The Big Hole is in the midst of spring run off, and we expect to see higher flows coming down the valley over the next week. Despite this, clarity remains pretty good. Flows at Maiden Rock are just under 4,500 cfs, and leveling off. On the upper river, Mudd Creek is showing 2,320 and dropping. Clarity is definitely better above Wise River (which is cranking out 600 cfs, currently!), and the floating is easier to manage on the upper river too. At this point, we feel like the conditions on the Big Hole are better than a lot of other local rivers; nobody is having lights out fishing, but folks are still hooking up with some trout, and enjoying the nice weather. If flows continue to drop through this evening, expect the fishing to pick up for the weekend.
So, what's happening with the hatches? We have not yet seen the explosive hatch of Mother's Day Caddis, but be prepared for that at anytime. Last year they did not arrive until Memorial Day weekend. Folks are still seeing a few other mayflies here and there, but dry fly fishing is pretty difficult with the fast flows. We recommend using streamers, and still dredging them down and keeping them along the banks. Don't hesitate to toss a worm on behind your buggers.
A couple reminders: 1. May 20 is the beginning of daily rotational closures on both the Big Hole and Beaverhead. Refer to the regulations to refresh your memory on which stretches close to guides and non-residents on a daily basis. May 20, Saturday, closure is Jerry to Divide. 2. Jerry Creek and Divide boat ramps remain closed. We are really hoping to see asphalt at Jerry Creek on Monday. The crews have moved all of their heavy equipment to Divide, so we anticipate that work to continue next week.
Shuttles available daily, shop hours are 8 AM to 4 PM. Lastly, give us a shout if you are itching to get out with a guide for salmon flies. We still have a few spots open!