Fishing is fun!


What is fishing to you? Is it the thrill of catching the fish you are seeking? Is it the suspense of the tug on your line? Is it just being out on the banks of your water, taking it all in while you wet a fly? All of these are what keeps each angler going. Have you ever noticed that your memories made while fishing somehow stick with you? Almost etched into our brain, calling for us to return to experience more. Recently I was able to fish with a guest who truly reminded me of what fishing is to me.

Wanting nothing more than to throw big streamers, Mr. Thomas was beaming when he was introduced. Not knowing what to expect or even what the river looked like, he was like a kid walking into a candy store. In a big southern drawl he explained his love of casting a streamer for the perhaps one opportunity of a fish. This was the start to our two day trip together.
Utilizing one of our private access points on the river, staying in front of most boat traffic in mind, we pushed off. Throwing a 5” long custom black fly of his own, Mr. Thomas began casting away. Only slowing down every so often to complete one of his stories. The endless conversations between us and past experiences spent on waters we shared, made time fly by. A couple grabs on his fly during these conversations altered the tone of our voices. Excitement and frustration both. This from not hooking whatever made the attempt to eat the meal he presented. As time passed and the further we made it downstream, the more I realized that what we were doing was pretty special. The banks were alive with spring sounds. Only to muffle with our laughter. Switching patterns a few times, we were able to put a couple great fish in the net. Rainbow trout that had some big appetites and attitude problems. As Mr. Thomas kept reminding me, “this is why we do it”. As the day drew to an end, and the boat ramp neared, he sat still in conversation. Not casting. Almost like he was taking in every sight he could see before his first day on the the water ended. All while expressing his excitement for the next day to come.

The next day it was much of the same. The only thing that was different was the backdrop. The Miracle Mile never ceases to amaze me. For Mr. Thomas it was a site he exclaimed he “will never forget”.  The weather wasn’t on our side but we made the most of it by bringing a couple fish to the boat. Once again, on a big custom fly of his own.

I guess in the grand scheme of things, there truly are so many different aspects to fishing. So many sites, sounds, and experiences to have. These are what keep us going. What drives us back to the water. And in the end, fuels our passion for fly fishing. Give us a call and book your stay. Let us help you fuel your passion.

The Guide Report


In the recent weeks, there has been some unbelievable and tragic flooding in the United States. From Nebraska, South Dakota into Montana and North Dakota. Ice jams and high waters have devastated many of our great country towns, cities and farmlands. Our heart goes out to all who are hurting. If you are wanting to help in any way. There are a few ways. From food and clothing donations all the way to aid and relief donations. Check with your local area to see how to help or Click the links below to learn more.

https://www.redcross.org/about-us/our-work/disaster-relief/flood-relief.html

https://criout.com/donate/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwhPfkBRD0ARIsAAcYycH3iQ7ZV-_MS17q8riM2-6kFGmiOca0EGWgkYAoKCe3PMDUV65d2b8aAq2bEALw_wcB

Here in Alcova we are fortunate to not have these events happening to us. There is a series of lakes and bottom release dams upstream of Alcova. That and being relatively in close proximity to each other, this keeps flooding at bay. There is some ice that forms further downstream from Grey reef dam but because of the low flows and not a lot of run off in the drainages entering the river, these devastating ice jams are not formed like they are in large rivers across our nation. We have received quite a few phone calls asking if we are affected by these and we appreciate the concern of everyone. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who are not as fortunate. 

Etiquette – noun; the customary code of polite behavior in a society or among members of a particular profession or group.

For many years, guys have been “rowing” around this topic. River etiquette and respectfully fishing around others. At any time, and for many reasons, certain stretches of the North Platte River can get a little busy. Boats can get bottle necked up in runs and wade fishermen and women can get stacked along the banks. That being said, it is easy for frustrations to ensue. This can be easily avoided if everyone is on the same page. First off, be polite. Have you ever heard the term, “respect is earned, not given”? It is simple, treat anglers with the same respect and curtesy that you would like to have. This applies here to the max. Move over for anglers and give them space. Now, we all understand that sometimes this is unavoidable. Obstacles in the way to prevent you from maneuvering without hitting. All the way to weather conditions. This brings up the next topic: Be vocal. If you have to move a certain direction and are unable to give the wade fishermen space, let them know. Just don’t assume that everyone knows. Many anglers have never rowed a boat and do not understand this. By having a quick, respectful conversation with everyone, letting them know, it will be very much appreciated. All of this applies to other boaters. When a boat is in a stretch on a certain line, follow them. And if you don’t know where they were fishing, ask. It is all the etiquette of the anglers and guides that can make every one’s experiences that much better. 

It was a awesome stretch of weather we just had for a few straight days. Very little wind. Not kidding, almost no wind. Sunny days. And happy fishermen. This beckoned anglers from all over to get out and enjoy it. The Spring Flush started today and it couldn’t have happened at a more opportune time. The North Platte river, downstream from the Lusby access take out has been dirty all the way to town. The recent warm weather meting away snow along the banks and drainages making it muddy. The flush will help move that dirty water away faster giving everyone the opportunity to spread out and fish about anywhere. However, as we are updating you as we speak, we are getting hit with yet another spring snow storm. A wet heavy snow has covered us up and is continuing to come down. Its only supposed to last for today but it is definitely nice to get all this moisture. If you haven’t done so and are looking to get some days in on the North Platte. Give us a call and get your trips booked. We hope to see you out there.

Best Grey Reef August Conditions EVER


Central Wyoming Fly Fishing is kicking butt and taking names. North Platte River conditions are better than I have ever seen them at this point in the season. Water is CLEAR at Grey Reef, Miracle Mile and Fremont Canyon. Fluorcarbon tippet will make a big difference in production. Miracle Mile is 1000cfs and clear with no tanic brown that is usual for this time of year. Fremont is again clear and dry/dropper rigs tricking them nicely. Grey Reef is also clear with light algae growth…far less than normal. Streamer and dry fly activity is strong and the nymphing is stellar. We are so excited about these conditions because not only is the fishing incredible currently but this makes the remainder of the season a no-brainer. We will continue with fun dry fly sessions and the streamer activity will only get better. The size of the fish at all venues has been great as well. Lots of 20″ trout with a lot of weight.

Pic: An example of what the guides are seeing daily. This from JJ’s boat this past week.

Central Wyoming Fly Fishing Report


Grey Reef Fly Fishing is very good and river conditions couldn’t be better. Clear water and 1500cfs with water temps in the mid 40s. Fishing is consistent in the AM, very robust throughout the middle portion of the day with the emergence of our besties the baetis and the late afternoon has been a slowdown after they have demolished all of the blue winged olives (baetis). Streamer activity not great but all it takes is one or two fish to make an uneventful session into a great memory. As was the case with Trent and Beau a couple eves ago.

Fremont Canyon has some excellent baetis dry fly and emerger rig opportunities. Go armed with light tippet and bugs that look like naturals or aren’t too gaudy. Get rid of your bright indicator and ease in with a small chunk of white or black yarn OR go old school swinging a Reef’s Pulsating Emerger! Most Grey Reef pro anglers will tell you 2x and a pegged bead is the only way but you will discover a whole lot more to these fisheries once you sit back and watch a bit. Discovery is the essence of fly fishing!

Miracle Mile is fishing fair and there are good midge and beginning baetis on that stretch as well. Scour the inside 3′ depth before trudging out to the slot…they are in there.

Remember to kindly ignore fishing to active spawners!

Pic: Trent handling his new best friend

Wyoming’s Grey Reef and Miracle Mile Fly Fishing Report


Grey Reef Fly Fishing report was cold and nasty yesterday with lots of Wyoming roads closed. We had to push a number of trips as Grey Reef anglers couldn’t get to the area. Miracle Mile fly fishing conditions are good but the roads are poor. Leave those alone for a day or three. With the winter weather all across Wyoming, the fishing was still excellent. A couple rounds of midges had fish on and very near the surface. Of course the beatis were doing their thing but midges have been very prolific and important. The Grey Reef section of the North Platte River is in great fishing condition and the sections below Government Bridge have improved dramatically…even into Casper. Casper Mountain received 20″ of snow so we should expect poor conditions below the Grey Reef section again as that snow melts. We would be very happy if the BuRec decided to push a little extra water down the North Platte River to give the fish a little more room and spread things out. This would also help IF we get some dirty water associated with the latest storm.The Fremont Canyon fishing report is great but a tad more busy.

Short/light emerger rigs with a PAL and UV Crystal Midge has been super productive. Our Rhinestone has also been a hyper performer. Lighter rods are not a bad idea as the a compliant tip help to hold the aggressive Grey Reef trout. Don’t get too flashy the fish can see everything and don’t need big obnoxious flies to be noticed. We have had some good dry fly opportunities and the streamer fishing has been hit or miss. Swinging and stripping emergers has been pretty dang fun!

We do have some Grey Reef cottage availability and guides next week. We do have a lodge spot available over Memorial Day weekend as well. We have 2 weekend lodge spots in June and then we are pretty snug until the 23rd of August. We do have a full lodge option at that point.

Grey Reef Fly Fishing Report


Fly fishing Grey Reef was a tough proposition yesterday. Winds over the North Platte River Valley were nuking. Of course, Jackson was in the midst of a huge snow event…that’s how it works. We had a little rain last night and this AM is calm. We do have guide boats on the water today and will get a report as soon as possible. In the meantime a standard nymph rig with a scud, leech, worm and midge is a slam dunk. 6-8′ leaders and a bit of weight. Slow deep tailouts and seems are the place to concentrate most of your efforts. But, as the hatch is in full swing snug up into the drops and riffles. A slow retrieve on a streamer rig has also been good. Keep the streamer low and level!

Spring is fast upon us and we are expecting our typical excellent fishing. Call 307.237.1182 if you are interested in a full lodge package, cottages or guided fly fishing. Our early season specials run through March 31st. Day trips are $350, a day trip and one night in a cottage is $450, two nights one day is only $525. Plus you get 17 miles of exclusive Grey Reef fishing access and an awesome location/accommodations.

We are offering bed and breakfast specials at the North Platte Lodge for early season. If you are bringing a group and all want to be in one location(the best) we can take take care of you regardless if you are fishing with us or not or not fishing at all. Our facility makes a great corporate retreat.

Wyoming Fly Fishing Report


The Grey Reef crew worked them yesterday. North Platte River was warm and bluebird with a little wind but the fishing was very good. No new news on the bugs of choice EXCEPT you should check out a few of our patterns newly released for sale in the shop. The Mayhem Midge comes to mind. These new patterns combine elements of simplicity, durability and the things that we love about FLY  FISHING. So much fun to learn about the nature and behavior of trout and go outside the box. Fish pushing into unusual areas and continually suspending very high in the water column to take advantage of the hatch. We like flies that will preform from the bottom to the film and everything in between.

It appears the Wyoming Fishing Regulations may have been amended to make enforcement of pinned bead/snagging rigs much easier. We will see how this plays out?

North Platte Lodge has a few very nice April availabilities. April is arguably the most desirable month on Grey Reef and Miracle Mile. Call for dates and package prices.

North Platte River Fly Fishing Report


Yesterday was quiet on Grey Reef despite very nice conditions. Today is touch windy over the Alcova region. We will have guides on the water today and will post their findings as they report.

Grey Reef Fishing Report


Grey Reef fishing was very good yesterday. Report from the guides was consistent and non-stop activity. Just how we like it. Alcova received a couple inches of snow overnight but not enough to cause concern. Wyoming HWY 220 is slick but that should be remedied with a little sun this AM. No fishing report from Miracle Mile or Fremont Canyon yesterday but there is no reason for those to be less than great. Our off season Grey Reef fishing and lodging packages are a great inexpensive getaway…not to mention the fishing in the winter is generally excellent. Quiet and peaceful is the upper North Platte River during the winter months.

Grey Reef Fishing Report


Grey Reef is expecting a little snow over the next 24 hours so will be prime fishing conditions. Dropping pressure generally accompanies calm conditions and excited fish. The North Platte River is open and floating the upper is good to go. This weekend is looking very nice and we do have a cottage still available. Same winter rigs as always and on calm days the midges hatch brings them to the surface. The dry fly fishing is finicky but a great challenge. Miracle Mile fly fishing is productive and the roads are currently in good shape. Fremont Canyon is also fishing well and well worth the quick trip up there.

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