigs, Super Worms, and Fathead Minnows get the job done during the day. Panfish consistently have been taken on a small Boogle bug popper with a Crappie Special or other small streamer dropper.

Pike and Smallmouth guided trips continue to be awesome when the water levels allow so make sure to get some time set aside and book a trip.

Russ Kessler on a guide trip with Pat Kelly. His personal best Ohio Pike on the fly!

Our good friend and great customer John Raisbeck from Dayton, Ohio sent us this pic and note this week:

“Here’s one, among many, for Strawberry Blonde. Gave one to three guests at Zanesfield today and all caught at least one trophy fish. This fly’s on a run! Thanks.”- John Raisbeck

Not familiar with the Strawberry Blonde? It’s one of our best selling streamers of all-time. Killer!!!

Click Here to check it out

Mad River

The lower river had a slight stain this week making for the early morning streamer bite to be fantastic. Stripping small weighted streamers is the best numbers game while throwing meat over 4″ with move those 20″+ fish.

The upper river is a Terrestrial game as usual with the Fur Ant, Splitsville, and Ant Acid the most productive. With the hot humid nights the Tricos should be out very soon, but we just haven’t had the chance to give it a look before work. Should start seeing them here in good numbers, especially in the upper river.

Remember that the Trico game is a morning thing. Need to be on the water as the sun is coming up in order to catch the hatch. The hatch will go for a bit and then shortly after the duns are finished, the spinner fall starts. Be sure to have some 7X Tippet!!!

There is rain forecasted for this weekend which will mean that early Saturday and maybe late Sunday will be the best bets, but next week looks great.

Clearfork River

The upper River is currently low, but again with the forecast things look like they are going to change Saturday. Early Saturday will be the ticket as will Mid next week. Terrestrials like Daves Hoppers, Morish Hoppers, and Fur Ants are the go to flies. Caddis dries like the Elk Hare Caddis, Goddard Caddis and Sunken Caddis need to be in your boxes.

They have just over the past couple days started to drop the flows on the lower river, but with the rain it will be hard to say what the rest of the weekend will look like. Mostly Smallmouth Bass and Panfish have been the ticket, but there are a few trout being caught on buggers and small dries.

Clear Creek

After the heavy rains and levels over 10′ things have shifted a little making some new cover and pushing out some of the summer vegetation. The flows and temps are looking great for this time of the year. Look for early morning Trico fishing and Caddis throughout the rest of the day. Stock up on #22 Pearl Butt Trico and Sunken Caddis and you will be good for the day.

There is some rain in the forecast that will mess things up for the weekend, but you might be able to get in a little fishing early morning and switch over to streamers as the rain starts.

Mad River Outfitters

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

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

www.madriveroutfitters.com
www.midwestflyfishingschools.com

614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 7/15/17

October 23, 2026July 15, 2017

Upcoming Classes:

Wednesday, July 19th- Knots and Leaders Class- Click Here

Sunday, July 23rd- On-River Seminar- Smallmouth Bass with Ryan Ratliff- Click Here

Monday, July 24th- Basic Knots and Rigging Class- Click Here

Wednesday, July 26th- Basic Fly Casting Clinic- Click Here

Upcoming Trips:

“Alaska Sampler” Trip at the Naknek River Camp with hosts Jerry Darkes and Josh McQueen- July 22nd- 29th

Montana Trip to the Slide Inn with hosts Brian Flechsig and Kelly Galloup- July 30th- August 6th

Stay tuned as we should be posting reports and updates from both of these trips as they go!

Warmwater

As you can expect, most of the streams in the region are pretty well blown out here for a bit.

We’ll be checking things out here the next couple of days and should get a more detailed report up on Monday with the prognosis.

In the meantime, local lakes and ponds have been where folks are concentrating their efforts. Been hearing that the topwater bite has been good to excellent.

Check back early next week for more.

Mad River

The Mad was actually in decent shape until the last round of storms on Thursday. It shot way up…but is coming down quickly.

The upper section should be pretty well fishable tomorrow and the lower will probably be good streamer water. By Monday things should be pretty well back to normal.

Reports from last weekend and earlier in the week were shockingly good Many fish caught on nymphs and a handful on terrestrials.

Caddis larva and pupa will be the focus for under the surface. A good ol’ Green Caddis Larva #14-16 trailed by a Soft Hackle, Nitro Pupa or Swink’s Core will do the trick. Green Copper John’s have also been producing as well.

For the surface, Caddis and Terrestrials are the way to to. Ants and especially beetles have been producing some nice fish!!! Elk Hairs, Butch Caddis and Goober Caddis have been doing well on the caddis front, especially early or late in the day. No solid reports of Tricos yet but they should start showing up….and remember to be on the water when the sun comes up for these.

We have some guide trips out next week so should have more to report. If you get out, let us know how you do!!!

Clearfork River

The Upper Clearfork is coming into shape and should be fishable tomorrow. Might be a little stained and good streamer water! Otherwise, pretty much the same as the Mad. Caddis and terrestrials.

Still a few lingering Light Cahills around in the evenings but most surface activity has been on ants and beetles during the day and caddis in the evening. Some tiny little mayflies around in the evenings as well but not much feeding activity on them.

The Lower stretch in the park is way out right now and will probably be a few days before fishable.

Clear Creek

Clear Creek is currently high and muddy due to the rains this week and will be a few days before it fishes. We’ll let you know!

Mad River Outfitters

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

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

www.madriveroutfitters.com
www.midwestflyfishingschools.com

614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 7/3/17

October 23, 2026July 3, 2017

**4th of July SALE started today and runs through Sunday!**

25-50% OFF Seasonal and Clearance merchandise from brands like Simms, Sage, Scott, Orvis, Howler Brothers, Patagonia and more!

Please remember that we are CLOSED tomorrow for the holiday but the website is ALWAYS OPEN!

Click Here for the SALE page- all items listed

Click Here for the Men’s SALE page

Click Here for the Women’s SALE page

Warmwater

Smallmouth fishing continues to be good to great. We have had some great guide trips over the past few weeks. We are focusing on the smaller streams in the area though. With the Scioto and Olentangy high the Darbys and others have been a popular choice. many of these smaller waters have heavy canoe, kayak, and tubing activity though. Getting to the water at first light or staying to last light will give you a few good hours to yourself.

The main focus for us guiding has been topwater flies. Boogle bugs in various colors are our top choice with Todd’s Wiggle Minnow and either Whit’s or Dahlberg diving bugs as close seconds. Streamers are always a good choice if fish are reluctant to coming to the surface. Skiddish Smolt, Mojo Minnow, and Clousers are top choices for deep fast water while Mini Murdich Minnows, Woolhead Sculpins, and EP Minnows are great for skinny water. Dont over look big flies too. For these you will need 7-8wts and the SA Titan Clear Tip line. We like to throw the Modern Deceivers, Little Swimmers, Articulated Fat Heads, Peanuts, Bottoms Up and Big Fish Deceivers. These same flies are a great choice for pond Largemouth Bass also. Add in a few Grim Reapers, J-Pigs, and Superworms to round out your fly box.

Mad River

The rain from Friday night put the river at an unfishable level for Saturday. Sunday provided clearing water and great streamer opportunities. Some really great fish were caught over the weekend on both streamers and nymphs.

Looking into the rest of the week focus on terrestrials, caddis, and nymphs. Make sure to have plenty of ants especially our favorites Ant Acid, Power Ant, and Fur Ant. Fish these with a Sunken Caddis or Sunken Ant dropper to cover water. There are a few “Summer Olives” about, but the fish are not consistently targeting them. For these have a few #22 BWOs just in case. We haven’t seen much evidence of Tricos yet, but now is the time to start dusting them off and keep handy.

With the typical Summer storms in the forecast it is always a good idea to have a few streamers with you. Dirty Hippies, Skiddish Smolts, and Barely Legals round out your typical Wooly buggers. Usually the water is only off color for a few hours and drops quickly. Keep an eye on the gauge or shoot us a call for current conditions.

Clearfork River

Both sections of the stream are blown. The upper should clear out in a day or two under normal situations. There are some storms in the forecast though. It is hard to predict what the Army Core will release out of the dam so keep an eye on the gauges. Fish hoppers, poppers, and streamers below the Pleasant Hill Dam for a mixed bag of trout, bass, and panfish. In the upper stream you will be fishing caddis, ants, hoppers, and beetles.

Clear Creek

The bottom half of the state did not get as much rain so the creek is currently very low and warm. Focus on the early mornings fishing caddis, midges, and ants. Fish an Elk Hair caddis with either a Sunken Caddis or Ant as the dropper for the most productivity. There is some rain forecasted late into the week so keep an eye on the gauge, but we will keep you posted.

Mad River Outfitters

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

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

www.madriveroutfitters.com
www.midwestflyfishingschools.com

614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 6/23/17

October 23, 2026June 23, 2017

Warmwater

Rain Rain Rain!!! Things do not look really good going into the weekend and probably into mid week. Focus your attention to the area ponds and lakes. Especially focus on the waters that do not have large streams feeding the lake. There is a cold front moving in that will put the bass off for a day or two. Panfish usually do not get put off too much by a cold front. Focus on the lake side of coves and back bays that are not muddy.

As for gear you will want 3-5wts for panfish and 6-8wts for bass. Fishing an intermediate sinking line like a Scientific Anglers Titan Clear Tip is a great choice for both bass and panfish. Small streamers, poppers, and nymphs are our go to’s for the Bluegills and Crappies. Don’t over look the popper dropper rig on a 2x leader. For bass you will want flies that have lots of movement and sink slowly. This coming cold front will put off the bass popper bite, but fishing a J-Pig, Reaper, or SuperWorm off weed edges and drop off will produce the big fish. For those who usually are trout bound take you rclousers, buggers, and other streamers to your local lake and pond and have fun.

Mad River

The river is currently on the raise, but it will drop fast. Look for there to be some streamer fishing on Saturday and Sunday with everything starting to clear out sometime Sunday. Into next week small streamers is a good choice early and late if you need to fill your trout streamer cravings. For those looking to dry fly fish focus on midges and caddis early and throughout the day then switch to terrestrials in the afternoon and evening. Your boxes should consist of Fur Ants, Ant Acids, Power Ants, and Splitsvilles for ants patterns. Elk Hair Caddis, Goddard, Henryville Specials, Soft Hackles,Swing Nymphs, Flashabou Caddis, and Downed Caddis will keep you stocked for the caddis game. Do not overlook fishing Dave’s Crickets, Fat Alberts, and Inch Worm patterns.

This weekend if the water levels are ok to wade then pull out your 6-8wts, Rio Streamer Tips, and the biggest flies you can throw. Make sure to have a wading staff with you if you are not familiar with the flows. Call the shop if you are not sure of safe wadding levels.

Into next week the Terrestrial game will require a 4-6wt 2-4x tippet, floatant and Loon Easy Dry. Midges and other little dries will require 4-6x specialty dry fly leaders like Rio Suppleflex and 3-4wts. You will need to have your technical Reach Casts, Arial Mends, and accuracy game well tuned. If you need help with these cast make sure to get a private casting class or book your guide trip with that focus.

Clearfork River

The upper river is blown. We will let you know when things start to shape up. The lower will likely start to raise as the Army Core starts to see the lake levels raise.

Clear Creek

Click Here to see our line-up of Carp Flies

The creek is blown and will not likely fish till next week. We will keep you posted as things change.

Mad River Outfitters

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

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

www.madriveroutfitters.com
www.midwestflyfishingschools.com

614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 6/17/17

October 23, 2026June 17, 2017

Smallmouth Bass has continued to be the main talk in the shop. Just before the rain this week the Scioto was just starting to fish great. We will see how long it takes to come back down to safe levels. If you fish gear and like to float the river then that will be the best option into early next week.

The Olentangy was also starting to fish very well. We personally have not been able to catch fish on poppers, but streamers have been the main ticket. The river is currently muddy, but should fish by Sunday or Monday as they have just stopped releasing water at Delaware Dam.

Matt Darrah was out with MRO guide Josh McQueen earlier this week and broke his personal best…..twice!!

If you are looking to fish close to the city this weekend then you will want to focus on Alum Creek, Little Darby, Big Walnut and other small creeks in the area. There are many parks scattered throughout the area to access these small waters. Find your local park and explore the water. You might find some great fishing right in your “backyard.” The water temps are up making wet wading a good choice for those who look forward to this time every year. There also have been many people out taking advantage of the warm water floating, swimming, and tubing so keep an eye out when casting.

As for rod size we like to throw our 6-8wts with aggressive floaters or sink-tips. There are some great rods in the shop for all budgets so make sure to give us a call or stop in and we will help you get the best rod for your situation. Top picks for lines would be the Rio Big Nasty and Smallmouth or the Scientific Anglers Titan Taper and Clear Tip. If you are not building your own leaders than either sign up for the Knots and Leader class or pick up some Rio Bass or Scientific Anglers Hard Mono Leaders. Flies would be any of the Modern Streamers especially the Bottoms-Up in all colors, Boogieman, Clousers in all colors, Peanut, and Sump.

Above: “Conner’s Uncle gave him the ultimate Christmas & Birthday present of a Private Warm Water School. Conner and his Dad spent the morning learning about everything Smallmouth. After a little knots and rigging we headed to their home water to apply what they learned. We worked on casting, how to fish poppers and streamers, and how to unsnag a fly. The water was still a little off color, but Chris did manage to catch a few small fish. It is always great to educate a father and son together so they can make memories of their own!” – Guide and Instructor Ryan Ratliff

Education is the Cornerstone of our business. In all aspects….it’s what we do!!

Above: Lindsey Kittle and her brother Lee were out with Andy aboard the Fly-N-Carp last weekend. Fishing was exceptional.

Carp fishing is of course in full bloom….as are the local mulberries. Great time to get out and chase carp on the fly in the local streams or lakes. They are starting to eat just about anything so mulberries, crayfish and nymphs should be in your box.

Mad River

We need some water. For the most part the major mayfly hatches are finished and we have moved into the typical summer pattern. It’s time to start thinking Caddis and Terrestrials.

You may still see some Sulphers, a stray Slate Drake or Brown Drake but probably limited to the upper river at this point. You may also see some tiny little mayflies but they usually don’t amount to much as far as the fish are concerned.

Combine lower water and high heat with heavy canoe and kayak traffic makes for a tough day on the water. If you are going to fish during the day, which is not adviseable, plan on tons of canoes getting in your way.

There is midge and Caddis activity as typical. Fishing a Griffiths Gnat or other midge dry can be a great choice when the fish are keying in on the little stuff. As for the Caddis a variety of sized Elk Hair Caddis are a staple, but make sure to have a good variety of colors and sizes. Galloup’s new Goober Caddis has also become a shop favorite.

As for the terrestrials we always carry Galloup’s Ant acid in both colors. Others to have also are the Fur Ant, Sinking Ant, and HiVis Para-Ant. When the fish are picky a Splitsville Flying Ant is hard to beat. Don’t forget about the Japanese Beetles and Dave’s Cricket also. Drop a Soft hackle or Drowned Caddis behind these and you are ready for anything.

Che Brindle on a float this past Tuesday with MRO guide Josh McQueen on the Mad. Although the fishing has slowed a bit, you can certainly still catch fish if you are patient and toss the right flies. Fish early and fish late….avoid mid-day.

Clearfork River

The upper Clear Fork is a great choice, but as with the Mad the mayfly hatches are pretty much over. We have still been seeing some Light Cahills in the late evenings but the past few days this has slowed up and not enough to really get the fish going.

We would suggest fishing Midges and Caddis, but keep an eye out for fish raising to terrestrials. Fishing a Cricket or Beetle with a Swing Nymph behind and cover water is a great option.

The lower river is a great place to fish a bigger terrestrial like a Fat Albert with a caddis pupa like a Soft Hackle or Nitro Caddis behind. There is a mix bag down there and just about anything will eat a big Terrestrial on top or settle for the nymph. Focusing on Smallies with poppers and small streamers is also a great option also.

Clear Creek

The creek is super low right now. Focus on small Caddis dries and Soft hackles. With the higher water temps make sure to focus on the early mornings and land fish quickly.

Fishing terrestrials also is a great option. Flies are the same as for the Mad: carry Galloup’s Ant acid in both colors. Others to have also are the Fur Ant, Sinking Ant, and HiVis Para-Ant.

When the fish are picky a Splitsville Flying Ant is hard to beat. Don’t forget about the Japanese Beetles and Dave’s Cricket also. Drop a Soft hackle or Drowned Caddis behind these and your ready for anything.

Mad River Outfitters

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

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

www.madriveroutfitters.com
www.midwestflyfishingschools.com

614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 6/10/17

October 23, 2026June 10, 2017

Fishing in the city is still limited to the smaller streams as the Scioto and Olentangy are still off. The fish are eating if you are familiar with the rivers and take along a wading staff. The conventional gear guys are fishing and doing well. The smaller streams have been producing though and the fish are taking flies well. Most of us have been fishing streamers, but make sure to bring your poppers as they have also been producing. With all of the warm weather we have had this spring we are all glad to finally be fishing poppers. Boogle bugs are our go to for poppers so make sure to have plenty as they are going fast!

Other flies to be well stocked with are the Murdich Minnows, Skiddish Smolt, Clousers, Nancy P, Bottoms Up, Dungeons, Peanut Envys, and Tequeely. These streamers will require a 6-8wt pared up with the SA Titan Clear tip and 12-16lb Rio Bass tippet. Stop in the shop or shoot us a call if you want some more information about Smallmouth bass fishing. We have been busy guiding for Smallies so make sure to get your trips planned now. Smallmouth fishing will continue to be great as we get into summer.

“Few good pics from guide trip with Alex. Smallmouth fishing has been excellent! Popper bite was great all day.”- MRO Guide Pat Kelly

Pond fishing also has been fantastic. Largemouth Bass are out of their post-spawn funk and are looking up for a popper or diving fly. The panfish are finishing up with their spawn and will continue to readily take poppers and dry flies. Largemouth Bass flies are much like Smallmouth flies, but we like to fish flies with more marabou in the still waters. A sink-tip line and flies like a Swimmy Jimmy, Articulated Fathead Minnow, Dirty Hippie, Ted Brook Trout, and the Peanut are the go-to’s. Boogle Bug poppers are always a good choice also.

The BIG news is…….it’s Carp season! Carp fishing has been picking up as they are off the spawn and on the feed. Great time to get out and chase these magnificent gamefish all-over Ohio. Andy has been guiding out of the Fly-n-Carp for a few weeks now and doing well. Reports are starting to pour in from locals doing well. Carp fishing will remain strong throughout the summer but don’t miss the incredible Mulberry action. The “hatch” should be good through the 1st week or so of July.

“In between the low temps, clouds, threatening rain and wind still had a great day on the water a few nice carp where caught “I believe one was Tom’s personal best and Johnny is very new to carpin on the fly”.- MRO Guide Andy Jensen

Sunday, July 2nd at the Muzzy Lakes Club with guide Andy Jensen

9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.

Register Online HERE

Mad River

The Epic Brown Drake fishing has slowed way down and with the high temps in the coming days what bugs that are left will be well into the night. There are still some small Sulfurs and Light Cahills around in the evenings. The best dry fly fishing on bugs right now will be in the upper river, well above Urbana. Should still see decent numbers of Sulphers and Cahills but the Drakes will be sporadic at best and if they happen at all, it will be well after dark.

If you are looking to get out in the next few days make sure to have a very diverse dry fly box. Terrestrials are the next category to either dust off or add to the box. Earlier in the day most fish will be keying in on midges and caddis and will transition to the beetles, crickets, and ants into the afternoons.

Flies to have will be Griffiths Gnats, Goddard Caddis, Elk Hair, Henryville Special, Ant Acid, Fur Ant, Splitsville Flying Ant, and Dave’s Cricket. We like to drop a small unweighted nymph behind these dries and skate them on the end of the drift. Other than Matt Supinski’s Statute of Liberty technique, Tenkara is the best way to mimic a Caddis on the surface.

Streamer fishing takes a back seat for the summer, but if you just need a fix and the Smallmouth waters are not cooperating then focus on the first and last light times with smaller natural streamers. Also skating a mouse at night can be a lot of fun.

“Fished the middle river on Tuesday hoping to take advantage of sulphur, caddis activity and had decent success with nymphs and soft hackles in riffle areas. In the late afternoon I decided try something different and switched to a Grizzly wooly bugger and hit the banks in medium current areas. I was a bit surprised that the trout had larger items on the menu along with the size 16 insects. I landed two 12-13” Browns and this 20” beauty.”- Bill Rice

Clearfork River

The upper river is currently low and clear. There have been some great reports of hatches and fish. Truth is, the Upper Clearfork has probably been the best trout fishing in the state the past week or so. Dry fly fishing in the evenings especially has been fantastic…..Brown Drakes, Light Cahills and Caddis have been the fare.

As the water temps climb though here the Oxygen levels start to fall due to many issues. We try to focus on fishing early mornings or at night in the summer. The hatches have continued to be good with Sulfurs and Light Cahills being the main evening and caddis the morning and mid-day. There also was some great Brown Drake hatches, but they have seemed to slow way down.

The lower river flows are good and the mixed bag of fish has been great. If you are down there camping make sure to bring the poppers, beetles, ants, and small streamers.

Clear Creek