July’s flows on the Big Gunpowder Falls are starting out low
but as I write this have spiked from 40 cfs to around 100cfs and leveled off
around 70 cfs for the time being.
While the low, ultra-clear flows, can be make stalking fish
a challenge the Gunpowder’s brown trout aren’t shy about getting to a caddis
dry or emerger pattern before another trout can. Similarly, increased flows
from summer storms allow the fish to spread out and find a feeding lane of their
own with less competition.
Last week I had the pleasure of fishing with a Ken and
Jonathan, a father & son team who were taking advantage of summer by filing
their time with lots of adventure. It was a treat to share the pastime of fly
fishing and some of my favorite water with them. I got to see Ken catch his
first trout on a fly rod and seeing the way a young guy like Jonathan takes in
nature was refreshing enough to inspire me to look around more myself.
Keep your box filled with caddis patterns of all types.
Those sulphurs are still popping off here and there and can be a fun wild-card
if you’ve got any left after the spring hatches. La Fontane style caddis along
with Elk Hair Caddis will keep you covered for most situations but “worm” style
patterns with and without bead-heads can’t be overlooked.
Get out there and get your feet wet – the water’s nice and
cold!