Red's Flyshop - River Flows Updated Links and Intel

Warm nights and hot days will quickly trigger snow melt later in the spring and the DIY angler should keep an eye on these charts below.  DON'T OVERTHINK IT THOUGH :)  These charts don't necessarily help you predict the most important factor... trout hunger.  There are times that an angler can have very productive fishing when the water is a big high and off color, and likewise you can easily get skunked when the water is low and clear.  As a general rule we love to fish "the drop" when the river flow is coming down and subsiding.  Like this week.  Does that guarantee the trout will be hungry?  Almost, but not quite.  Many environmental factors play a role but its a wise bet.  Below is a screen shot of the flow pattern for February 12th:

In red I marked a trend that anglers like to see in the spring, a dropping river that is clearing and opening up a feeding opportunity for some hopefully hungry trout.  Start watching and learning the flow patterns for the Yakima River using these links and general guideline for wading.

1,000 cfs - 2,000 cfs - IDEAL WADING CONDITIONS

2,000 cfs - 2,500 cfs - Good Wading Conditions

2,500 cfs - 3,500 cfs - Fair Wading Conditions

3,500 cfs - 4,500 cfs - Tough Wading

4,500 cfs + Floating with a guide recommended