On the Fly Magazine: The Greater Yellowstone Fishing Guide

Fishing Report
Tuesday, June 12 2007 / 10:16 AM

Location: Snake River - Jackson Hole, WY

The river here in the valley is clearing a bit. Not to say it’s fishing well, but people are bringing a few fish to hand here and there. Typically, the lower stretches will start producing before the upper sections in Grand Teton National Park. As of Sunday, the Buffalo Fork was still spitting a fair amout of goo into the Snake, as was Spread Creek. Pacific Creek was running high but reasonably clear. So, get after the Cutties while there is still water in Pacific Creek. The lean snow year will shorten the season up there!
If floating the main stem of the Snake here in Jackson Hole is your plan, I’d suggest putting in from the Wilson bridge on down. If you’re skilled enough on the oars, a float through the whitewater section of the canyon can be an excellent early season float. On any stretch, double nymph rigs and streamers will be your best bets. However, some of the slower side channels above West Table have been seeing a bit of action on top. Keep in mind that because the Snake is starting it’s season in June, we will experience more traditional hatches than we normally see in July and August. Those two months are generally attractor fishing at it’s best with some evening caddis fishing to be had here and there. For the remainder of June you can expect some caddis activity on sunny mornings as well as evenings. Be on the lookout for PMD’s and some Drakes on cloudy days and by all means, don’t leave home without stocking your fly box with a variety of stone fly patterns, including plenty of rubberlegs to go underneath the surface.

If you need some help as far as where to wade or float here on the Snake, drop us and email at stuff@ontheflymag.com . We will respond as soon as possible. We can also assist you in selecting the best guide or guide service for the river(s) you’d like to fish anywhere in the region.

Good fishin’ to everyone!

Andy