SUMMERS FADE AND ROSES DIE
October 2022
UPDATED 10/21/2022
It’s been a deceivingly warm Friday afternoon here in Ennis, Montana. Our long-lasting Indian Summer seems to be coming to an abrupt end as this weekend's weather is everything but balmy. Hunters are beginning to walk the mean streets of downtown by the one’s and two’s, accompanied by a sea of orange that would rival a sold out game at Neyland Stadium of all places. There’s a bustle in the air that can’t be missed! Swing on by Trout Stalkers tonight for some of Mike Lum’s world famous, yes, world famous award-winning chili. You do not want to miss out folks!
The Madison River Fishing Company decided to play a little hooky this week and took to the river as a team for the final group float of the season. Dry flies were thrown, streamers were chucked, and legend has it that Nicko even threw on a worm. The point is, fish are eating just about whatever you want to throw at them. Downsizing leader and tippet is often a great move as we move into the colder months of the year. Cloudier days much like what is forecasted can produce next-level baetis dry fly action.
Flows at Cameron have been consistent at 970 CFS for the last week. Water temperatures have fluctuated between 45°F and 52°F, look to see them drop as the weather cools into next week. River traffic is beginning to ever so slightly dwindle into its usual pace. The beauty of the valley is unmatched at the moment. Fall foliage is on full display up and down the river. Get out there and get it done (While taking in the view now and then of course)!
Streamers: Mini Dungeon Black and Olive, Silk Kitty White and Tan, Mini D&D White/Pearl, Peanut Envy Olive and Black, El Sculpito Olive, Eric’s Smooth Criminal Olive, Sculpin Leech Gray.
Dry Flies: Dornan's Water Walker Royal and Green, X-Stimulator Royal, X-Stimulator Yellow, Holo Humpy Orange, X-Fly Parachute Adams, Royal Ant, Parachute Flying Ant Rust.
Nymphs: Zebra Midge Black and Red, Shop Vac, Tungsten Jig SF-Olive, King Prince, TB Lightning Bug Pearl, Pat’s Rubber Legs Black, Two Bit Stone Dark, Improved Wire Worm Red, Globug Egg Cream.
Looking for some fly tying material to create these patterns? Check out our fly tying collection online or stop by the shop! Continue to practice your best fish handling techniques. Avoid fish pictures for the gram whenever possible so that we can continue to have healthy fish populations for years to come.
- MRFC Guide Danny Eiden
