Water Conditions:
The S.J. is a freestone stream. As such, the flows will continue to fall as the snowpack melts. We are currently in the final stages of the "good flow levels" for this season. Above the point where Minaret Creek enters the stream, the flows are getting skinny. When this happens, the fish stay put but move to areas of more cover, (under the bushes usually), or in the few deep pools.
Below this point the flows are OK but only for a couple more weeks. The area between Rainbow and Lower falls is a good bet. Water temps are upper 50's in the am to low 60's mid day.

Fishing Conditions and Hatches:
Fishing is good for both wild and stocked fish. There is more holding water below minaret creek now than up higher due to the higher flow. Hatches are sporadic with large light color and smaller Caddis, some Mayflies, (sporadic large Drakes), and small and larger Stoneflies.

Look for pocket water and start with a dry/dropper setup. When the fish ignore the dropper, switch to a single dry. Search for holding water under the bushes on the side of the stream. The fish will be looking for that cover now. Move laterally in the water to get the best drift. The areas in and between the upper campgrounds are starting to show the effect of heavy pressure. You are best off hiking a bit.Also,if you can ,evenings have been the best fishing.One reason for hiring a guide is that our permits allow us driving access all day so afternoon-evening guide trips are a great option.

Recommended Flies:
Sporadic large Drakes, Large light colored Caddis and lots of small midges. Dries: #10-14 Yellow and Orange Stimulators, #12 yellow or orange Humpy's, #12-18 Elk Hair Caddis, #12-18 Royal Wulff's, #12-18 Parachute Adams, black ant patterns and #16-18 PMD and light cahill. Nymphs: #18 zebra midges, #18 PT's, #18 Micro Mayflies, #14-16 Barr's PMD Emergers, #16 Black AP nymphs, Mercer's Stonefly Nymphs, #16-18 Caddis pupa,#16-18 Beck's sulpher emerger

Guide's Hint: If you are getting fish rising on your fly but you keep missing them, they really aren't eating it, just bumping it, (a refusal). When this happens, switch to a smaller fly.