Tag: North Platte River fishing guides

Spring Fly Fishing, Barbless Pledge and the Flushing Flows

Posted on by hosting@thebarkfirm.com

Wyoming is sparsely populated with people but densely populated with trout. The fly fishing at Miracle Mile, Fremont Canyon and Grey Reef is firing on all cylinders. Slowly retrieved streamers are getting some love but the most effective rigs have been a scud/midge nymph rig with pretty light tippet and keeping the midge up in the water column a little bit. The Reef Fly Shop has a great selection of custom foam winged (buoyant) patterns to accomplish this approach. Worms and leeches are also good lead patterns. Miracle Mile has a pretty strong preference for red San Juan Worms or Bead Head Mohair Leeches, Fremont Canyon likes light tippet and a rig with 2 midges. Focusing on soft edges and tailouts is a really good idea but don’t discount shelves and riffles in heavier parts of the daily midge hatch.

Give us a shout if you are shopping for an awesome domestic fly fishing package for 2020. We are easy to fly and drive to and can compete with any destination in the world when it comes to the experience and high quality fishing. We have a great corporate and group option (including reduced rates and airport transportation) as well. We have Grey Reef’s most experienced guide staff, best location and unmatched private access since 1998.

The Flushing Flows are scheduled to begin March 28 and continue for 10 days. Many factors can alter the schedule so expect some changes. Grey Reef Reservoir will be down to the river channel on March 24th.

We pledged to fish barbless over 20 years ago and hope you’ll join us. It is really simple to pinch your barbs and it is the right thing to do for our trout population and catch-and-release fly fishing. Recently we’ve witnessed an uptick of social media accounts almost glorify pictures of trout that are missing parts of their face. This is caused by irresponsible angling. There are many things we can do to reduce the instances of disfigured trout but pinching barbs is the first step. Let’s not make the fish suffer for our lack of ability. Preserve trout faces at Grey Reef and fisheries everywhere by pledging to pinch your and your fishing customers’ barbs.

This brown was proud to swim away with all lips

 

 

Spring Fly Fishing, Barbless Pledge and the Flushing Flows

Posted on by AdminNPL

Wyoming is sparsely populated with people but densely populated with trout. The fly fishing at Miracle Mile, Fremont Canyon and Grey Reef is firing on all cylinders. Slowly retrieved streamers are getting some love but the most effective rigs have been a scud/midge nymph rig with pretty light tippet and keeping the midge up in the water column a little bit. The Reef Fly Shop has a great selection of custom foam winged (buoyant) patterns to accomplish this approach. Worms and leeches are also good lead patterns. Miracle Mile has a pretty strong preference for red San Juan Worms or Bead Head Mohair Leeches, Fremont Canyon likes light tippet and a rig with 2 midges. Focusing on soft edges and tailouts is a really good idea but don’t discount shelves and riffles in heavier parts of the daily midge hatch.

Give us a shout if you are shopping for an awesome domestic fly fishing package for 2020. We are easy to fly and drive to and can compete with any destination in the world when it comes to the experience and high quality fishing. We have a great corporate and group option (including reduced rates and airport transportation) as well. We have Grey Reef’s most experienced guide staff, best location and unmatched private access since 1998.

The Flushing Flows are scheduled to begin March 28 and continue for 10 days. Many factors can alter the schedule so expect some changes. Grey Reef Reservoir will be down to the river channel on March 24th.

We pledged to fish barbless over 20 years ago and hope you’ll join us. It is really simple to pinch your barbs and it is the right thing to do for our trout population and catch-and-release fly fishing. Recently we’ve witnessed an uptick of social media accounts almost glorify pictures of trout that are missing parts of their face. This is caused by irresponsible angling. There are many things we can do to reduce the instances of disfigured trout but pinching barbs is the first step. Let’s not make the fish suffer for our lack of ability. Preserve trout faces at Grey Reef and fisheries everywhere by pledging to pinch your and your fishing customers’ barbs.

This brown was proud to swim away with all lips

 

 

The Guide Report

Posted on by AdminNPL

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.

Snow on Grey Reef, Fish Hiding? Flows Nudged

Posted on by hosting@thebarkfirm.com

North Platte River flows have been bumped Grey Reef flows at 2100cfs and Miracle Mile flows at 1800cfs. Central Wyoming will see no ill consequence from our current weather situation. Grey Reef fly fishing will be in full effect. Will these conditions be for the faith of heart? Probably not. We have had a couple to a few inches of sticky snow over the region and Casper Mountain may see up to 1.5 feet from the extended spring conditions. Our landscape will be transformed by next week. Yesterday is was pretty brown and crunchy and once this snow cooks off we will enjoy green views and even more baetis for our fishy friends to wow us with.

Grey Reef fished well yesterday despite a couple slowdowns. Our anglers were tough and powered through some adverse weather but were rewarded. This is typical spring in Wyoming. While this is an outdoor activity and we take what Mother Nature gives we do understand the desire for some to tailor their trip to her good side. August and September are as good as they come for a couple reasons. The first is consistent and warm weather. Second is the fishing is spectacular. Third is common misconceptions leave the area quiet and with little fishing pressure. Simple as that. October to early November is a little more risky on the weather side but a slam dunk on the Grey Reef, Miracle Mile and Fremont Canyon angling side. Ask our head guide, Seth Kapust, what his favorite time of year to be on the water is and you will get no hesitation. Fall weather conditions are typically amazing but the fishing is what turns his crank. Nymphing short rigs, casting drys to pods of baetis sippers and the consistent and crushing takes of streamer eaters.

 

Wyoming’s Grey Reef and Miracle Mile Fly Fishing Report

Posted on by Grey Reef

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 Blizzard Fishing

Posted on by Grey Reef

Fly Fishing Alcova, Wyoming right now is a practice in winter survival. Temps near zero and a bout 4″ of fluffy snow in the past several hours. Grey Reef is blanketed in white but the sun is poking through on occasion as the snow fades. Impressive midge hatch! Love all the black midges on the white snow it king of makes you stop and rethink the insect world. Miracle Mile will be tougher to access and fishing Fremont Canyon will be relatively easy.

Midges, the name of the game. Learn where and why and be a productive fly fisher for life. The rest comes easy and you won’t even consider going back. Hopefully, the weather cooperates as we have guides scheduled to be on Grey Reef this week. However, we won’t put our guests in an uncomfortable situation. There is no compromise with regard to our dedication to providing the best product on the North Platte River.

Grey Reef Angling Report

Posted on by hosting@thebarkfirm.com

Winter Wyoming fly fishing at its best. Grey Reef is fishing very good with nymph rigs and streamer rigs. Nymphs are very consistent and the streamer activity fluctuates from good to very good. The North Platte River was slushy below Government Bridge yesterday and fully iced at the Narrows. Expect portions of  upper Grey Reef to freeze over with our approaching chilly front. It will be below zero tomorrow eve with a high a couple degrees below zero on Wednesday. Wednesday night will be -10* or so. Thursday and Friday also look chilly.

Grey Reef Fly Fishing Report

Posted on by Grey Reef

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

Posted on by hosting@thebarkfirm.com

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

Posted on by Grey Reef

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.