Fall Fly Fishing with Wayne Osborne

As usual September proved to be one of best times of the year to fish the Elk. Prevalent hatches of tiny BWO's down to size 22-24, Flavs and Slatewing Duns in the size 12-14 range (Olive Haze and Grey Para Hares Ear) and large Fall Caddis which should continue through October. I have found Orange or Royal PMX in size 6-8 work well when the Fall Caddis are around.

Terrestrial, mainly ants, beetles and hoppers are always handy, but one of my favourite flies at this time of year is size 18-20 H&L Varents or even Royal Wulffs in the same size range. Also Griffith Gnats and Renagades to target the midge hatches. Dry flies still work well during the warmer time of day in October, for other times try nymphing techniques with bead head or emerger BOP October Caddis patterns size 8, or small nymphs such as copper Johns. Streamers are also effective on Cutthroat Trout with Bull Trout providing the occasional surprise.

Talking of Bull Trout, October is the month for chasing the monster fish which, instead of doing the spawning run this season, have been feeding up on Kokanee Salmon to condition up for next year’s run. Unlike the very tired fish returning from the spawning run, these fish are very heavy for their length and fight like hell. They are a real challenge on an 8 wt outfit with fish over 30 lb being taken last season. Good numbers of 15-20 lb fish are relatively common.

Adam Richard, head guide at Fernie Fly Fishing, has been researching this fishery for the past 12 years and we are running trips this October, even into early November weather permitting. This fishery is not for beginners but for hard core experienced anglers.

That's about it for this season around Fernie, during the winter months try saltwater trips in the tropics.

For more information contact Wayne directly at Fernie Fly Fishing 250-430-2334.