Gunpowder Stream Report and Great Feathers Fly Shop Blog

The water conditions are relatively unchanged. In Parkton, the flows are hovering around 32cfs and the temperature was 58 degrees. At Glencoe Rd., the flow was 68cfs. and the temperature was 68 degrees. These conditions are expected to stay constant for the next few weeks. Any fluctuations would result from excessive rain fall totals which has been scarce. Afternoon and evening thunderstorms are forcasted for the near-future and may provide some needed water.

The fishing has been fairly consistant. With the low water, fish will congragate in the deeper flows and holes. Smaller fish will be scattered throughout the river. Presentation continues to be the most important aspect of good results. Keeping drag off of the fly through mending and close attention to the line on the water will assure best results. High-stick nymphing with little line on the water will eliminate most of the drag concern. Patience and honing your techniques are the keys. Take the time to do it right and your efforts will be rewarded. Reading the water is also important in catching better fish. Shallows and long slow flats will hold few fish. The bubble line on the water will tell you where the fish are. Higher temps and low flows push fish to areas where there is more dissolved oxygen in the water.

Nymphs work well during the heat of the day; pheasant tails, copper john, hares ear and caddis pupa in sizes 16 through 20. Drys are working better in the mornings and evenings. Terrestrials are becoming better bets including drowned ant patterns and beetles. Caddis drys are also working great.