* Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information! These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and we currently don't have a set schedule as to when we update. Please, just because we don't update as often as we like, it doesn't mean that we don't care.
There are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only. Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don't forget to call us if you need any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363
Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly....but we need your HELP!
Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we'll do our best to get them up.
* This is starting to become a broken record for the weekend, but after our low water summer and fall we are not complaining! The weather this week and into the weekend makes us think this is a March report not a mid-January report. With that being said there are a few people messing around with shallow ponds and even catching Bluegills on poppers! This will not last long, but makes for good stories and bragging rights on the first topwater fish of the year. Get outside and take advantage of this weather while it is here.
Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly....but we need your HELP!
Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we'll do our best to get them up.
* This is starting to become a broken record for the weekend, but after our low water summer and fall we are not complaining! The weather this week and into the weekend makes us think this is a March report not a mid-January report. With that being said there are a few people messing around with shallow ponds and even catching Bluegills on poppers! This will not last long, but makes for good stories and bragging rights on the first topwater fish of the year. Get outside and take advantage of this weather while it is here.
Mad River
Streamers Streamers Streamers! We have some great conditions for fishing streamers this weekend. The flows are high, but falling fast. If you are wading then focus on the upper stretches. On foot you will be looking at Sunday before levels are safe to wade. Fishing streamers is our preferred method, but big buggy nymphs will get the job done too.
Certain flies have been consistent from week to week this winter. Patterns in the Nymph category include the Guide Choice Hare's Ear, Prince Nymph, Copper Johns, Jimmy Legs and don't overlook the San Juan. The Conehead Mudler is used as a nymph here around the shop too. And of course, as Brian always says around here: "Don't EVER fish the Mad River without Cranefly Larva in your fly box".
As for streamers supply yourself with a good mix of colors and rotate through them as needed. Pick up any Galloup pattern that is big and articulated. Dungeons, Barely Legals (take a look at the new Fish-Scull version), Bottoms Up, Cougars, Lil Swimmers, Game Changers and Totally Articulateds will produce. Make sure to have your sink-tip lines and 6-8wts!
Clearfork River
It is muddy and high on both ends...Things do not look good for next week either. Take advantage of the good weather this weekend and maybe think about a quick trip north for steelhead Sunday afternoon.
Clear Creek
Clear Creek is very high and muddy. This will last for quite some time looking at next week forecast.
Erie Steelhead
Look at hitting a smaller stream Sunday. Everything is high right now and off color. I you do not want to change your fishing plans keep an eye on the gauges. As usual this time of the year the window is going to be small, but there are plenty of fish. If you have a two-handed rod this weekend will be your time to swing.
Looking into next week there is going to be a mix of conditions. Lots of rain is in the forecast followed by snow. We will keep you updated as things change. Flies continue to be consistent: EGGS EGGS EGGS and a few buggers and Zonkers...not much more needs to be added...but if you like a little variety in your fly box have a good mix of nymphs. Steelhead Stones, Bloody Mary, Sparkle Maggots, Guides Choice Hares Ear, and Steak N Eggs will set you on the right path. Make sure you have a good mix of colors of eggs and dont forget the Trout Beads. With the higher off-colored water the larger Globugs and Bead in bright colors are our go to flies.
As for those wanting to swing up a fresh bright fish fill you box with A.I. Intruders, Dolly Llama, Flow Rider, Hare Leech, Skiddish Smolts will get the job done. Load up your Skagit heads, MOW tips, and 12-15lb tippet. We don't get the gift of this type of weather and conditions often so get out there and send us those Chrome pictures!
Here's a few from guide trips last Sunday before the water came up:
Our good friend and frequent guide client Quentin Baker- rumor has it he's joining Josh and Jerry in Alaska this Summer?
And of course Ed Bailey with a nice one as well!
Interested in a guide trip this coming Spring Season?
Our guides can provide most equipment and are available most any time.
Click HERE for information and pricing on an Erie Steelhead Trip.
Mad River Outfitters
Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!
813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214
614-451-0363
