The Metolius has been fishing great lately through the past few weeks due to the extremely warm weather. With any luck, we will see a return of winter weather, which may slow the fish down slightly, but we need more snow. The hatches are very odd on the Metolius right now. We’re seeing lots of October caddis, as well as some smaller size 14 - 18 dark tan caddis. Blue wing olives hatches have been decent, during the warmer days hatches seem to be later in the day. Rising fish aren’t super easy to find so don’t be disappointed if you have to swap to a nymph rig. Stonefly nymphs are working well, as they typically do in winter. October caddis pupa are a great idea as well. If the smaller caddis are out try a smaller tan pupa pattern. And, as always, baetis nymphs will work great, especially right before or during a hatch. Make sure to do your snow dances, put a spoon under your pillow, or whatever other method you prefer to bring in some snow. 

 

Suggested Dries: Elk Hair Caddis Tan #14 -18, X-Caddis Tan #14 - 18, Purple Haze #14-18, Hackle Stacker Baetis #18-20, Parachute Baetis #16-20.

Suggested Nymphs: Lex’s Improved Golden Stone #8-10, Poxyback Golden Stone #8-10, Green Drake Nymph #12-14, Deep October Caddis Pupa #10-12, Red or Black Copper John #14-18, Red or Black Lightning Bug #14-18, Red or Black Two Bit Hooker #16-20, Guide’s Choice Hare’s Ear #14-18, Slim Shady Olive #18-20, FB Pheasant Tail #14-18, Micro Mayfly #16-20, Pearl or Red Rainbow Warrior #16-20, Copper Microstone #14-18