Flows in 11 Mile Canyon are hovering between 60 and 80 cfs, and the fishing is excellent! While flows are a bit lower than average, water temperatures have remained cool and the fish are happy. We’ve been seeing some great hatches of tricos, PMDs, caddis, BWOs, and midges, which has led to some awesome dry fly fishing in the canyon. Nymphing is still productive in the early mornings, but dry-dropper and hopper-dropper techniques are fishing well throughout the day. Terrestrials are also starting to make a larger appearance, and fish have been keying in on ants, hoppers, and beetles in the afternoon and evening.

Hopper dropper and dry dropper fishing has been the most productive method as of late. Chubbies, Hippie Stompers, and PMX Hoppers in sizes #8-12 have been fishing well when paired with a Blowtorch, 2-Bit Hooker, Duracell, or Guides Choice Hares Ear in sizes #14-18. Parachute Ants, Stimulators, Elk Hair Caddis, and Purple Hazes in sizes #12-16 have also been good choices for drys. Targeting undercut banks, shallow riffles, and pocket water has been best for dry droppers. 

For the dry fly enthusiasts, fishing is prime in the canyon at the moment, with tricos being the star of the show. Fishing the 8-11 AM window with #20-24 trico spinners has been optimal, with light tippet being key for success. Trailing a #20-24 black RS2 behind a trico spinner has been productive for finicky risers. PMDs are still hatching in small numbers, though fish are still willing to take a #14-18 Parachute PMD or Film Critic in the pocket water. Caddis are still present, and have made for some awesome dry fly fishing in the evening.