The West Fork is running high and cold with spring runoff pushing strong through the canyon. Water clarity fluctuates daily depending on snowmelt and rain, but 1–2 feet of visibility can still be found in the mornings, especially up high near Painted Rocks.
Fishing Outlook:
This stretch is just beginning to show promise. The fish are hugging the banks and in softer pockets—focus your efforts there. Nymph rigs and streamers are producing, with the occasional opportunity to fish a dry-dropper in slower water or on warmer afternoons.
Effective Techniques:
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Tight-line or indicator nymphing in soft seams and back eddies
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Streamers fished deep with sink tips
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Dry-dropper setups in slower inside bends during midday warmth
Flies to Use:
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Nymphs: Pat's Rubber Legs (coffee/black), CDC Pheasant Tail, Worms (red or pink)
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Streamers: Sculpzilla, Mini Dungeon, JJ Sparkle Minnow
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Dries (for afternoon shots): Skwala, Tan Chubby Chernobyl, Purple Haze (Size 14–16)
Tips:
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Fish early in the day when water is clearer
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Work the slow water close to the bank—most fish won’t be far from cover
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Be cautious wading: flows are pushy and cold
Forecast:
Expect runoff conditions to hold through the rest of May, with improving clarity and consistent dry fly fishing starting the first week of June. When flows drop, salmon flies and golden stones will be the main event here.
