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GENERAL EARLY WINTER FISHING REPORT FOR THE HENRY’S FORK DRAINAGE:  At the time of this writing, the white stuff is coming down in full blizzard force. The snow we’ve got the past couple of weeks has stacked up, and I’m afraid to say that Old Man Winter may be here to stay.
Current flows out of Island Park Reservoir into the Box Canyon have been holding steady around 500cfs and there’s some positive chatter going around that the flows through winter may remain around 500cfs, which would be awesome to ensure solid fish size & health for next season.Yes indeed, we do have plenty of snow already, but don’t let that deter you. This time of the year the fishing can be absolutely outstanding and the crowd’s non-existent. In the Box, nymphing small Beadheads and pulling Streamers are best, but on the right day the fish will go nuts for BW’s & Midges up top. For the adventurous sort, a float through the Box Canyon is ideal. The fish are hungry to pack on their winter weight & the scenery in the Canyon can be absolutely stunning. Just remember to dress warm & come prepared for anything Mother Nature might throw your way. You can still get a boat in & out, but as more snow stacks up, put-ins will become inaccessible.  After that, it will become a walk in endeavor for the remainder of winter.  But remember, the river through the Box Canyon all the way down to the Harriman Park boundary is open year around now and there are plenty of spots to gain quick access to the water.

Harriman Park remains open & fishable, but will be closing down for the season on Nov. 30^th, 2011. Until then, look for good numbers of Baetis & Midges. On the right day, with the right conditions, a Midge or Baetis hatch can bring every fish in the Ranch to the surface to feed.  The River through Last Chance is easy to get to and fishes well up until closing day. Stop by the shop & we can set you up with everything you need for a fine day of late season fly-fishing.
 The River from the Warm River confluence to Ashton Res. is fishing well and makes for a wonderful float this time of year. The Browns have begun their spawn and are aggressive to protect their redds. Come prepared with Baetis- Midge dries, BH nymphs & Streamers if you plan to fish this section of the Henry’s Fork. Please be conscious of spawning fish though, and stay clear of any spawning redds.

 Below Ashton Reservoir The River down low has begun to clear and is fishing well with Streamers, Rubberlegs and BH nymphs. When the conditions are right, Baetis & Midge hatches will bring the fish up for some solid dry fly fishing. The Browns have begun spawning here as well, so please use caution when wading around their redds. I believe we’ll have to wait until next spring to see what affect the Dam work had on this fine fishery. Stay Tuned. The River from Ashton Dam to Vernon Bridge closes on Nov. 30^th, 2011.
 

Henry’s Lake is starting to ice over and it won’t be long before any fishing there will have to be done through a hole in the hard deck. Will see this water come alive again on next year’s opener.
Lower River article on the Ashton dam here --> Idaho Outdoor Journal



Report - Grizz
Images - Bryan Gregson