The main rivers are still high. The Deerfield, Millers, Westfield and even the Swift have been blown out to the wade fisher. There are spots to find if you know where you are going. The smaller rivers have really come to life and have been fishing very good. The fish are really crushing buggers and nymphs. Some BWO 22-26 and Caddis 16-18 have been hatching but not much service activity as of yet. Water temp has risen to 48 degrees and it has the fish on the move. I hate to sound like a broken record but this is the time to fish these smaller rivers. They come down fast after a rain storm like we are supposed to get the next couple days. Usually 2-3 days and the are ready to fish. If you are looking to find one of these alternative rivers check the Mass Trout Stocking site then look for the river on the USGS Massachusetts Stream Flow Site. A river that is 20-30 feet across fishes well in the 100-200cfs range.
Pheasant Tail Nymphs 12-18, Caddis Nymph 10-16, Stonefly Nymph 8-14, Mops 8-10, Squirmies 12, Prince Nymph 12-14, Attractor Nymphs 10-18, Woolly Buggers Olive/Black 6-10, Mini Headbangers/Sculpins. BWO 22-26, Caddis 16-18.
We have availability for float and wade trips. Give us a call or shoot us an email.
Recommended equipment: 4-6 Weight Rods. WF And sink Tip Lines. 4X-6X Leaders and Tippet. Felt Soles, Felt + Studs, Rubber + Studs. Wading staff highly recommended
Water Flows for Fife Brook Dam can be found here: https://www.safewaters.com/facility/22
Water release schedule for the next day is posted after 5pm. Check again before you head to the river. Minimum Flow 130 CFS (Cubic Feet/Second). Ideal for wading and Dry Fly Action. Normal Release 800-1,000 CFS
Catch and release area #1 starts at Fife Brook Dam and continues to the Hoosac Tunnel Bridge. Fishable Year Round. Catch and release area #2 starts where Pelham Brook enters the Deerfield and ends at the Rt2 bridge. Water release from Fife Brook Dam takes approx. 2 hours to reach this area. Normal Release 800-1,000 CFS
