Rufus Woods Lake Report 3.21.17
Now that the Omak lake road is back up and running, people are finding it easier to get to Rufus Woods Lake. For the anglers using flies, the word is that it's been great. I would recommend fishing up river of the net pens. In the last few weeks, Colville Tribes has released about 15,000 two pound triploid rainbows in and around the pens. If you are looking for something a little beefier, go up stream. Your fly won't be mobbed by the smaller released fish. Fish the seam waters just off any current. This type of water is real suited for swinging streamers.
Need to stock up on flies? Check out our fly selection here
Since we did not have a steelhead season in the area, this will help you get your local fix for the spey rod. Depending on depth and speed of the water, a T8 to a T11 MOW tip will do just fine. Also, a Polyleader in the Fast to Super Fast should work well to. For flies to swing, try any of the TFP Intruders, MOAL leeches in blacks, olives and white. Sculpzillas are always a good choice.
For single hand rods, a lot of the different bugger patterns will always work. Nymphing balanced leeches and crayfish patterns are always a good bet.
The further up river you move, the better chance you have of finding diploid rainbows and the redbands. Keep your eyes open for any hatches that may be coming off this time of year. Small midges and the small black stone flies will sometimes be coming out. So it is always a good idea to carry a small box of dries with you.
As spring warms up, so will the fishing at Rufus Woods. Remember, if you are fishing on the Colville Reservation, you will need a Non Tribal Member fishing license. You can pick one up here at the Omak North 40 Outfitters store.