Gunpowder Stream Report and Great Feathers Fly Shop Blog

Winter does not want to leave as quickly as the fisherman would like it. The light snow last night dropped water temps two to 3 degrees in the Gunpowder River and the prospect of more snow today through Monday will likely keep the conditions cold and clear.

Sunday morning the water temperature at the Bunker Hill bridge was 37 degrees and Glencoe Rd. was about the same. The water was crystal clear and the new snow made for great wintery scenery. Unfortunately, there were visable insects and light snow made it difficult to see. The flows have fluctuated a bit, but are still at very reasonable rates; Parkton was 62cfs. and Glencoe, 121cfs.

The snow that is forcast is to be measurable, but who knows what that really means. We will wait and see, but forcasts say that temperatures will rebound this week. Clairty in the lower River will may become murky due to melt and run-off.

As for fly selections, there are not great changes. Stoneflies, nymphs, midges and dark streamers are the standard fare. A suggestion for fishing nymphs in these conditions is to use high-sticking technique and use longer rods. Ten foot rods are becoming very popular for these reasons. You want to stay in contact with your flies meaning you want greater control of the drifts. Throwing too much line allows for greater difficulty in "feeling" through the line as well as limiting your visual cues when the strikes occur. Make shorter and more repetative casts for your drifts. The "take" may be subtle and less violent in these conditions, thus you need to have greater awareness of the line, both in the hand and visually. Being in control of some of the variables will enhance your chances for more hook-ups. Remember that colder conditions slow the metabolism of the fish and consequently, their reactions are diminished as well. Hard, fast sets may pull the fly from their mouths; be patient! Repitition is the key and wait for the take.