Report Date:
http://www.thetroutfitter.com/fshreport.htmlWater Conditions:
Water temperature is now lower than the optimum temps all over the lake so look for the warmest spots or the ideal 56-58 degress on the bottom.
McGee Bay has water down to 50 deg in the shallows and out to a beautiful 56-58 out in about 9-10 ft.
The north end is getting back to reasonable temps along Green Banks as well.
Fishing Conditions and Hatches:
Slooooow is the word all over. Daphnia plus infrequent hatches and falling barometer have made it tough.
Fish are spread out in McGee and the north end and somewhat territorial typical of this time of year so move, even if only 100 ft periodically if no bites.
Look for surface activity to find the fish. They are stil chasing the Perch even when eating Daphnia.
Recommended Flies:
The strippers in the tube or even from the boat is fairing better than midging. Weeds are going fast so they become the premium spots even if only a few stocks here and there.
All the usual stuff, Mylar Matukas, Hornbergs, Perfection Perch, Punk Perch, Stillwater Hares, and small, dark wooly buggers will do the trick if presented right - slooooooow just off the bottom.
Size 16 bead-head, black Optiimidge has been the best producer with red/black coming in second.
The Crowley Cam (mostly wet dirt cam) is off for the season. See you in the Spring with some water!
Guides Hint: I have now done several mini seminars (1-1.5 hrs) for a couple of fly clubs concentrating on what can be learned from the underwater video - "What causes drive-bys and refusals and how to turn them into takes." Contact me if your club is interested. kent@thetroutfitter.com
A four DVD copy of the recent 8-hour Crowley University will be available soon for those who could not attend. This is a reference library you need to add to your arsenal if you fish the lake.