Stoneflies in the Mud

STONEFLIES CAN BE DEADLY DURING "MUD SEASON"

Though many waters in the Roaring Fork Valley remain clear during May, most other waters in the Rockies during May and June are high and muddy due to spring runoff. Most people turn to tailwater and stillwater fisheries during this time of year despite the fact that fish do feed in stained and discolored water situations. Many flies and techniques can be employed in muddy waters that help the fish find the fly. First and foremost, one must understand that the bulk of the fishing we do in high water situations is nymph and streamer fishing. Fish typically will be hunkered down on the stream bottom and up against the banks. Heavier rods in the 5-6 weight categories are required since we typically will be throwing big flies with ample weight that will drive the flies down to the bottom. Because of the stained water and larger flies, heavier leaders and tippets are also used. One can often get by fishing 2X, 3X and even heavier tippets.

Large stonefly nymphs are most active during runoff including the Pteronarcys or Salmonfly. This massive (2-3.5 inch) stonefly often becomes dislodged in the faster turbulent waters and become an easy, large meal for Mr. Trout. The peak hatch times for the Salmonfly also coincide with spring runoff. This is a hard hatch to time right (average durations last up to 2 weeks) though many an angler will tell you fond memories of the "Salmonfly hatch in 72" or what have you. An insect of this size makes even the stubborn large trout feed voraciously. Big nymph patterns in sizes 4-8 like Kaufmann's Stone, Wooly Buggers, Poxyback Stones, and Molting Stones will fish well. Fishing with two fly rigs and a healthy amount of split shot will be required. If adult Salmonflies are being seen big Orange Stimulators, Triple Deckers, and King Kongs should be used. Salmonflies are clumsy fliers, and often land on the water with a noticeable splash. When casting these big dry flies be sure to "slap" your flies on the waters surface. Fish take instant notice of all this commotion and typically react with an aggressive take. Several sub-species of stoneflies are common on most waters, from large Golden Stones to smaller Brown Stones. Due to the visibility of the water encountered the larger stoneflies prove to be better fish catches. The Colorado River in Glenwood Canyon and upriver below Gore Canyon provide good hatches of Salmonflies.


Other than the Salmonflies, big streamers also fish nicely. Look for patterns that have big profile heads made of spun hair or wool. These materials "push" and move large amounts of water when being stripped. Fish sense that moving water through their lateral line. A lateral line is the fishes super sensitive set of nerves that enables the fish to find your fly in muddy water and even at night. Another factor to keep in mind is fly color. Most people are under the impression that bright flies show up best in these conditions while just the opposite is true. Blacks, browns, purples, and dark olives are best. This dark color provides a better contrast against the stained color of the water.


One other option for you to try is finding clear flowing tributaries that are running into the main river being fished. Fish will often congregate in the seam of the clear and muddy waters. A perfect example of this is the Frying Pan flowing into the Roaring Fork, or the many tributaries that flow into the Colorado. The fish can obviously see and eat insects in the clear water while the muddy water provides the fish with protection from other predators. Try some of these flies and techniques next time you encounter muddy water, especially during the spring. The results will surprise you. Remember, the fish must continue to eat despite what the water clarity looks like.

Kirk Webb
Taylor Creek Fly Shop