May 26, 2024

Roaring River came up last night a little over 2,000 CFS it has dropped back to 1,380 CFS.

Use Powerbait and plenty of weight. I think for another week or so, we will be able to get away with 4- to 6-pound line, I don’t think it will be an issue fly fishing for at least a week, but after that, we might start seeing a few more hatches after the water drops a bit.

We should be able to start fishing with mop, flies, mega worms and glow balls in at least a week. Big black buggers are always good bet when the water is murky. Copper John’s, larger pheasant tails and flashback nymphs of any kind usually work well when the water is dirty.

Rooster tail spinners and other types of spinners will work well when the water is dirty. You might need to add extra weight even to the 1/8-ounce rooster tails for a little while just to keep them down deep enough to get to the fish.

For the next week or so when you are fishing power bait and other plastics, I am going to recommend 1/8 ounce 1/4 ounce sinkers.

Usually, when the water is dirty, pinks, yellows and bright green plastic bait usually work. When the water is dirty and running fast, you get your spoons out. I prefer to use a gold spoon or a copper spoon when the water is dirty.

As the water clears, we will probably be able to throw heavier jigs. Black/yellow, white, tan and bright chartreuse work a lot of times when the water is dirty.

Good luck on the river this week, and be careful!

Roaring River State Park trout-fishing tips are provided by Tim Homesley, owner of Tim’s Fly Shop, located at 23387 Hwy. 112.