Fishing Reports
Jackson Hole/Snake River | Yellowstone National Park | Green River

Snake River 

For the 2009 fishing year, the Yellowstone Area encountered superb water flows and the area experienced another fine fishing season. Funny how that goes; when you have good water years, you have good fishing years.  Recent drought years have brought unwarranted expectations of fishermen new to the area. Their resolute thought that it is normal for Yellowstone waters to fish much earlier than they once did, is not necessarily true and certainly not for 2009.Last season mirrored closely to 2008 as far as when rivers cleared and started to fish, much more like when the old-timers talk about the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s.

Spring fishing (late February, March, and April) was good and dependable, but when run-off hit the Yellowstone country, it did resemble the old days and it took awhile for river and streams to get into shape. Overall fishing in Yellowstone Park was steady and we even saw the Firehole produce several fish over 20 inches…..very big fish for the Firehole.  The renowned Henry’s Fork Salmonfly hatch didn’t really amount to much, but the Ranch fished well and steadily gave up enormous fish. Another great year for the South Fork, great hatches and big fish. Even though fishing the Pinedale area was a little inconsistent in 2009, it spun out some real monsters. 

More good news for the Snake and the Jackson Hole Valley is our winter water situation. Presently Jackson Lake is 74% full and Palisades Reservoir is at 71%. Damn releases are 457cfs and 1830cfs, respectively. The Bureau of Reclamation is projecting that these almost ideal winter flows should hold throughout the winter.

High Country Flies would like thank everyone for their continued years of support. The 2009 fishing season was a good one and in general, last year, we saw much more positive attitudes toward global concerns. We are anticipating this optimistic mind set to continue for 2010 and hope the fishing for this coming season is every bit of 2009. And, with some luck, we hope to see all of you next year. High Country Flies wishes all a jolly old Holiday Season!!   

Until next time, here’s to you and yours, have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,

Howard Cole