We've been experiencing the Dog Days of Summer here around Jackson these past few weeks. It's been very hot, and very dry virtually every day since late July. We can usually rely on some wind to help out with the temps, but it's been very calm on the river most days. Even though casting and rowing in the wind can be tough, a good breeze will usually help fishing by blowing terrestrials into the water and by breaking up the surface tension of the water, thus making risers feel more comfortable. No such luck on any wind lately. It's just been stagnant. On top of all of this, massive wildfires to our West have been putting smoke into the valley around the clock. There's been days floating Deadman's to Moose where you can barely even see the Tetons from the river.
Despite all of this, the fishing has been holding up relatively well. On the Snake, I'd stick with smaller Mayfly attractors in the mornings, and then move to the terrestrials in the afternoons. If you're heading to the South Fork, I'd sleep in and make a leisurely start. There's a few PMD's around late in the day, and the terrestrial fishing is decent in the mid-afternoon as well. If you are a very early riser, head down to the Green without your boat, and wade around until late morning for the best chance. The next break in the weather, whether it be rain or a few freezing nights, should bring a new spark to all of these rivers. It was a good wildlife viewing week for me on the Snake. Here's a shot of a great Bull Moose (near the town of Moose), and a Mother and calf Moose crossing a side channel in Teton Park.
I did manage to escape the valley a few days ago with some clients to explore a secret Star Valley float, and thought I had the place to myself...until these three yahoo's came floating down on us :) Jason Sutton, Chris Stump and Brandon Paine...all good guys (and guides) enjoying a day off. Great to see you out there!
