It seems like this winter has been anything but this year. Above normal temperatures and below normal snowpack could mean the spring run may start early, barring any Polar Vortex. If we get any bump in flow, be ready. Here’s the latest from the frontlines.
As of the date of this river report, with near normal flows, the Grand is running dirty from the recent rains, warm weather and runoff. To be honest, we won’t be fishing it until the clarity improves, which hopefully will be in the next couple of weeks.
Prior to this, fishing was consistent, with some fresh fish slowly working their way into the system.
We have been running spey fishing trips and have had some success. We’ve been throwing the heaviest lines we can. This means intermediate shooting heads and tips from T-14 and T-17 to T-20, depending on water depth. Fly colors will vary on conditions and how far the light penetrates into the water. Blacks and olives with chartreuse and orange heads are our go too.
On the terminal end beads and eggs flies have also produced. Try using the more peachy/pearly colors, such as glow roe, peach roe, and peachy punch. UV colors have also been doing well in Fireball, Super UV peach and Super UV tangerine. If you’re going to use egg files, make sure to use a veil / nuke egg. If you are going to fish the dirtier water, run larger egg flies or beads to makes sure sure you can get the fish’s attention.
Orvis Fly Tying Event
On February 26, Tom Werkman will be at the Orvis store in Breton Village tying up some warm-water flies that he uses for smallmouth bass on the Grand River. If you’re interested in learning how to tie some of his flies plus some tips and tactics, you can sign up by clicking the button below.
We Are Still Running Trips
Despite the current condition of the Grand River we are still running trips on other area rivers. To be honest, the phones are starting ring and given the current start of warmer than normal weather pattern, you’ll want to get on our calendar for February and March. We do have availability so reach out to us today to book your trip.