ohio fly fishing guides

Check out Alex’s Glo Drake Spinner HERE

The Mad continues to be a bit perplexing here this Spring. We are certainly catching fish, just not in the manner that we are accustomed to. The hatches have been “off” this year and the number of rising fish has been way down. Not sure why but surely has something to do with the strange, cold Spring we had. As stated, we are still catching fish, but most have been on nymphs and soft hackles and a handful on streamers when the water has been right.

The BIG news as we speak is that we have Brown Drakes and hopefully the next week or so will make up for the lack of dry fly fishing. Hatches have been decent in the lower parts of the river and will be moving upstream over the next week or so. No reports of huge spinner falls yet so the fishing the next week or so could be fantastic to EPIC.

Be sure to have some Brown Drake nymphs if fishing in the afternoon before the hatch. Then around 8:00 p.m. start looking. Make sure to look up at the sky as well for the spinners. Those of you who have experienced this before, you know what we are talking about!!! If you love catching big trout on big dries, drop everything and go fishing in the next week and plan to stay until dark or after.

By the way, the “top secret” fly that our guides have been hoarding the past few seasons is now available to the public:

The
Glo Drake Spinner actually has a Glow-in-the-Dark parachute post wing.
Charge it up with a flashlight or better yet a UV light and you can see
it on the water…..even after dark.

This fly is a MUST have if you are chasing Drakes.

You
could also experience a buffet of different bugs starting in the early
evening, depending on where you are on the river. Plenty of Sulphers
still around, both #16 and #18 but will most likely be an upper river
event for the next few weeks. Mostly an evening thing although on an
overcast day you could see them hatching all day. Also a few March
Browns still around as well as some Light Cahills. The spinner falls
though have been about the only activity that has been getting the fish
interested. We haven’t seen strong hatches of either bug but the
spinners have been falling right before dark and some fish have been
paying attention.

Decent
numbers of caddis flitting around during the day as well and wouldn’t
hesitate to throw an Elk Hair or a Galloup’s Butch Caddis #14-16 to try
and bring fish up. They have been eating pupa in the afternoons so no
big secret that a green soft hackle will produce fish…..as always on
the Mad.

All
that being said, our focus will on the Drakes for the next week or
more. Brian will be out on the water two or three times at least next
week and will surely update on Social Media as he often does.

Stay tuned and let us know what you find out there. Nothing like Drake season!!!!

Clearfork River

The
upper river has been producing very well. Good hatches of March
Browns, Light Cahill and Sulphurs. No word yet of any Drakes but should
be any moment. These will mostly be in the Upper stretch and can provide for some amazing evening fishing just like the Mad.

Caddis
have also been active and they make for a great choice while you are
waiting for a mayfly hatch. Mid-morning can be a great time to skate an
Elk Hair Caddis or Stimulator to see if you get a response. Trail one
of these with a Soft Hackle and you will usually find a few fish. The
lower river has also produced some fish, but the warm water fish have
been more willing to cooperate. Water levels are slightly high
providing good streamer water. If you make a trip up that way make sure
to let us know if you see some bugs hatching or stream conditions.
Mohican State Park offers some camping opportunities right on the river
and there are many other family activities.

Forecast:
Expect
Sulphurs and Caddis to be the main hatches. We are on Brown Drake
watch also. Keep an eye out for these big mayflies late in the
evenings. Make sure to have your dry fly box stocked and ready for
anything. Keep a few ants and beetles handy also as the thermals start
to pick up and drop a few bugs into the water. Flies to have are the
Quick Sight ant, Hi-Vis Para Ant, and Ant Acid for terrestrials. For
mayflies Sulphurs are king. Have plenty of the Thorax, Compara Dun,
Parachutes and Spinners. Caddis will be Elk Hair, Stimulators, Butch
Caddis, Goddard, and Henryville Special. For Drakes take a look at the
new Glo Drake Spinner, Compara Drake, Para Drake, Brown Drake nymph…they
are all good.

Have a few March Browns, and Lt Cahils also, but those are coming to an end in the Upper river. Cahills will continue in the lower stretch for a few more weeks, especially in the evenings.

Clear Creek

www.madriveroutfitters.com

Earlier
last week the creek was in great shape but producing very few quality
fish. Most trout were taken on small Hares Ear or Pheasant Tail
nymphs. Midge and small caddis dries also have produced. Smallmouth
Bass have also started to show up. Striping a streamer has been the
most successful for these fish. Water temps continue to be great.

Forecast:
The
storms have put a damper on the creek this week, but looking ahead
Saturday should start good streamer fishing for those who know the creek
well. Early next week will be your best bet. Look for Sulphurs, Lt
Cahills, and caddis to be your dry flies if the fish are keying in on
them. Fishing a small streamer can produce trout and a few Smallies.
If you are visiting the Hocking Hills area and want a chance at a trout
(despite the size) Clear Creek is worth a quick detour. This time of
the year there are many other opportunities down there for Smallmouth in
the Hocking or Largemouth in the numerous area lakes.

Mad River Outfitters/Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Fly Fishing Guides, Hosted Fly Fishing Travel, Schools, Classes and more!

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363

[email protected]

Fishing Reports- 9/30/17

October 23, 2026September 30, 2017

* 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.

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

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

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

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

www.madriveroutfitters.com
www.midwestflyfishingschools.com

614-451-0363

Fishing Reports- 9/2/17

October 23, 2026September 2, 2017

* 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.

Harvey remnants have brought up the flows or blown out a few of the local streams. Despite a minor wrench in a few of our plans for this weekend we are quickly reminded of what many people are going through down south…Our thoughts and prayers are with our many friends, customers and fellow Americans down in Texas.

* Also a friendly reminder that we will be closed on Monday to celebrate Labor Day with friends and family. Back in the shop on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. Have a great Holiday!

Warmwater

Most of the local streams are showing a slight bump in flows while some are actually blown out. Make sure to call the shop or check the flow charts before heading down to the river. The Olentangy and Scioto are totally controlled by the Army Core of Engineers. Look for a possible bump in flows once the natural runoff tapers off. With how dry the past month has been any bump in flow should not last very long. Most of the Smallie waters should be back fishable by Sunday or Monday. Into next week keep an eye on the predicted storms into Tues. Once the weather stabilizes look for the fishing to be fantastic. We like to start pulling out the bigger streamers and loading up the 7-8wts as Summer slips away. Especially on the bigger water we are always looking for those Hybrid Stripers to start pushing up out of the lakes chasing shad. The smaller creeks will still allow those that only have lighter 4-5wts. On the light rods focus on smaller poppers and more trout sized streamers.

Carp fishing has continued to be great and once the flows settle this will continue. Have a diverse fly box and plenty Flouro tippet. This game requires delicate casts and presentation to feeding fish. If you are new to this game make sure to stop by or give us a call. Andy has been excited about the boat traffic slowing down on the lakes allowing for easier poling of his carp rig the “Flying Carp.”

Pike and Smallmouth fishing continues to be great and the guys have been putting clients on fish consistently! With the weather change our calendars have been filling fast so make sure to give us a call with your prospective dates.

Rodney Zoyhofski was out with Pat yesterday…..again! He can’t get enough of Ohio Pike on the Fly!

New! The Award Winning Surface Seaducer Double Barrel Poppers are now in stock!

Click Here to check them out along with all of the other great products from Flymen Fishing Company

Mad River

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

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

* 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.

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- 7/21/17

October 23, 2026July 21, 2017

* 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 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- 6/23/17

October 23, 2026June 23, 2017

* 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.

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

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- 6/10/17

October 23, 2026June 10, 2017

* 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.

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

The creek is VERY low currently. The temps are OK, but with the 90’s forecasted look for the water temps to climb quickly. Thick morning midge hatches and then small caddis into the afternoon. Sulfurs, Cahills, and a few Brown Drakes have been hatching, but the fish are keyed in on Midges and Caddis as usual. Dead drifting and swinging a Drowned Caddis, Core Caddis, Sunken Spinners, and Swing Nymphs will produce. Make sure to have a thermometer with you to make sure your not fishing water in the 70 degree range. These warm temps have low Oxygen levels and the fish have a hard time recovering. Keep them in the water and fight them quickly.

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- 5/26/17

October 23, 2026May 26, 2017

* 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.

***The rain has been the most common topic here in the shop over the past couple weeks. We have been getting a small window of good conditions before the rain raises the flows. Looking into the weekend… The rain amounts have been changing by the hour it seems, but The other topic over the past couple weeks have been Brown Drakes! More about all of this below.

Warmwater

The local streams have been off colored for the most part. The Darby, Walnut, and Blacklick have been the first to clear out and produce. It seems like we will not be fishing the Scioto till July…hopefully not, but we will let you know when it comes into shape. If the predicted rain totals continue to decrease then focusing on the Big Walnut and Darby Creeks will be the best bet. These streams might fish as early as Saturday evening, but most likely Sunday and Monday. Shoot us a call Saturday as this can change. Other Smallmouth options around the state have been great. If you want to get in on a Smallie float make sure to get your trip booked soon as our days off are filling up!

The status in the local ponds is mixed. Most of the bass have or are currently spawning. In the smaller waters the panfish are moving to the beds also. Fishing these ponds have been the best bet as they are seldom muddy and consistently produce fish. Fishing poppers have started producing and will only get better. Wet flies, streamers, nymphs, and San Juans or Squirmys keep the panfish and bass on the line. 4-5wt fly rods are what we prefer for panfish while 6-8wts are our go-to rods for throwing big bass flies.

Pike fishing has continued to be excellent. Again the flows have been a little problem, but we are still putting clients on fish. Pat and Josh have been seeing some great fish as you can see on our earlier posts.

Ohio Pike fishing has been good to excellent and will stay strong. Trips booking now!

Mad River

It is great that we have a spring creek so close to Columbus. Despite the rain levels this Spring the Mad River has a very short runoff time. In most situations water levels drop quickly and start to clear out 24 hours or less! Combine the runoff time and the amount of bugs we have been seeing this Spring the Mad has been treating us very well. Dry Fly fishing continues to be great.

There have been a few reports of BROWN DRAKES, but the Sulfurs and Light Cahills have been the main focus. Midges and Caddis are the go to in the mornings while the Sulfurs and Cahils have been the evening ticket. Before the rain late in the past week there have been a few reports of Ephermera Olives in tiny size 22.

The Drakes are early, and we have only seen a few, but the next few weeks should provide some absolutely incredible dry fly fishing. Be sure to have Duns and Spinners. Remember that these are usually an evening deal, although an overcast cooler day can see the Duns hatching in the late afternoon. As the hatch progresses, it can even be an after dark affair. Be sure to have the NYMPHS to fish if the bugs aren’t hatching at that moment……they are critical.

If you are looking to dry fly fish this weekend you box will need to be filled with ICSI Midges, Goddard Caddis, Henryville Special, and Elk Hair Caddis for the mornings. Stock up on #16-18 Thorax, Parachute, Comparadun, and Spinner Sulfurs for the afternoons/into the evenings. For the late evenings Brown Paradrakes, Bear’s Hi-Vis, Comparadrake and the Brown Drake Spinners will be the go-to’s.

Nymphing is always a productive option. Right now you will need to fishing the Brown Drake nymphs with either an unweighted nymph or softhackle trailer. Typically we are fishing either an unweighted Hares Ear or Pheasant Tail as the second fly. Having some Net Builder Caddis, Flashabou Caddis, Core Caddis, Nitro Caddis, and the Drowned Caddis will set your straight accross the board.

**The AuSable boat has been in the shop for some minor repairs but is now back and ready for action. Brian has a few slots open between now and mid-June so if anybody wants to do a float in this legendary craft….during this legendary season……give him a call at the shop.

She’s all repaired up and ready to float!

Clearfork River

We need more reports with good information and pictures of bugs from the Clear Fork. With all of the options around the state right now we just haven’t been able to spend much time up that way. There have been some good hatches, but with the rain predicted up there it is going to be hard to guess what this weekend will look like. If you are up that way then make sure to be prepared for different conditions. A streamer rod, sink tip, and articulated streamers for the off colored water, Dry fly setup for the evenings, and a nymphing rig as a backup will keep you in the game for the upper or lower river. Down below the Pleasant Hill Dam is always a good place to stop by and fish a streamer as you never know what you will find. There have been a few reports that the road heading down to the covered bridge was closed, but you can still park close to the dam and walk down.

As for flies they will be much the same as for the Mad. If you are looking to dry fly fish this weekend you box will need to be filled with ICSI Midges, Goddard Caddis, Henryville Special, and Elk Hair Caddis for the mornings. Stock up on #16-18 Thorax, Parachute, Comparadun, and Spinner Sulfurs for the afternoons/into the evenings. For the late evenings Paradrakes, Bear’s Hi-Vis, Comparadrake and the Brown Drake Spinners will be the go-to’s. Be sure to have some Light Cahills also as they can be thick in the evenings for the next month or so…..both stretches.

Nymphing is always a productive option. Right now you will need to fishing the Brown Drake nymphs with either an unweighted nymph or softhackle trailer. Typically we are fishing either an unweighted Hares Ear or Pheasant Tail as the second fly. Having some Net Builder Caddis, Flashabou Caddis, Core Caddis, Nitro Caddis, and the Drowned Caddis will set your straight accross the board.

Clear Creek

The creek is low and will continue to clear out even more into the weekend. Light rain will make the creek fish well this weekend. The Smallmouth bite is heating up so small streamers are a good bet for both Smallies and trout. Cover lots of water and enjoy the scenery.

Nymphing always produces with Hares Ear and Pheasant tails. As for the dry fly fishing the most consistent flies have been small Elk Hair Caddis and Henryville Specials. There are a few Sulfurs and Light Cahills around so have a few in the box just in case. Ants like the Ant Acid and Quick Sight Ant along with Flash Beetles and other terrestrials also make good choices in the coming weeks.

Erie Steelhead/Smallmouth

Click Here for details and pricing

Lake Run Smallmouth fishing is still good, but most of the fish are moving out into the harbors. Guide trips this week have focused on the lower rivers and river mouths.

There are plenty of resident fish in the rivers although this weekend up there looks rough as the rain has messed up the rivers. We are just about done reporting on the tributaries, but we will keep you updated on what we experience and hear for those heading that way.

John Wiesinger flew in from Georgia to fish the tribs with us and did VERY well.

Jim Wiers this past Monday with Josh on the jet at the mouth of Conneaut

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- 4/21/17

October 23, 2026April 21, 2017

* 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.

Across the board most of the streams are on the drop and fishable. There is some rain in the forecast for Sunday and the middle of next week. The amounts are changing by the hour so make sure to contact us if you head up early in the week. This is a great time of the year as almost everything is active. Get out there and fish.

Got plans this Summer? How about a trip to Montana?

Join Brian Flechsig and Kelly Galloup at the Slide Inn on the banks of the Madison River

July 30th- August 5th

Warm Water

Smallmouth Bass fishing has been on fire lately! With the temps forecasted for next week it will not be long before they start to spawn. Many of the local streams are off colored. The fish are aggressive and feeding, but with low visibility make sure to have a wading staff with you. We do guide for smallies so get your trip on the books to take advantage of this pre-spawn bite! Bass and Panfish have also been the talk as the ponds continue to warm. Look for the Largemouth Bass to start thinking about spawning in the next couple weeks also.

Local ponds are really starting to produce. Our good friend and customer Joe Olivas sent us this pic just the other day

Gear for Smallmouth Bass would be 6-8wt rods, Intermediate sinking lines, and flies 4-6″ in length(Kelly Galloup style Modern Streamers). These same flies and rigs can be used for Largemouth Bass as well. Panfish or small pond Bass will be fine on a 4-5wt with floating lines. Flies will be small traditional sized trout streamers (Black Nose Dace, Muddlers, Matukas, Mickey Finns), Wooly Buggers, big nymphs (Prince, Hares Ear, Bears PM Caddis) and San Juan Worms

MRO Guide Pat Kelly on the Water today with clients

Hybrid stripers and white bass are also running throughout the region and we’ve been hearing some GREAT reports. Josh, Pat and Donnie have been scouting some new waters and are now ready to start booking trips. Anybody interested in catching a mess of these “white” fish, let us know. Interested in searching them out on your own, we can point you in the right direction there as well. A ton of fun on a fly rod and lots of opportunities around.

Send us pics this week to use in the reports? Be sure to include your address and such and we’ll send you a FREE MRO “Fly Fish Ohio” sticker.

Click Here to view our full selection of “Cool Stickers”.

Mad River

The Mad continues to be very productive! Look for lots of rising fish in the late afternoons and into the evenings. These fish are keying in on the tail end of the Hendrickson hatch. If you want to take advantage of this dry fly fishing stock up on Rusty Spinners in various sizes, Parachute Adams, Thorax/Traditional style Adams, Red Quill, Quill Gordon, and Irrisistibles. With the cloudy forecast into the weekend make sure to have some Blue Wing Olives in your box also. In the next coming weeks stock up on Light Cahill, Sulfurs, March Browns, and Caddis.

Yesterday, Brian and Donnie were both out on the water with clients. It was pretty windy so the hatch really didn’t come off at all but the spinner fall was GREAT in the evening so the bugs are still around. Tons of fish eating the spinners from 7:30 till about 8:15 or so. We are truly experiencing a great dry fly season here with the best activity by far in the evenings, an hour or so before dark. Did also see a handful of March Browns and Light Cahills. No Sulphers yet.

Brian got to float in the AuSable boat yesterday with John Fisher from Batavia, Ohio

Anybody interested in a float trip in this boat, or with Donnie or Pat in their drift boats?

Let us know, we have some dates open and it’s a great way to fish the river.

Click Here for details and pricing on our guide trips.

Fishing in the mornings have also been good. The most productive has been nymphing and swinging Soft Hackles of various colors. Nymph with Pheasant Tails, Hares Ear, Copper Johns, and Prince Nymphs.

With the low clear water the streamer bite has not been the best so we suggest getting your streamer fix on one of the many Smallmouth Bass streams in the state. If you insist, the smaller stuff like muddlers, buggers and small sculpin patterns are the way to go.

Dear Mad River Outfitters,

I visited the Mad recently and the water level was around 250 cfs and held a light green stain, the conditions were absolutely perfect for stripping streamers. The hot streamer for the morning was a red, white, and blue clouser minnow. Fish were rising in many of the locations I stopped at, and the morning was action packed. Many fish were caught, and it was the best morning of fly fishing I have ever had. Here are pictures of my two biggest browns for the day.

Keep doing what you’re doing at the shop, its always a blast going in and being surrounded by those with the passion of fly fishing.

Tight lines, and sincerely,

-Murphy Coan

Clearfork River

The Clear Fork is starting to fire up. Dry fly fishing has been good to excellent in the evenings. Much like the Mad River report: These fish are keying in on the tail end of the Hendrickson hatch although it seems to still be going strong up there. Best activity has for sure been the evening spinner falls. Some reports of EPIC numbers of bugs and rising fish.

If you want to take advantage of this dry fly fishing stock up on Rusty Spinners in various sizes, Parachute Adams, Thorax/Traditional style Adams, Red Quill, Quill Gordon, and Irrisistibles. With the cloudy forecast into the weekend make sure to have some Blue Wing Olives in your box also. In the next coming weeks stock up on Light Cahill, Sulfurs, March Browns, and Caddis.

Most of the consistent fishing has been in the upper river focusing on the afternoon and into evening hatches. The lower river below Pleasant Hill Dam offers you a good mix bag of fish.

Clear Creek

The recent rains have made the creek raise, but the levels are now dropping and will be good into the weekend. Saturday will still provide small streamer fishing along with nymphing. Look for Hendrickson, Caddis, Blue Wing Olives and midges to continue Sunday and into next week.
If you want to take advantage of this dry fly fishing stock up on Rusty Spinners in various sizes, Parachute Adams, Thorax/Traditional style Adams, Red Quill, Quill Gordon, and Irrisistibles. With the cloudy forecast into the weekend make sure to have some Blue Wing Olives in your box also. In the next coming weeks stock up on Light Cahill, Sulfurs, March Browns, and Caddis.

Nymphing is always productive. Nymph with Pheasant Tails, Hares Ear, Copper Johns, and Prince Nymphs. Also make sure to have a variety of sizes and colors of Soft Hackles.

Erie Steelhead