Fishing Outlook & Conditions
Water Temp:
60
Orvis Carmel's Tip of the Week
The USACE is releasing water out of the lake to draw down to winter pool. We expect this to happen for the balance of the week. Keep your drift right on the seam of fast/slow water and make sure your bobber (yes, we said it) is attached to your leader at the proper depth! You'll want to fish the seam between fast/slow water to target feeding trout. The trout will hold in the slower water looking for food in the faster water. We'll occasionally have fish taking dry's on top, but the hatches can be sporadic.
Directions open in app
Water Flow Data
5-Day Outlook as of 11/19/24
Water levels are holding steady above 3 feet and discharge is ideal so head on out for some great fishing. Keep in mind the tailwater is very dependent on water flow, or CFS. With less water entering the tailwater, fishing conditions change dramatically. Think 6x or 7x, much longer leader and fly sizing 18-32.
Techniques & Tips as of 11/19/24
Nymphing is always a great technique to use at the tailwater! This time of year, we'll experience sporadic hatches offering up dry fly fishing opportunities. Don't be afraid to try a dry dropper set up! Streamers can be a game changer too, don't be afraid to throw a little meat at them! Small midges are working...think Lightning bug, Higa's SOS and zebra midges. Letting a soft hackle dead drift and swing is another fun technique to try!
Local Species Available Year Round
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Brown and Rainbow Trout
Orvis Carmel's Recommended Fly Patterns
"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:
Name: | Colors: | Size(s): |
---|---|---|
Schroeder's Hi-Vis Hopper | olive | 18 |
Bank Beetle | Black | 20-22 |
Purple Haze | purple | 18-22 |
Micro Egg | Red | 18-22 |
Sow Bug | cream | 18-22 |
WD-40 | Olive | 16-18 |
Flashback Scud Wet Hare's Ear | natutal | 16-20 |
Woolly Bugger | white | 10-14 |
Stimulator | Yellow | 12-16 |
Midge | White or Black | 18-22 |
Orvis Carmel's Recommended Gear
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Best Leader:
Super Strong Plus Leaders
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Best Tippet:
SuperStrong Plus Tippet in 30- and 100-meter spools
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Best Fly Fishing Rod:
4-Weight 9' Fly Rod
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Best Floating Fly Line:
WF Trout Fly Line
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Best Sinking Fly Line:
Clear Sink Tip Fly Line