Warmer days are starting to bump water temperatures up, and that’s bringing more consistent insect activity. We’re seeing an abundant midge hatch throughout the day, with fish beginning to look up more regularly. Dry fly opportunities are improving, especially in the mornings and again before sunset, when trout can be found sipping midges in tailouts and softer pools. Surface activity can still be a bit sporadic, but when you locate a pod of feeding fish it’s well worth slowing down and presenting a small midge pattern.

Nymphing remains a reliable approach, particularly through the deeper runs and transitional water. With warming temps, we’re starting to see more nymph movement along the banks, and there have even been a few reports of skwalas showing up. It’s a good time to mix in stonefly nymphs or larger attractor patterns alongside your standard winter fare. Proven producers like the TJ Hooker, Pat’s Rubber Legs, and Double Bead Stones continue to move fish, while adjusting size or adding a bit of flash can help on brighter days when trout get selective.

Streamer fishing has also continued to produce. With minimal shelf ice this season, a lot of water that’s typically locked up has stayed open and accessible. Focus on working big, dark, high-contrast streamers low and slow, covering structure and deeper buckets methodically. Patterns like a Sparkle Minnow, Dungeon, or even a classic Woolly Bugger are excellent choices for targeting some of the river’s larger fish right now.