The transformation continues as February snows transform the browns and yellows on the SNOTEL snow water equivalent map to the greens and blues we’ve been waiting for. Lately it’s been changing for the better daily as moisture-rich snows continue to accumulate in the high country.

Meanwhile on the MO’ a warm front is moving through. We saw a high of around 9 yesterday. Right now we’re sitting at 45 and will flirt with 50 before the day is done. As is usually the case, the warm up will be accompanied by plenty of wind and while it’s calm now there is a high wind warning in effect from 11 AM today through midnight tomorrow night with southwest winds at 25-35 mph with gusts as high as 65 mph expected.

The wind will likely make fishing conditions less than optimal for the weekend but next week looks ideal with temps in the high 30’s,  a good mix of sun and clouds and at this point not much for wind in the forecast. This is the winter weather we’ve been waiting for!

The water is cold, still just shy of 35 degrees, but  it’s in good shape with flows holding in the 3500 cfs range. Winter rules apply  in spite of warmer air temps as it’s going to take some time to reach those 35 and 36 degree water temps which seem to make all the difference in the world.

Target the slow stuff. Think pink and run deep if you’re going to bobber fish and hit EVERYTHING as the takes can be super subtle in the cold water. Often that slight pause is the take….hit it! An ultra sensitive indicator like a balloon or yarn indi will give you a much better read of what’s happening below and could very well increase your hook-up rate but we tend to keep it simple using the same rigs we fish any other time of year. We are big fans of a 3/4″ Airlock Indicator (or Thingamabobber) and while they may not offer quite as delicate of a presentation I don’t think it makes much of a difference when fishing a deep rig. Again, the big advantage of the more sensitive indicators is that they give you a better read of what’s happening below the surface but it’s not as though you’re going to double your hook ups by ditching the bobber. Regardless of what type of indicator you are using you need to learn to read what it’s telling you, especially this time of year. If you’re waiting for a diving bobber before you set you’re likely missing most of the takes.

Some of our favorite winter nymps; Casne’s Pinkalicious, Pink Weight Fly, Ninch’s Thunderbug, Ninch’s Bubble Yum Scud, Pink Lightning Bug, Firebead sow in pink or grey, Firebead Ray, Pink Amex, Rainbow Czech, Rainbow Warrior, black Zebra, San Juan Worm, soft hackle sow. We’re fully stocked on all of these and MANY more. Pick a pairing you like, find the right water and the right depth and you’re on your way.

Plenty of swinging going on out there as well. Buggers, Polar Leeches and Hot Head Kreelex are all you need but don’t be afraid to experiment with any of the MULTITUDES of other patterns in stock now at Wolf Creek Angler.

Things should improve by next week but if you’re going to give it a go during these next few days please be cautious. The ramps are collectively sketchy and there is a lot of shelf ice everywhere.

Give us a call for current conditions and everything you need to know before you hit the river.