Low and clear water tactics. (Help)

[mckenzieguy]

Who cares about the Superbowl!!!

With the clear and low water levels on the coast this week, would you suggest swinging deep, or sticking with the indicator??

The last trips out I've been hitting slightly off colored water, so it was an indicator and egg pattern, but tomorrow, I don't know if that will hold up with the low flows and really gin clear water..


HELP!!!!!!!

Steve

[PTS]

Steve, consider yourself lucky you can fish coastal water because it's a lot warmer than the low, clear 37-39 degree water on the sandy and Clack I have to fish. Your fish may move to the fly at least a little.

In the many years I used to spend on the Alsea and Siletz I found fish in faster white water slots and runs especially if a little structure was available to them under low clear conditions. Fish were also in deeper holes but were reluctant to bite so the faster water held biters. That water is best fished nymphing.

As you really learn your rivers you will find the fish consistently in the same spots under similar water conditions.

[AndyK]

With the clear and low water levels on the coast this week, would you suggest swinging deep, or sticking with the indicator??

I personally think the water dictates the best presentation. Pocket water and narrow slots are best fished nymphing. Runs can be covered well swininging.

Low, clear water usually means smaller flies and longer leaders. Also, you may be better off with a floating line or an intermediate sink tip.

The big advantage of using a floating line is you don't need to switch lines. Swing through the runs and add an indicator for the slots.

[mckenzieguy]

"Sage words."

Advice from both of you made me feel more comfortable.

So, work faster water with structure in clear low water. If I've had success in certain areas, stick with them, in the long run they have been productive.

Adjusting my leader's to fit the conditions, and leave the heavy tips at home. (Small waters.)

I've had success this winter, mostly because I'm actually getting out there..:passout:

Thanks you two.

Steve

[Paman]

I personally think the water dictates the best presentation. Pocket water and narrow slots are best fished nymphing. Runs can be covered well swininging.

Low, clear water usually means smaller flies and longer leaders. Also, you may be better off with a floating line or an intermediate sink tip.

The big advantage of using a floating line is you don't need to switch lines. Swing through the runs and add an indicator for the slots.

At this time of year what patterns do suggest, I thought an egg pattern is your best bet but this is coming from a I a virgin steelheader.

[AndyK]

At this time of year what patterns do suggest, I thought an egg pattern is your best bet but this is coming from a I a virgin steelheader.

Egg patterns work well for nymphing; most do not work for swinging.

In low conditions, try a smaller (size 8 or 6) Green Butt Skunk, Purple Angel or similar fly with a dark body, but some color.

[bauer buoy]

Egg patterns work well for nymphing; most do not work for swinging.

In low conditions, try a smaller (size 8 or 6) Green Butt Skunk, Purple Angel or similar fly with a dark body, but some color.

bloodsucking leach!