The Nature Conservancy’s Silver Creek Preserve remains open through November 30, so now is the time to squeeze in another day or two on one of our favorite pieces of water. Silver Creek north of the highway (and Kilpatrick Pond) will remain open until the end of March. Note – duck hunters are active on Silver Creek this time of year, so anglers should be aware. Most of the Creek’s large brown trout have completed spawning and are actively feeding to “pack on the pounds” before winter. Dry-fly activity is limited to the late afternoon, but anglers should expect small Baetis (BWO) and midges during calm days. Throwing streamers or leeches to deep, dark water and undercut banks will take plenty of fish. The old adage of “bright day, bright fly and dark day, dark fly” seems to hold true. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite streamers.
Anglers on the Big Wood River should seek out water that sees afternoon sun; avoid shady canyons and tree-lined corridors of river. Baetis and midge activity remains strong given the right weather conditions. A size 18 or 20 Olive Gulper Special or Film Critic accurately imitates Baetis and will fool trout all along the Big Wood. To take fish-eating midges (look to the foam lines), fish a visible midge cluster imitation followed by a trailing midge emerger or adult. A white-winged Griffith’s Gnats in a size 16 or 18, trailed by a size 20 or 22 Tie-Down Midge, is an excellent choice. Nymphing will be extremely productive throughout the winter months. Go-to double nymph rigs include large Rubber Legs, Princes, Hare’s Ears, and Copper Johns followed by more diminutive imitations such as black or red Zebra Midges, Pheasant Tails, Rainbow Warriors, or Brassies. Sculpin imitations such as olive Buggers, Zonkers, and Sparkle Minnows fished on a slow swing effectively imitate the numerous sculpin found in the Big Wood. This technique will yield quality over quantity and often produces some exceptional rainbows.
Fishing on the Big Lost River below Mackay Reservoir remains productive and flows now are approximately 70 CFS. Gear and tactics used for the Big Wood River are highly effective on the Big Lost. Keep in mind that with low, clear water, anglers will need to be stealthy and use long, light leaders and tippets.
All of us at Picabo Angler wish you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving! We are grateful for the support of all our customers, clients and friends, and look forward to continuing to serve your needs here at Picabo Angler!
Happy fishing!
