Gunpowder Stream Report and Great Feathers Fly Shop Blog

The best time of the year to fish is now, but the water flow is the flows have been cut back. Parkton gauge is at 31cfs and Glencoe is78cfs. The water is cold and clear, so now is the time to refine and perfect your presentation.

With the flows being down, there is a greater emphasis on an attention to the details. Presentation is always the most important aspect of productive fishing. Now is the time to make sure you are doing things properly. Due to the low flow and great clarity, the fish are very spooky and will be in the deeper holes. Using florocarbon leaders for nymphing is a good idea and going with finer and longer leaders is recommended. Drag-free floats are essential!! Be stealthy in your approach and try to be more accurate in your casts. Persistance will pay off.

As for fly selection, the caddis are still a go-to. Sizes from 16 to 20 in grey, tan and olive are the best. Midges are the most abundant right now and aside from going small, these are always a great fly. Griffiths gnat in 18 to 22 is a great choice. Nymphs and wets in the smaller sizes will also produce. If we get enough rain and the water gets a bit off-color, go with streamers.