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June 22, 2009 - Steve Hoovler

I've been on the Madison the last two days, and we've actually seen some sunshine. It's been between showers and thunderstorm's, but it's sunshine nonetheless. Flows out of Hebgen remain below 800 cfs. Though, with Hebgen Lake nearing full capacity (99.4%), PPL will most likely bring the flow up to match the inflow to the reservoir which today is 1876cfs.

Clarity has been an issue in the float stretch lately with big rains turning all the small tributaries like Pappoose, Squaw, Moose, and Indian creeks off color. There's a distinct line down the middle of the river with clear water right now. Fish don't seem to mind the slightly muddy water. Nymphing with dead drifted streamers and san juan worms has produced fish along with beadheads like prince nymphs and lightning bugs.

Dry weather is finally in the forecast. This should give the river a chance to clear and warm up a bit. Look for those big salmonflies to make their appearance above Ennis this week if, in fact, we see some warmer temps.

In other news, repairs continue on Hebgen dam. The entire flow was succesfully diverted to the spillway last week without any afftects to the flow. Costruction will most likely last through this season and into the next. PPL has promised time and again that their work will not impact fishing on the river. So far, So good. We'll have to keep our fingers crossed.

Posted on Monday, June 22, 2009 at 11:09AM by Registered CommenterSteve Hoovler | Comments Off