Livingston Manor, Saturday March 23rd, 9am
Close to an inch of rain in the forecast between last night and what we'll see today. Temps will stay in the 30s through the weekend, but will start to warm back up finally starting next week. Hopefully that will signal the start of spring, with more reliable hatches in tow.
As we move through March, black and brown Stoneflies (14 - 18) will continue to be the most consistent hatches, so if you're looking to get out with the hopes of dry fly opportunities it'd be a good idea to have a few on hand. The first mayfly hatches of the season will be Quill Gordons (#12 - #14), Blue Quills (#16 - #18), and Blue Winged Olives (#18 - #22). It wouldn't be completely out of the character of recent years to see a few about during the warmest part of the afternoons. As a dry fly fisherman in the early season it is important to stay mobile. Have a few spots in mind that are known to have the right conditions for fish to be looking up to the surface to feed, and always be ready to move to the next spot if nothing is happening at the first. There is always a fish rising somewhere!
In the colder morning temps, its rare to see fish move very far to eat a fly, making nymphs, fished deep and slow through likely holding water the most effective. Frenchies, Stone Flies, Caddis Pupa, and more classic patterns like Pheasant Tails and Hare's Ears can all be efficient fished under an indicator, or on a tight line.
As water temps begin to warm soft hackles will become increasingly more effective. Whether presented on a slow swing (matching the current speed) or a dead drift, they do a great job of imitating a variety early season insects like midges, small stoneflies, and the little black caddis that can begin to show themselves after a good thaw.
We've had decent reports from staff and customers willing to put in the time to bring a fish to the net. It's all about focusing on the stretch of water you have chosen to fish, breaking it up into smaller pieces, and covering the square footage of those pieces thoroughly.
All rivers are now CATCH AND RELEASE ONLY. When making plans to fish, stick to the main rivers and keep an eye out for redds. Care taken in the current season will only help fish populations for the seasons to come.
Beaverkill / Willowemoc Rivers
East Branch of the Delaware River
West Branch of the Delaware River
Main Stem of the Delaware River
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Neversink Report
