Snow storm clobbers the Hole

Our low snowpack levels got a much needed boost this past Tuesday!  After nearly a month without any significant snowfall, we received 16″ at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. This storm came in with lots of wind and some rain that changed over to all snow through the day.  The forecast is for more snow and snow showers through the weekend. …

This raised the water content in our snowpack from 52% to 56%.  Still seems pretty meager I know, but any upward trend is a welcome sight, especially out of a one day event.  Check the latest totals here – http://www-wwrc.uwyo.edu/wrds/nrcs/snowprec/snowprec.html

At this point it looks as though our runoff will subside quickly this year.  However, Spring is often our wettest season and could raise the water content significantly if we get a number of storms in April and May. If this does happen, we still expect to be floating the Snake no later than June 25th, if not earlier.

Even with the low snow levels, our reservoirs in the Snake River system are above average for this time of year.  This should mean plenty of water for potatoes and trout!  Check the reservoir levels here-http://www.usbr.gov/pn/hydromet/burtea.cfm

Jackson Hole Fly Fishing Report 3.16.10 – Snake River

Fishing season is here! Low snowpack levels and warm temperatures have made for some great fly fishing on the Snake River lately.  With afternoon air temps reaching into the mid 40’s, the water temperatures have been ripe for midge and winter stonefly hatches.  A few Blue winged Olives are getting in on the act as well, especially on overcast afternoons. Fish are feeding actively on the surface in shallow riffles, the ends of long runs, and back eddies. Nymphing has been consistent with stonefly patterns and midge droppers. Streamers have been effective later in the day when water temps are the warmest. Best time: 1-5pm Best flies: Parachute Adams #16-20, Furimsky’s BDE Black #18-20, Zebra Midge Red/Black #18-20, Black Leech #6-8

Sunny days are great for float trips.

Doubled up during a recent BWO hatch.