Still Waters
STILL WATERS
ReportNOV 4 — 11, 2026
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Flow
—CFS
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Water Temp
—
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Weather
23–50°F
Areas Of Fog then Partly Sunny
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Reported By
Bruce Staples
On the water
Cooling water temperatures are pushing blue-green algae mats back on irrigation reservoirs, and fishing is improving as a result. Recent storms may have left remote access roads in rough shape — four-wheel drive may be required.
From the ShopBruce Staples · November 4, 2026
Fishing on irrigation reservoirs is improving because of cooling waters and the retreat of blue-green algae mats. Midge pupa will be the primary patterns for success — finding the taking depth is the key to getting fish. Leech and streamer patterns presented at depth can also produce action.
The recent storms may have put some remote roads into four-wheel drive condition. Check with County Road and Bridge websites before heading out.
What's Working — Hot Flies
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Size | Activity | Prime Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midge (Chironomid) Pupa | #18–22 | Primary — fish are keying on pupa at depth | Midday through afternoon |
| Midge (Chironomid) Adult | #20–24 | Secondary — watch for surface activity on calm, warmer midday periods | Late morning to early afternoon |
| Leech (attractor/subsurface) | #10–14 | Consistent producer at depth when midge action is slow | All day |
Best Time Window
- LATE MORNING TO MIDDAY: Best window for midge pupa activity as fog lifts and surface temps stabilize — focus on finding the taking depth
- MIDDAY TO EARLY AFTERNOON: Switch to leeches or streamers at depth if midge action slows; high today only reaches 50°F so fish stay deep
- ALL DAY: Leech and streamer patterns can produce throughout the day regardless of midge activity — keep them slow and deep
Guide's Tip
From the benchThe single most important variable on these reservoirs right now is depth — midge pupa need to be presented right in the feeding zone, so experiment with your indicator depth until you start connecting. If midges aren't producing, drop down to a leech or streamer and slow your retrieve way down in the cold water. Before you head out to any remote reservoir, check your county's Road and Bridge website to confirm access roads are passable after the recent storms.
Main Species
Rainbow Trout
Brook Trout
Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout
