Methow River Tributary Report

What's not to like about picking up Methow-area cuttbows on dries? Get in on the action before the season closes August 15.

The Chewuch, Twisp and a goldmine of other recently opened Okanogan-area streams are in prime shape and the westslope cutthroats, bull trout, brookies and rainbows that populate these beautiful waters are hitting hard on dries and nymphs. But you better get in on the action quick because most of these Methow River tributaries close early on August 15. And remember, it’s all catch-and-release.

Need to gear up ahead of the fall swing?

The early closure is in place to protect our anadromous runs, meaning the steelhead and salmon coming up the Columbia that end up in the Methow. During August, I have been startled more than once by spawning salmon as I roamed from bank to bank. Please be alert for redds when wading – we want these tribs to remain open to catch-and-release trout fishing, and damaging our salmon runs is not going to help. So wade above any redds you see and if you cross below a red make sure you’re a ways downstream as you don’t want to step on any eggs that have drifted down and are now nestled between the rocks.

Selective gear regulations are enforced, so remember to keep your barbs pinched. Great flies to drift over drop-offs and into hidey-holes are the X-Caddis (also good swung), and Super Chernobyls in crazy cutthroat colors, such as purple and pink. Another dry I like is the lime or black Hippie Stomper—can’t beat it for numbers of hookups, though sometimes mostly on small trout.

You can check out our selection of flies online here.

In the Chewuch, I’ve noticed very light colored sculpins that could be imitated well with a tan El Sculpito or maybe a Cat Toy in natural coloration. These could persuade some of the largest trout in these little streams to make an appearance. Fluorocarbon helps them make a decisionto rise, so stock up on leader and tippet before you head out. Got questions about these tribs and how to approach them? Stop by the North 40 shop in Omak and we’ll set you up.