Jackson Hole, Wyoming Backcountry Fly Fishing Report 9.7.16

Fall has hit the Jackson Hole backcountry early this year, so get out there because it will only be fishing well for the next 3-4 weeks!  The backcountry is a great place to get away for the day and enjoy catching Cutthroat Trout at the base of some of Jackson Hole’s most beautiful mountains.  Do not be surprised if you do not see another angler all day when fly fishing the backcountry.  The water level is low but the fish are still eating and holding in the pools they can find. The leaves have started to change color and the temperatures have started to drop signaling the start of the Mahogany Dun hatch. Bring along some Mahogany Cripples (size 14-16), but a Purple Haze might be the only fly you need. Fall BWO’s have started to show on our backcountry creeks and this hatch will get more prolific as water temperatures continue to drop. Broken riffle water hides most of these trout in the lower flows of Fall. It is a good idea to cast in a riffle above a pool and let the fly float over the drop off in hopes of moving a nice Snake River Cutthroat Trout. Don’t overlook slower bank water though, as some large Cutties have been found sipping bugs and conserving their energy. Terrestrials are also still producing at a high level; ant patterns, beetles, and hoppers make for a great afternoon of fly fishing in Wyoming’s backcountry.  Mike’s Honey ant (size 12-16) or a Sparkle Ant are always good options as well as a cinnamon flying ant (size 12-16).  Even when it’s windy out these flies should still catch fish.  Cast them close to the bank to imitate an ant or beetle getting blown off a blade of grass. The backcountry season will soon be over so get out there and fish!  Call us today at (307) 690-1139 or check out our WY backcountry page to book a trip!

Fish The Fly guide Nat Murphy and Anne Olson with a tight line in Wyoming’s backcountry!