Current Klamath River Fly Fishing Report: 01.10.2024
[Update Jan 11, 2024: Flows are starting to increase from Iron Gate dam. Fishing conditions are unknown. I would recommend waiting for now on any trips to the Klamath. Check back here for updates next week. ]
Here’s an AI generated response that sure reads finny:
“Fly fishing on the upper Klamath River is still going strong, with reports of productive outings featuring a healthy presence of adult steelhead”.
It is true. The fishing is solid on the upper Klamath. Hard to find a more consistent stretch of water on the West Coast, during the winter, year in, year out.
Sometimes it is the weather that prevents us form getting to the river. But, once on the river, rain or snow definitely do not compromise the fly fishing.
There’s a catch though. At least for this year. This winter may be the our last chance for a while before we can cast to the might Klamath 1/2 pounder and adult steelhead. Give me a shout before considering this wonderful river. Why? releases from Iron Gate should increase this month and with that, water conditions could be “bad”. But, the fishing could be great. We will for sure be fishing a different Klamath river. A new frontier in a way. BTW: Releases are increasing in preparation of tearing down the damn.
Is the fishing good?
Yes! Of course! Water conditions remain good. Good numbers of steelhead in the system should stay steady through the month.
For now, no changes to the hot fly list.
Hot flies:
- #8 Brown Rubber Legs
- Just about any small nymphs in brown or black. Think #12 ~ 14
- Red Copper Johns in #14 ~ 16
- Black A.P. #14
- Poxy Back Hare’s Ear
- Psycho Prince
- Glow Roe beads in 8mm
- Various Micro-Spawn Eggs (Colors: Shrimp Pink, Peachy, Salmon Egg)
I include the following in all my reports on the Klamath for your benefit:
The Klamath is a rugged river. Giant lava rock and deep holes make wading difficult. Best wading access is along the lower river from October through early winter when conditions allow. The upper river provides good water and endless opportunity from long deep glides and pools to shallow holding water that produces excellent Salmon Fly conditions in the early Summer (top water Salmon fly bite). The most productive fly fishing approach along the upper river is via drift boat. From Iron Gate down to where the Klamath runs below Interstate 5, there’s two to three days of fly fishing available.
