San Miguel
Current flows on the San Miguel are 54 cfs at the Placerville gage. While we could use more moisture, water temperatures have stayed in a nice range and fishing has been quite good. Try to avoid fishing downstream of Specie Creek in the afternoon, as mud on the river bottom has caused temperatures to increase by mid afternoon. Fish have been looking up. Try some small hoppers, ants and larger caddis patterns. If you want to fish a dropper, tie on a small Hares Ear, Juju Baetis or Pat's Rubber Leg Stone. Rain is on the way so we expect flows to increase throughout the week along with decreasing daytime temperatures.
Dolores River
The gage in the town of Dolores is currently reporting flows at 91 cfs. This is a pretty nice flow considering the year we have had. Releases from Groundhog Reservoir have been consistent and have certainly helped keep flows higher and water temperatures lower below the West Fork confluence. Dry fly fishing has been really productive from the headwaters all the way to town. Small hoppers, PMDs and light Caddis patterns fished alone have been really effective. Heavy rains are expected over the next 10 days so we anticipate a fantastic end to the summer and sustainable flows going into the fall.
Lower Gunnison
Flows from the canyon have been decreased to 285 cfs and the water temperatures are simply too warm to fish. We will need substantial rain and bigger releases to have a meaningful improvement below the confluence; more on this subject will follow.
Lakes and high country creeks have all been fishing well. Trout Lake, the South Fork of the San Miguel, Barlow Creek, Bear Creek and Coal Creek are all great options right now. With the impending thunderstorms it is important to fish the high country early and get back to the car before lightning arrives.
Miramonte
Miramonte Reservoir was the star of early summer, but warm surface temperatures have driven the trout deep, per normal for late July and August. Check back in mid-September!
Troy Youngfleish
Guide Service Manager
