Temperatures are getting warmer, Bluebird days are plentiful and the snow melt is coming to a slow just over the pass in Idaho, which means dry fly time!
Water flows on the South Fork in Irwin continue to hold steady at around 13100 cfs, which is an optimal flow for this time of the year. Additionally, the fish have been eager to hit the surface for big foam, caddis, Green Drakes, and PMD’s on some areas of the river. Afternoons around 1-1:30 have consistently been a hot spot for feeding with large cutthroat trout acting very opportunistic after a long winter hiatus. Dry/dropper tandem rigs are a great way to pass a feeding lull, as we’ve had luck with prince nymphs, pheasant tails and purple hot belly’s.
The summer outlook for the South Fork is promising. A strong 2013/2014 winter snow pack will allow for great fishing flows, and add longevity to the South Fork’s fishing season, so get at it!
