April first has come to pass, the traditional
start to trout season. Most Springs this
time of year our trout streams are iced up or at flood stage or very close to
it. This spring water flows in many of our trout streams are at ideal levels.
We are having a cold snap over next few days, No sense in looking for any bugs
hatching. However do not hesitate to get on the water, don’t let a little cold
weather stop you. Consider doing a
little winter style nymph fishing.
Back to steelhead fishing, Western
New York, Oak Orchard River and the surrounding creeks and rivers. Too early
for me to tell but it looks like the steelhead fishing is winding down of the Western
New York Rivers. I hope this is only an intermission between runs, But only
time will tell. Other than a slow down in the numbers of steelhead not much for
changes this past week. We still had to fish smart and hunt for the steelhead,
same batch of flies got the job done, willy buggers and leech patterns. Water flows everywhere have been excellent
and water temperatures have been in the mid 40° range. This is why I’m still
hopeful we will see at least another week of decent steelhead fishing.
Salmon River Pulaski NY; true
to form the steelhead fishing is still going as consistent is it always does
for this time of the year. Water flows remain constant with a 500 CFS dam
released. This is a very convenient flow for both fishing and running the drift
boats. Water temperatures also remain fairly consistent, fluctuating between
the low to mid 40s degree range. The recent cold snap and more consequently the
cooler water temperatures that come with it, will cool down the water
temperatures. This cold snap is also slowing down the fish activity, for a few
days. With the cold snap, water temperatures drop into the mid 30° range. Sharp
drop in water temperature is what will bring the fishing to a standstill until
the water temperatures start to warm back. Fishing pressure over the weekends,
have been intense. As a result we’ve had to adjust to work around all the
pressure. Lower river is seeing way less fishing pressure. Even though there
are fewer fish you’re able to work the water efficiently and having good
success doing it. Do not forget that once the pressure gets off the water the
fish will become active once again. Late in the day the upper River can become
very productive. The fly box; stoneflies nymphs still getting it done, in size
12 to 10, For the swing, small intruders around two and a half to 3 and half
inches long. We have been having the best success with size for size 4 and size
6 Black and brown willy buggers.
Note;
A reminder, Rick Smith and
myself still have dates for spring steelhead fishing both April and May. Early
May is what we call, swimming season. A great time to fish for steelhead with
two-handed rods and a singing fly. Feel free to call to discuss dates and
fishing opportunities. Cell 585-233-0436
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