Conditions
Steelhead continue moving through the canyon, making them the prime target right now, focus on current seams and deeper runs where traveling fish funnel through. Smallmouth are still available but may slow in the recent cool weather. At 13,700 cfs the flows remain fishable, though they've dropped from earlier levels. Work subsurface patterns for both species, and don't overlook intermediate and floating presentations as steelhead move.
Gauges
Techniques
- Focus on places that naturally funnel traveling steelhead. Inside corners, tailouts, current transitions and softer lanes beside heavier water are all worth attention.
- There is no need to commit to one line system either. Shallower runs can be handled with floating and intermediate presentations, while a Skagit setup gives you another option when you find deeper or slower water.
- Smallmouth are still available as well. The recent cool weather could slow down some of the aggressive topwater fishing, but subsurface patterns should continue producing around rocky banks, drop-offs and current breaks.
Recommended flies
floating presentationsintermediate presentationsSkagit setupssubsurface patterns for smallmouth