306 South Main #3
Ellensburg, WA 98926
888-950-FISH
www.worleybuggerflyco.com worleybugger@elltel.net

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"The Yakima River's Premier Pro-Shop, Professional Guide Service and Online Network Assisting Fly Fishers Worldwide Since 1995"

December 22nd-2004


As Christmas Day approaches, the mild Fall like temperatures continue to reign throughout the Yakima River Basin.  Unseasonable winter days filled with afternoon sunshine and near fifty degree temperatures have been common. 

WBFC Winter Guided Tour Info.

During the winter months of December, January and February Worley Bugger Fly Co. will be conducting guided tours on Central Washington's, Yakima River.  Enjoy a day of fishing in peaceful solitude, floating in warm, comfortable drift boats. Learn the techniques required to catch Yakima rainbows during the mild winter months of the season. Day and Half Day tours are available as well as our very popular 4+ hour Winter tour.

Day Tour $300.00 per boat  one or two person
Half Day Tour $250.00 per boat  one or two person
Winter Tour $165.00 per boat  one or two person

Guided Tour Gift Certificates Available

All Flies Are Provided On Our Guided Tours.

Fog banks not uncommon this time of year have occasionally settled in the Kittitas Valley during the night, however most days the early afternoon sunshine burns through creating spectacular December fishing days.
The river has settled out over the past several days after last week's heavy precipitation. River flows are back in the normal operating levels for this time of year. 
At this time, not a skiff of snow resides along the river banks and the low lying hills that encircle the Ellensburg Valley are nearly barren.  These circumstances make for ideal winter time fishing.
However, without an abundant snow pack in the Cascades, water conditions this coming summer could be horrendous.  Lets hope we see several winter storms  pass our way during the  months of January and February.
From the staff, management and professional guide service of Worley Bugger Fly Co., we wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.  We thank all our friends and patrons that have supported our efforts over the years and our pro shop and guide team looks forward to serving your fly fishing needs throughout the 2005 season.  Merry Christmas!

December 14th-2004


After a succession of warm days, the Yakima River was subjected to the winter elements as a heavy laden down pour moved across the Kittitas Valley late last week.  Under most circumstances, the Central Basin would have been blanketed in snow this time of year.  However, mild day time conditions and temperatures continued as the snow accumulations remained in the higher elevations of the Cascades.
The thin layer of snow that had been covering the low lying hills and stream sides was discharged into the Yakima's main tributaries, swelling their small banks.  Blasts of cool, cloudy water hurried down these small inlets eventually colliding with the Yakima, creating higher streams flows and less favorable fishing conditions.
Cooler, drier December temperatures have once again sent the river volume plummeting.  Sand and sediment have settled and water clarity has returned.
During periods of long sustained low river flows, cooler water temperatures and minimal insect activity, trout sustenance becomes less available to our resident fish.  Common sense tells us that fish of sufficient size can only sustain themselves for a period of time on small aquatic insects like Midges and Midge Larvae.  Other dietary consumptions are required.
When weather incidences occur and a rush of water filters through the river system, a variety of food sources not present before hand in the water column becomes vulnerable and available during these periods. 
Generally these food forms are present for several days following. This creates more feeding opportunities for fish as they feed indiscriminately on these sources.

"Current Insect Activity"


Baetis Nymph
Midges

Skwala Nymph
Sculpins

Caddis Pupa


"Pic Of The Week"

Blackstone Lake Rainbow

Blackstone

Yakima



W.B.F.C Pro-Shop Hours Of Operation

8:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m

7 Days A Week


"Yakima River Flows"


Easton Flow 450 cfs.
Cle Elum Flow 695 cfs.
Teanaway Flow 315 cfs.
Eburg Flow 1075 cfs.
Umtanum Flow 1070 cfs.

Cased Caddis, several strains of Mayfly nymphs, Sculpins as well as Stonefly nymphs all become a viable food source for Yakima fish during these periods.  Once the river settles and returns to normal winter flows, trout displaced by the higher flows will once again congregate throughout the winter runs of the river.  Aquatic insects will settle and the diverse feeding opportunities will diminish.  Whitefish active in their spawning rituals will resume their activity as well.
A Worley Bugger Fly Tying course will be held after the new year.  If interested, please feel free to contact the pro shop in Ellensburg for more information.
Are you still looking for the perfect Christmas gift this year?  May we suggest a Guided Tour Gift Certificate from Worley Bugger Fly Co.  Presented to a loved one, employee or friend on Christmas Day makes the perfect present.  Guided tour gift certificates can be purchased securely online or by simply calling the pro-shop (888-952-FISH).  For questions or assistance, feel free to contact the Worley Bugger pro shop.  Guided Tour Gift Certificates are available for the Yakima River, Klickitat River & Blackstone Lake tours.  Gift Certificates are also available for pro shop merchandise.  Happy Holidays from the staff and management of Worley Bugger Fly Co.!

December 1st-2004


As the start of the holiday's season begins, a light dusting of snow now covers the Kittitas Valley hillsides. Many fly anglers stow their gear at the first signs of cold or changing weather, much to early for this centrally located desert river.  The 2004 fishing season still has plenty of life in it yet.  Mild, blue bird fishing days through the month of November kept aquatic insect hatches alive and fish active and attentive to the fly.
The daily Baetis hatches have begun to slow throughout the lower portions of the Yakima appearing for only short, sporadic periods of the day or not at all.  However, attentions are still concentrated on creatures of the aquatic nature.  Congregations of Midges are now forming on the Yakima and the river's rainbows are tenuously working in pods as protruding dorsal fins slice the surface of the water.
For those fly fishermen that enjoy the visualization of a wild rainbow slurping tiny naturals from the surface, target the warmest portions of the afternoon for this fish foraging surface activity.  This is intricate, demanding and delicate work with rod and reel, requiring patience and a keen eye for detail.  A long, thin strand of mono presented ever so lightly is perquisite for success.  For most, subsurface methods have proven to be a much more effective.
Stonefly nymphs as usual, continue to be the substantial portion of the Yakima trout's dietary consumptions. This will remain throughout the days of December and January.  Migrations of Skwalla Stone nymphs is an on going event during these winter months. This intense migration of nymphs, leads up to the adult activity during the latter portions of February,  when we begin to see water temperatures increase.

November 10th-2004


Cool, crisp sunrises are now a standard affair each day in the Yakima River Valley.  That extra layer of fleece or wool that has been stored away since spring is needed first thing in the morning under a cover of Gortex.  However, by early afternoon the Kittitas Valley sunshine is warming everything and that early morning added layer of clothing is quickly removed.  The determining colors of Fall cling resiliently to the foliage and trees along the Yakima.  However, it's a losing battle as the once dense disguise falls each day, covering the rocky terrain of the river banks.
Every afternoon, Fall Baetis hatches occur, some lasting hours at a time, while other days a shorter window of opportunity for the emergence is presented.  Each day is different and every section of river provides a variety of unique circumstances.  Sections of the lower river from Ellensburg throughout the lower Yakima River Canyon seem to provide more consistent Baetis hatches on a day to day basis at this time.
Working pods of slurping rainbows with small dries, sometimes as tiny as #22's is common.  For many of the dry fly enthusiasts this is the time of year and the challenge of match the hatch fishing you can experience.  The rainbows have taken up residency in the winter holding waters of the Yakima, where the majority of aquatic food forms are now found. 
Pods or schools of fish are common this time of year due to low water volume, cooler water temperatures and a specific Mayfly hatch commencing.  Find one rainbow and chances are you have found many.  Working nymph rigs first thing in the morning is common and should be expected.  By noon, warming temperatures kindle and it's apparent events are going to begin unfolding.  As a majority of the aquatic insect hatches begin to wind down for the season, bigger Yakima rainbows turn their attentions to another thriving food source.  Baitfish such as Sculpins flourish within the waters of the river and are a consistent resource for fish throughout the year.  They become a much more important form for large fish when aquatic insects emergences become less probable.  Don't neglect your streamer box this time of year!
On Thursday, November 11th a special day commences.  Veterans both past and present are honored on this day for their self sacrifice and service to our great country.  Thanks to all who have served and to those who continue their service risking the ultimate to keep the rest of us safe.  For servicemen and women that read this report and email over sea's----be safe!  From the staff and management of WBFC, thank you and your families for your dedication and service.
For those interested, on November 1st, the guide service of Worley Bugger Fly Co. instituted its winter guiding rates for the months of November, December and January.  Individuals that would still like to fish a full day are still being given that opportunity by starting early in the morning (8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.).  For fair weather fishermen or those that would like to target the specific hatch of dries throughout November can do so with a winter tour.  Check the website rates or call the pro shop for tour details and guide availability.

October 26th-2004


With the last week of October upon us, frost filled morning sunrises are now a daily occurrence throughout  the Yakima River Basin.  The first blanket of new snow has fallen high atop the Cascade Mountain Range. This added addition of color has constructed a spectacular Fall backdrop towering over the Kittitas Valley.
As the Cottonwoods slowly shed there brilliant golden foliage, afternoon hatches of Baetis and Mahogany Dun Mayflies continue to bring slurping rainbows to the surface.  Tiny mayfly imitations in sizes 18 to 20 are standard criteria for your daily fishing. In some areas of the Yakima, a size 22 may be required to match the hatch of Fall Baetis.  Choose a proportionate pattern in the appropriate size to duplicate the natural.  Low light conditions may also be a factor during times of intense Baetis hatches. Another factor to consider.  Select a imitation that is visible fished within the foam lines of the river.  
Concentrate your efforts in the frothy streaks of foam gathering throughout the runs.  Here, tiny mayflies are pulled from the current and find themselves trapped within the confines of the foam.  Trout feed at their discretions on these trapped Fall food forms.  Emerging mayflies also fall victim in these foamy areas as they struggle to break free of a clinging meniscus.  Subsurface patterns fished in the under lying foam can at times be much more productive way to match the rainbows feeding patterns.  Mahogany Duns can also play a dynamic role during this warmer period of the day. 
Constructing a system of two tandem mayflies imitations, one representing the larger natural as your point fly with a trailing blue wing can provide better visibility for the fly fishermen.  It also offers frugal feeding fish a diversity, as you display an array of the natural aquatic insects that are present.  Giant Sedges are still apparent throughout the main stem, however their numbers are beginning to diminish.
The river is in excellent condition with access to a majority of the water available to both wading and or drift fishermen.

October 15th-2004


As brisk, frost filled mornings arise, rays of afternoon sunshine, radiate across the Yakima River Valley.  Cloudless blue skies and temperatures we expected in September have dominated our central basin fly fishing days.  At twilight, brilliant, picturesque sunsets adorn the western skies.  It's the time of year when Mother Nature is really at her best, constructing a canvas of incredible colors along the banks of the river.  The once lush summer vegetation that grew thick under the blistering summer sun is quickly turning, shedding its summer coat. The tall Cottonwood trees that so graciously provide us with a barrier against the harsh Kittitas Valley winds, glow golden along the banks of the Yakima.
However, a change in recent weather patterns is developing and seasonable conditions are predicted to settle in the valley for the next several days.  A welcome site for Fall fly fishing addicts. Cooler days are expected and gladly welcomed as Fall aquatics thrive among the cloud cover. Larger fish feel safe under these conditions and will at times abandon their apprehensions and feed recklessly on the surface during times of heavy hatches.   Several mayflies species in assorted sizes and color are predominate through the Yakima's main stem at this time.  Nymphs, adults and emergers are all equally important food forms to recognize.
Fall Baetis, Lt. Cahill's, and Mahogany Dun mayfly hatches are occurring in the main stem during the fishing day.  Most days you can expect to see the emergence of mayflies commence mid afternoon lasting well into the latter portion of the day.  Baetis are generally the first to appear ranging in size 18 to 22.  Clouds of these olive dun mayflies are gathering in the foam lines of the Yakima for several hours at a time.  A periodic combination of Light Cahill's and Mahogany Duns will appear mixed within the emergence of Fall Baetis.  A fly fishermen's abilities to distinguish and correctly identify the preferred trout forage will be your task for the day.
Blooms of Giant Fall Caddis begin appearing in the late afternoon. Occasional early morning hatches of Giant Orange Sedges can also occur.  If this transpire, the fish are attuned to these large adult caddisflies and the first portion of your day can be dedicated to swinging caddis patterns or skating large dry fly imitations.

September 30th-2004


With the first week of Autumn underway, warm sun filled fishing days have embraced the Yakima River Valley. The cool, crisp mornings however are a reminder that Fall is quickly approaching.  As the month of October begins, daily occasions like these have become renowned on Central Washington's trout river.
Warm, breezeless days, low water volumes throughout the main stem, a mishmash, picturesque setting of vibrant colors, and a variety of insect hatches are all coinciding together at this time.
It's also the time when Fall anadromous fish breach the latter at Roza Dam and begin the rites of procreation.   Fall Kings have moved into specified areas of the Yakima and are ambitiously procuring areas of the river for spawning purposes.  Thou some may believe the Salmon are harmful for the Yakima and its resident rainbows nothing could be further from the truth.  These large fish provide nutrients for both fish and aquatic insects, nurturing the stream bed while providing an additional means of forage for all the rivers inhabitants. 
Over the next several weeks while wading the shallows of the river, pay close attention to areas where redds are or have been formed.  Avoid damaging these areas where time and energies have been consumed by these great fish.
Light Cahill Mayflies, Giant Orange Sedge Caddis, Fall Baetis and a sporadic occurrence of Mahogany Duns are the aquatic fare emerging throughout the fishing day.   Cahill's, Baetis and Mahoganies are an early afternoon affair.  The Giant Fall Caddis are a dawn and dusk event, taking place in key areas of the Yakima where large numbers of these spectacular Caddisflies exist.  Upper areas of the river are prone to intensive nightly dances, while lower Canyon stretches provide an adequate presence of sedges.

September 20th-2004


As the days of September quickly fade away, evident changes are occurring throughout the Yakima River Valley.   With blistering summer heat dominating the entire month of August, an odd occurrence in weather is now presiding across the Eastern Basin.  Unseasonable Fall like mornings and cool crisp fishing days are an unordinary  occurrence for this time of year.  Wet, drizzle filled days haven't been uncommon either as one front after another moves across the Kittitas Mountain sides.  These wet conditions however are creating an ideal situation. Over cast fishing days are prompting an intense hatch of Baetis Mayflies as they literally cover the surface of the river. The trout eagerly anticipate this daily monumental feeding opportunity.   Light Cahill Mayflies are also beginning to emerge in areas of the Yakima.  If encountered, this pale mayfly can provide some afternoon top water casting activity.
With river flows at an unusual seasonal low, foot fishermen wading the Yakima from bank to bank will find worry free access through most of the main stem.  Deep ledges and pools still exist, so move around these areas carefully.  Boat fishermen won't experience any problems either as long as you adhere to the main stem.   One area of the upper Yakima (East Cle Elum Boat Launch above the Teanaway) is at this time barricaded by fallen timbers and jams, so it should be avoided until the problem is corrected.  Several fishermen have been held up for hours trying to portage around the mess of logs.
With the cooler weather settling into the valley, Terrestrials as well as the Stonefly fishing has begun to slow.  During warmer afternoons you may find fish receptive to larger dry fly imitation in some area's of the river where dense thick grasses and adequate bank water exist.  Bushy dry fly patterns fished as a point fly with a extended bead head dropper has been effective in the right water depths.  In deeper runs and pockets avoid this technique.  Indictor fishing in the deeper runs and pools is much more efficient.  Fish the appropriate and productive method for each set of circumstances you experience throughout the runs of the river.
Its the time of year when Giant Orange Sedge Caddis become a mainstay in the trout's daily diet.  A good hatch of adult sedge's is now occurring in the portion of the Upper Yakima.   Pupa patterns are especially important and should not be overlooked, especially during the latter portion of your fishing day.  Free floating Sedge Caddis will at many times break free of the case and swim throughout the water column, providing a big, easy target for the Yakima rainbow.

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"Giant Orange Sedge Pupa-Adult"

With the steady drop in temperatures, the still water fisheries of the central desert are beginning to provide good fishing opportunities once again.  Damselfly activity is still on going on the warmer September days.  Midge and Callibeatis Mayflies are forming the most interest during the fishing day, especially periods of wet, cool weather.  Blackstone Lake is no exception.  Terrestrial fishing is beginning to slow at the private still water fishery, however fish are feisty and foraging throughout the day.
Since the month of June, a good portion of my off days have been spent in the southeastern portion of the state.  The Klickitat River becomes a constant distraction for us as Steelhead begin moving into it's waters.  The June opener started out slow this year as fish counts remained low.  We had some successes towards the end of June as better numbers of fish began to move into the system. However, between fluctuating water conditions and unusual summer winds, water flows remained high creating the white glacier discoloration the "Klick" is famous for. 
The Klickitat hasn't been immune to the recent rain storms we have been receiving in the Kittitas Valley either.  However, drier conditions in that portion of the state and cool, crisp nights in the Lower Columbia Basin are providing ideal conditions for Klickitat River Steelhead fishing.  For those interested in experiencing this fabulous river this Fall, please call ahead.  We would love to show you the splendor of this beautiful Fall Fishery.

September 8th-2004


A host of circumstances is now evolving on Central Washington's Blue Ribbon trout stream. The Fall flip flop has been initiated, as the Yakima's river volume continues to recede.  As the beginning of September commences, cooler nights as well as comfortable, warm day time highs are having a direct effect on aquatic life as well as water temperatures.
As terrestrial life forms continue to prosper in the tall, summer river grasses of the Yakima, aquatic insects have once again become a inherit commodity for the Yakima rainbows.  Daily feasts no longer reside with just grasshoppers, ants, beetles or bees.  Attentions are turning to a food form living within the water column of the river easily available to the Yakima Rainbows .  Don't count the Terrestrial activity out yet.  Its still much to early to dismiss their importance.  Warm sunny days and inviting afternoon breezes are still making this food form a valuable asset among the trout.  However, intense hatches of Fall Baetis are occurring throughout the main stem, Yakima. 
Over the past week, giant Shortwing Stones have been taking to flight across the waters of the Yakima.  Activity as of yet has been erratic from day to day, however as the river volume continues on the down turn, one can expect this hustling activity to dramatically increase.  The warmer days will of course produce stonefly activity, especially stagnate areas of the river showing no signs of a light, afternoon breeze.  Stoneflies readily take to flight at these times taking advantage of the windless circumstances.
With the absence of the grueling August heat, water temperatures among the still waters of the central basin desert are also rapidly descending.  Blackstone Lake, Central Washington's premier, private still water is now open for Fall fishing. Dry fly activity at the lake is outrageous!  Seventy degree days are producing immense damsel fly hatches lasting half the day.  Giant Hoppers as well as other terrestrial creatures are abundant along the banks of the lake as well.  Flying ants living within the Cottonwood trees are a treat for the rainbows as well as the fly fishermen.  As the days progress and Fall begins to settle into the valley, Chironomid hatches will once again become abundant.  Bookings on the lake are being taken and days are filling.  Please call early to arrange your day at Blackstone Lake with Worley Bugger.
Fall is in the air and is visible in the vegetation and leaves along the river.  Most of the trees still remain covered in summer color, however lighter shades are appearing on the branches almost daily.  Water flows are now low.  For those on foot fishermen constricted to the banks since early July, access is now unlimited to most of the productive water on the river.

August 24th-2004


The triple digit heat that occupied the Yakima River Valley has now been replaced by cooler, sometimes wet, drizzle filled days. A reprieve from the heat arrived over the weekend and is expected to last into the week.  A welcome site this time of year.  The cooling effect has created a blanket of cloudy cover, prompting overcast fishing days.  This cooler weather pattern has in turn reduced the high water temperature as we watch it's decline.  A welcome site after hovering above the (70˚) seventy degree mark for the past week.
The river flows have continued on a gradually descent each day as well, operating at an unusual low volume for this time of year. However, through most area's of the lower main stem, the river remains high for adequate, safe wade fishing.  If the normal procedures follow, one can expect the ""Flip Flop"" operations of the reservoirs to commence around the first portion of September.
Terrestrial life forms continue to be a mainstay in the trout's diet.  Hoppers in a variety of colors (yellow, olive, red and gray) have produced fine results over the past week. 

A summer afternoon breeze the past couple of days has provided the necessary ingredient to produce consistent top water action.

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"Shortwing Stone-August 2004"

One may encounter a Caddis hatch commencing at dusk, however each section of the river is not consistently producing a guaranteed emergence from day to day. 

If a bloom of Caddis does materialize,  a bleached wing or a high riding imitation visible in the low light conditions will fish well for you.

Stonefly nymphs in abundance are providing an added sustenance as we eagerly anticipate the final stonefly hatch of the season. The male "Shortwing Stones" have been anxiously congregating along the banks of the Yakima, impatiently awaiting the arrival of it's much larger mate.  Migration usually commences during the middle of August and by the first parts of September these gigantic females are taking flight across the waters of the main stem Yakima.  This year, we expect their presence any day. (see above photo)
The Worley Bugger Fly Co. professional guide service bookings are filling quickly for Fall fishing at Blackstone Lake, the Yakima and Klickitat Rivers.   We encourage everyone that would like to experience these fabulous fisheries this Fall with the Worley Bugger, to plan ahead and call us well in advance.

August 13th-2004


As the 3rd week of August arrives, conditions on Central Washington's Yakima River have begun to dramatically turn.  Soggy, over cast days have been replaced with sweltering triple digit weather.  The large brush and forest fires that burned out of control for a number of days, filling the Kittitas Valley with smoke, creating an over cast appearance have finally been extinguished.  However, the effects are visually apparent along the high ridge tops of the upper county as well as the Bristol Flats area of the river.
The hot scorching weather has diminished the aquatic insect activity during the heat of the day, although other fare is readily available to the rainbows of the Yakima.  Terrestrial life forms become a valuable food source for the fish this time of year.  These include an assortment of small to large ground dwelling insects ranging from brightly colored grasshoppers to the smallest of black and red ants.  A warm, summer breeze blowing in the afternoon is a welcome site to fly casters this time of year.
The river volume through the first days of July rose quickly as water demands were filled for Yakima River Valley fruit and hay growers.  Huge pushes of water coursed through the main stem of the river, draining the storage holding faculties of the upper Yakima.  Now, with summer air temperatures on the rise and water flows on a quick descent, water temperatures have taken a significant increase.  With night time lows reaching only the mid 60's, mark, stream temperatures have become seasonably warm.
The larger fish are hunkered down, holding in deeper, faster oxygenated waters or near incoming cool under ground springs during the day.  Weighted nymph imitations will most likely be your best option. Smaller, bank feeding trout haven't been troubled with the increase in water temperature and lie in wait of an easy meal.  You will find they enthusiastically attack surface flies at any opportune time of the day.  Lush, green vegetation has thickened significantly over the past week, so fly casters drifting from a boat have a distinct advantage working the grassy shoreline were these fish have taken up residency.
As day time temperatures begin to cool, dazzling, orange colored sunsets adorn the western sky and summer Caddis hatches will form.  Egg laying Caddis dance atop the water as fish react to the excitement.   A especially nice way to spend a warm, summer evening.

July 29th-2004


As a smoke filled haze lingers over the Kittitas Valley, numerous wild fires around the central area of the state burn wildly out of control.   Several large brush and wild fires have been contained, however more are still burning along the foothills of the Cascades, generating a cloudy, overcast appearance around the valley.
With temperatures hovering just below the triple digit figure most days, the high volume of water that is flushing through the main stem is keeping water temperatures at a fishable condition.  The majority of our fishing guests are now wet wading throughout the day, utilizing only a felt wading boot for stability on the slippery river bottom.
As flows continue to operating at summer capacity, foot fishermen are going to find the are mainly constricted to the over grown, grassy river banks.  Those floating have a strategic advantage over foot and fish.  Boat fishermen can concentrate on key holding areas of the river bank, braids and sections of stream unobtainable this time of year by shore fishermen.  Boat fishing is a far more productive way to fish, but not always an option for everyone.  For those on foot, focus your efforts on the braided areas of the river.  Here, high water flows are usually broken up and become accessible for foot fishermen.
During the heat of the day, the aquatic insect activity is sparse with just a few lingering  morning Caddis, some Yellow Sallie's and a sporadic emergence of Pale Morning Duns.  The female Short-Wing Stones are also taking flight during the hot afternoons, but at this point in relatively small numbers.  This however does not imply slow fishing during the hottest portion of the day.  Fishing for us has remained consistent during the hot part of the day working nymphs, streamers and dry flies.
When fishing the Yakima or any other river or stream, a fly fishermen must discriminate between water types.  What is good nymph water, what is good dry fly water and what is good streamer water.  Rarely is it all three.   Being able to distinguish these types of fishable water is the key to successful fishing during any portion of the day.  Your job or the responsibility of your guide is to differentiate between these water types and produce fish throughout the entire day.  Reading water is a fundamental part of fly fishing that we must all learn.  In order to be successful with a variety of fly fishing techniques, you must be versatile, open minded and learn the basis essentials in order to successful in your fishing.

July 22nd-2004


With river flows continuing on a furious pace, pushing snug against of the well worn banks of the Yakima, summer volumes have begun to drop, at least for the time being.  The river volume at times has been exceeding even summer time levels for the past several weeks, providing cooler water for the trout as well as ideal, shady holding lies.
Warm, sunny days are providing the essential ingredients needed to generate a thick over growth along the banks of the river.  This in turn is procuring a refuge for small terrestrial insects.  Its that time of the season where afternoon aquatic hatches are sparse with just a few P.M.D.'s and Yellow Sallies hatching.  Bank hugging rainbows are burrowed up tight against the green grassy, awaiting a feeding opportunity.   Ants, beetles and grasshopper are standard forage during the warm days of July and August.  An unfortunate incident, a small gust of afternoon breeze or a sudden plight in the wrong direction is all it takes for these summer time feastables to become an afternoon delicacy for the Yakima rainbows.
These are key areas of the river, where dry fly fishermen can find fortune.  It takes works to achieve the perfect drift.  The Yakima won't tolerate a lazy fly fisher, no matter what time of year you fish.   Accurate dead on casts, drag free along this summer time habitat is critical for success.  These grassy areas are ideal, providing adequate cover as well as a ample food supply.  However, don't be mistaken. Not all grassy banks are prime areas for trout this time of year.  Concentrate on the banks that offer the key essentials for trout summer time holding water.
The large, female Shortwing Stones made their first initial appearance on the river this past week.  This is only the beginning of what looks to be a well drawn out hatch of summer stoneflies.  Nymph casing literally, litter the rocks, driftwood and other debris along the Yakima's shoreline.  It shouldn't be long and fish will be looking for those big fluttering dry flies.
The summer Caddis have begun as well, first appearing in numbers during the early evening with sparse emeger action and erupting into a bloom of activity just before dusk.  Most days, if the evening winds are calm, the commotion begins about 7:00 p.m. providing several hours of entertainment.

July 10th-2004


Perfect sunny, summer time weather now prevails across the Central Washington Basin, as day time temperatures soar to the mid eighty degree mark each day.   The water volume continues to operate at peak summer time levels.  With the lush, green vegetation growing along the banks of the river, terrestrials have now become a viable importance for Yakima River fly fishing.
The tall grasses are home to several varieties of insect life, which have become a highly valuable food source for the Yakima's rainbows.  An afternoon westerly breeze can hurl many of these small, vulnerable creatures easily into the river, where they fast become belly filling forage.  Dry fly fishing with terrestrial imitations and other attractor representations have provided mid day excitement throughout the week.
Another food form has also caught the keen eye of the resident rainbows.  The "Male" Shortwing Stones that were amassing along the banks have begun splitting free of their nymphal exoskeleton.  A mass gathering of along the river banks of adult males is now occurring.   Here they lie in wait for the arrival of the larger, fully winged mate.
The nymph migration has been on going, arriving early to the river this season.  Probably due in part to the lower water volumes the river experienced during the month of June. 

Typically, we begin to see the presences of summer stonefly nymphs around the middle of August.  As these large sized stoneflies exodus the Yakima waters, trout eagerly anticipate their movements.

 

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"Yakima-Shortwing Stone-Male"

 

Stonefly nymph migrations on the Yakima generally occurrin