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One Year Ago: Looking Back at the Devastating Montana Floods

Nelson Oxley
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One Year Ago: Looking Back at the Devastating Montana Floods

On June 13, 2022 many Montanans woke up to breaking news of historic runoff. A year ago today in Montana, many rivers were hit hard with devastating flooding from the increased snow and rain in the late spring, tripling some rivers in volume to over 50,000 cubic feet per second, causing a statewide emergency, people evacuating their homes, and even leaving some in isolation.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) named this historic flood the “500-year flood,” with 7.5 to 9.5 inches of combined rain and snowmelt making its ways into Montana rivers in under 24 hours.  This year, we connected back with Sam Rogers out of Angler’s West Fly Shop to learn more about the flood, what happened, and where we currently sit moving into the summer of 2023.  

NPS / Jacob W. Frank

Last year Rogers claimed, “Last evening, the Yellowstone River and other surrounding rivers doubled in volume, and even tripled by intense rainfall in Yellowstone National Park. The result is what the USGS claims to be a 500-year flood. Flows broke 50,000 CFS on the Yellowstone River this morning for the first time in recorded history.”

“Tom Miner Basin bridge was ripped from the towers around 9 am this morning, and many homes, ranches, and properties were flooded by upwards of 5 feet of water. Businesses and roads in and out of the Paradise Valley are quickly closing too. Several other rivers in the state, The Gallatin, Stillwater, and Rock Creek in the Beartooth Range, are experiencing this extreme flooding. We are under a flood advisory for several more days to come.” A few words from Sam Rogers last year.

Today, we connected back with Sam, who updated us on the current conditions of Montana’s Rivers, specifically the Yellowstone in Paradise Valley. Rogers claimed, “The effects of last year’s catastrophic Yellowstone River flooding were deeply felt within the greater Yellowstone community. Beyond the anglers, guides, and fly shops that call the valley home, restaurants, family lodges, and many other businesses experienced a brutal summer like none other.”

Photo from a house that got affected, moments later it was washed away from the mighty Yellowstone. Photo from Sam Rogers 6/13/2022.

“One year later, the scars of the flood are still showing, but like the river, those of us who live in and love the Paradise Valley are incredibly resilient. The trout are still here, and the fishing is only getting better. While the river has changed significantly in many places, it has been a great and unique challenge to re-learn a river I have spent my entire life on.”

“The valley and towns adjacent are open and eager for business and ready for another summer in paradise. Anglers West Fly Shop is doing much better than last year, and we are off to a killer year. Some of our clients are curious about the quality of fishing, which is warranted, but the fishing and the fish are super resilient. We often say that trout have evolved to handle major water events for millennia. It will take time for things to return to “normal,” but we’re optimistic.

@foxweather

Flooding in Red Lodge, #Montana on June 13 caused major damage to buildings in the area. #redlodge #redlodgemontana #flooding

♬ original sound – FOX Weather

Sean Jansen, an active writer from Flylords Magazine and local guide in Yellowstone National Park, claimed, “I didn’t realize the damage on Monday, June 13th until I witnessed the rivers myself. It’s both a humbling and incredible view to see the power of mother nature, but it is tragic to detect fly shops, guide services, people that have lost their homes, and people like myself.” Check out the report from Sean Jansen and News Nation below. 

“It’s truly going to hurt me since the places I love to fly fish and trail run aren’t going to be accessible since the roads are gone. It’s not just Yellowstone that got affected. In all fairness, I think Yellowstone got out relatively easy around southwest Montana. Red Lodge, for example, is one of the smaller towns that witnessed devastating flooding. I remember fishing Rock Creek a year ago, and now the town of Red Lodge is covered in sediment and feet of cobble since Rock Creek’s flows rose exponentially.” Words from Sean Jansen June 2022. 

Special thanks to Sam Rogers and Sean Jansen for their updates on the Montana flooding.

If you are a fishing guide, industry professional, fly shop employee, and were affected from the Montana flooding, be sure to reach out the Guide Relief Program. The Guide Relief program was created during the global COVID-19 crisis to support fishing guides, providing critical information and resources regarding grants, loans, financial relief, and mental health programs.  

Check out the articles below:

After the Flood

Interview with Yellowstone Guide: Sean Jansen #fliesforfloodrelief

Reel of the Week: Sight Fishing For Redfish At Bay Flats Lodge

Nelson Oxley
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Reel of the Week: Sight Fishing For Redfish At Bay Flats Lodge

A note from Bay Flats Lodge (@bay_flats_lodge):

“30-yards off the nose of the skiff is a sudden wake, and then another. You spot the school holding over mud and grass in clear water only inches deep. Any wonder in your mind as to why the allure of fly fishing for redfish is so great suddenly escapes you. You’re mesmerized by their presence, but your body responds automatically with a long and precise shot. You strip your line, bringing the fly across their bronze shoulders, and then you strip some more. There’s a huge eruption at the water’s surface just as your line goes taught and heavy. A fight ensues with one of these red brutes, and you realize you’ve achieved the elevation of a fly fishing phenomenon under the wizardly direction of your Bay Flats Lodge guide.”
Reel of the Week from the Bay Flats Lodge, be sure to check out their operation in nestled near the backcountry marsh of San Antonio Bay. Check out their Instagram @bay_flats_lodge. 

Check out the articles below:

Ole Red: A Redfish Angler Story

Fishing Tips: 5 Quick Redfish Tips

Re-introduced: Chaco X NRS Limited Edition Sandal

Nelson Oxley
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Re-introduced: Chaco X NRS Limited Edition Sandal

In 2018, Chaco Footwear and Northwest River Supply (NRS) launched their collaboration with the traditional Chaco sandal with NRS cam straps. New for 2023, Chaco and NRS reintroduced the sandal to support Diversify Whitewater–a nonprofit organization that works to promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in paddlesports for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).

This limited-edition sandal was also reintroduced to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act in 2018. As these sandals will sell out quickly, purchase a pair by clicking HERE, where $10 of each sale goes to Diversify Whitewater.

“At NRS, we are committed to cultivating common ground, making outdoor recreation welcoming and accessible to all—and building a bigger tent of people who care about the outdoors,” said Mark Deming, Chief Marketing Officer at NRS. “Diversify Whitewater and Chaco have been great partners in this work, and this collaboration gives us an opportunity to have some fun on the water, while giving back.”

The Chaco x NRS Collection is available in Chaco’s Z/1 and Z/2 Classic styles in both men’s and women’s sizing and feature limited–edition webbing inspired by NRS’ iconic blue and yellow tie–down straps. The unique webbing adds a touch of color and style and pays homage to both brands’ rich heritage on the river.

“We first launched a collection with NRS in 2018 and our loyal Chaco lovers have wanted a relaunch of the iconic collaboration. We’re excited to give the ChacoNation what they’ve been asking for,” said Lauren Poole, Sr. Director of Marketing at Chaco. “Our Z/Sandals are made for adventures on the water. We’re thrilled to partner again with NRS, another iconic river brand, and support Diversify Whitewater to encourage more people to try paddle sports for the first time.”

Featuring fully adjustable straps for a customized fit and Chaco’s podiatrist–certified LUVSEAT footbeds for premium arch support, the Chaco x NRS sandals ensure all–day comfort for water enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The sandals are also fully repairable at Chaco’s ReChaco facility and have webbings made with recycled REPREVE materials.

Intersted in getting a pair of these sandals? You can purchase the sandals online from both NRS or Chaco. Learn more about the limited-edition collection HERE. 

Check out the articles below:

Thomas Rhett and Chaco Team Up on New Fly Fishing Design

Gear Review: The NRS Slipstream 139 Fishing Raft

How to Tie: The Ugly Walt’s Worm

Greg Stohrer
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How to Tie: The Ugly Walt’s Worm

In this week’s “How to Tie” video feature, Cheech with Fly Fish Food ties a simple, yet deadly, variation on the classic Walt’s Worm that will compete in productivity, the Ugly Walt’s Worm.

Learn About This Fly:

Difficulty: Easy

Today, there are thousands of nymph patterns on the market. Many of the flies today take time and precision to execute well, two things that not every tyer has. Simple will always be effective and some of the most basic patterns have proven that such as the Mop Fly, Clouser Minnow, and Woolly Bugger. Joining that list is a variation on Walt’s Worm and can be considered the uglier younger brother, the Ugly Walt’s Worm.

This pattern is nearly as simple as it gets and is a fantastic fly to begin your tying career on. You will be able to practice wrapping materials and creating variations of this fly by altering the hot spot, which is a great feeling no matter the skill level. Some colors will work better at different times of the year, so having a few different variations of the Ugly Walt’s Worm will be key for success.

Using this fly in a double nymph rig will produce fish, whether that is Euro style or under an indicator. Replacing the orange chenille with chartreuse will imitate a caddis nymph, the one natural imitation this fly may take on. Enjoy the simple patterns, as they are the ones that fill up the box and will often produce the most. The Ugly Walt’s Worm is a nymph that anglers should carry in their nymph box year-round and have some fun on the vise with.

Ingredients:

Now you know how to tie the Ugly Walt’s Worm!

Video and ingredients courtesy of Fly Fish Food.

2023 Mile High 25 On The Fly

Nelson Oxley
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2023 Mile High 25 On The Fly

When you work at a fly shop, you hear it all. We all know that fly-fishing attracts some real characters, and as the stories roll through the door, you know 90% of it is mythical, if not a straight up lie.

“I once hooked a 40’’ laker and when I took my phone out, it flopped into the lake!” “When I was fishing by myself, I landed a carp the size of school bus, but I didn’t have my GoPro running.” “I know a spot with 50″ Tiger Muskies that only eat Whiting Saddles….” You get the idea.

One day around the counter at Anglers All fly shop a chat about angling opportunities during spring runoff season popped off over a few cold ones during happy hour.  As the conversation evolved, the staff started eyeing up the potential for a multi-species fly fishing only tournament. They dreamed of an event that would bring much needed shine to the unsung heroes of Colorado like Bass, Carp, Walleye, and Pike. It’s hard to get tired of the predatory attitude brown trout, but in a country where conventional Bass fishing is king, we wanted to highlight how effective a fly rod can be for fooling America’s gamefish, and other warm-water species. That is how the Mile High 25 On the Fly was born.

In the Spring of 2016, Anglers All hosted the first multi-species focused fly-fishing tournament. Now in its 8th consecutive year, the event has grown in popularity and branched out into a series of events under the alias “25 On the Fly.” These events are one part tournament, and one part scavenger hunt and are aimed at introducing anglers to the many legit fish species that a fly rod can wrangle into a landing net.

The concept is simple: two person teams chase a list of fish species over two days with a smartphone in one hand and a fly rod in the other. As fish are brought to hand, anglers document the CATCH – VIDEO – REALSE (Keep ’em wet) process, then log into the tournament app, and move on to the next species. For the most part, size is irrelevant if the fish is mature enough to be identified by the judges.

Do you have a reliable fishing buddy with sharp skills with the net? If so, smash THIS LINK and get signed up for the 8th annual @25onthefly! With each registration, $100 will go directly to @denvertroutunlimited for continued water quality improvements on Denver’s South Platte River! Even better, sign up and win the event and you have earned yourself a free 1-way ticket to fishing in the famous “Carp Slam” happening on the Denver South Platte September 16th!

If you and your fishing buddy don’t have plans for June 17-18 the Mile High 25 On the Fly is your answer. Be sure to check out all of the details for the @25onthefly by clicking HERE!

Check out the articles below:

Flylords Father’s Day Fly Fishing Gift Guide

12th Annual Cheeky Schoolie Tournament Another Huge Success–Raises $30,000 for Striped Bass Conservation

“No Fly Zones” a Film by Patagonia

Nelson Oxley
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“No Fly Zones” a Film by Patagonia

In the world of fly fishing, few experiences can match the exhilaration of witnessing fish feeding on adult insects. It is a spectacle that ignites the senses, captivating both the angler and the natural world in a mesmerizing dance. Picture yourself standing knee-deep in a crystal-clear river, surrounded by the gentle symphony of nature, as delicate insects gracefully emerge from the riverbed.

An insect hatch is nature’s grand performance, where aquatic insects shed their underwater existence and undergo a stunning transformation. In this magical moment, they take flight, skimming the water’s surface, ready to mate, and to fulfill their destiny and ignite the passion of fly fishers worldwide. Dry fly fishing possesses an enchanting allure, drawing anglers into a world where time slows, and nature’s secrets unfold. However, climate change is happening, and the decline of insects we used to see on the river banks aren’t coming back like they used to.

According to Patagonia, seventy percent of winged insects have been lost, as Patagonia’s founder Yvon Chouinard claims, “it’s a bug apocalypse.”

As Stephen Sautner said in his article from Patagonia, “The same way steelheaders need to be anti-dam, trout anglers should be pro-bug.” The answer is–nobody primarily knows why the decline is happening; but, we know some of the implications that can cause a decline in insect populations.

For example, Sautner explained some of the issues regarding climate change with bigger agricultural farms and the use of pesticides, but that’s not only the case, homeowners and the use of fertilizers add into the equation of the decline of insects. The best thing our society can do to try and prevent the decline of insects is to try and focus on “buying organic or pesticide-free food” which ultimately is one way to “vote pro-bug with your wallet.”

Fly anglers need to become more optimistic about the future. Fly anglers have a unique connection to the natural world through their pursuit of fish on the fly. An optimistic mindset involves embracing innovative solutions and adapting to change. We have the opportunity to understand the decline of insect hatches, raise awareness, and become advocates for conservation and protect the waters we love.

By fostering an optimistic mindset and taking proactive steps to protect and restore insect habitats, fly anglers can make a significant impact in preserving these vital components of aquatic ecosystems. With collective efforts and a shared commitment to sustainable practices, we can ensure a brighter future for both fly fishing and the insects that captivate our imagination on the water and become “pro-bug.”

Be sure to check out Patagonia’s recent video, “No Fly Zones” a video capturing a few reasons why climate change adds into the decline of insects, as well as Stephen Sautner’s “Dude Where’s My Hatch” article published by Patagonia. 

A Time to Care (for the Bugs)

Most Useful Fly Tying Accessories

 

Video of the Week: Emergence: Summer fly fishing on the White River

Landen German
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Video of the Week: Emergence: Summer fly fishing on the White River

In this Week’s Video of the Week, we take a breather from the smoke in the east and the nasty storms throughout the west to enjoy the beauty of a summer evening on the water with good friends. Emergence is a short film by Connor Harris that follows Kirtis Harris‘ passion for the White River. With its fluctuating flows and constant change in water levels, Kirtis has to think on his toes to adapt to the ever-changing conditions. Then pair incredible bug hatches with a great fly fishing community and you get a comradery around a river that is pretty special. So sit down and enjoy as Kirtis and friends take you along for a couple of afternoons floating down the White River.

“This film has been a long time coming. For years, we’ve been taking our time to learn the ins and outs of the White River and how to capture it in a way that truly represents how we feel about it. Summer 2022 kicked off with an epic caddis hatch and we knew it was time to take on a big new project.” Follow their adventures along the White River here: @Connor.m.harris & @Kirtis.c.harris.

Check out these Epic articles as well!

Video of the Week: “The Best Float Trip Ever”

Video of the Week: “Trouts on the Water” – Episode 2 – Michigan Smallmouth

Video of the Week: For Wilds Sake: The Rare Trout Chronicles by Tight Loops

California Governor Unveils Ambitious $60M Fishway Plan for Yuba River

Nelson Oxley
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California Governor Unveils Ambitious $60M Fishway Plan for Yuba River

California Governor Gavin Newsom recently announced a groundbreaking initiative to construct a fishway along the Yuba River to protect salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon. The ambitious project aims to restore vital fish populations and enhance the region’s ecological balance with the construction of the channel near Daguerre Point Dam.

In a press, Governor Newsom outlined his plan to address the declining fish numbers in the Yuba River. The proposed fishway will serve as a critical pathway for steelhead, spring-run chinook salmon, and green sturgeon, allowing them to bypass dams and other barriers, facilitating their migration upstream to spawn.

Newsom emphasized this project’s significance in maintaining the river’s ecological health and preserving its diverse fish species. By investing in the construction of the fishway, the governor aims to bolster fish populations, which will benefit the Yuba River’s overall ecosystem. In the 1950’s the state of California installed fish ladders for salmon and steelhead to climb; however, the technology is outdated and in-need of desperate repair.

The funds allocated for the fishway construction will come from the state’s budget, where they invested $100 million in salmon funding last year, and the rest will come from the Yuba Water Agency, reflecting California’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices. Newsom expressed confidence in the project’s success and acknowledged the importance of collaborative efforts from stakeholders, scientists, and environmental organizations.

The Yuba River fishway initiative marks a significant step forward in California’s ongoing efforts to protect and restore its natural habitats. Newsom’s announcement has garnered widespread support and recognition, with many applauding the governor’s commitment to preserving the state’s rich biodiversity and promoting a sustainable future.

The construction of the fishway is expected to commence later this year, with completion anticipated within the next few years. As the project progresses, Californians eagerly await its positive outcomes for the Yuba River ecosystem and the diverse aquatic life that calls it home.

For more information about the Yuba River project, be sure to check out the Yuba Water Agency. Featured Image Credit from Getty Images.

Patagonia’s Cracked–An In-Depth and Disturbing Account of The History of Dams, and a Path for a Better Future

Breaking: Federal Regulators OK Plan to Remove the Klamath Dams

Angler Story of the Week: Fly Fishing With Bees

Nelson Oxley
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Angler Story of the Week: Fly Fishing With Bees

A note from Randal Betz Jr. (@flyfishdelawhere):

“When I approach trout water, I take a few moments to observe my surroundings. I’m looking for bug activity to influence me to choose the right fly. I’ll spend time crouched down in line with the water’s edge, looking to match the hatch. Occasionally, I’ll notice bees and wasps walking on the rocks or pollinating a wild flower hanging off the bank.

I don’t tempt fate when I’m on the water, so I’ll take it as a sign, scrummage through my fly box for a terrestrial bee/wasp pattern and tie it on. I present this pattern the same way I present a caddis dry fly. I wiggle my rod tip, creating micro motion through the fly line, into the tippet and forcing the bee/wasp fly to flutter. The flutter imitates a bug in distress and the trout can’t resist it.

I challenge you to cast a similar pattern, you’ll be pleasantly surprised that sometimes, trout like terrestrials on the spicy side.”

Angler Story of the Week from Randal Betz Jr., be sure to follow him on Instagram at @flyfishdelawhere. 

Check out the articles below:

California Court Rules that “Bees Are Fish”

It’s Terrestrial Time!

Public or Private: Colorado Supreme Court Bars Angler’s Lawsuit for River Access

Nelson Oxley
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Public or Private: Colorado Supreme Court Bars Angler’s Lawsuit for River Access

In Colorado, there has been an ongoing disagreement about who should have access to the rivers and under what circumstances. Some people believe that the rivers should be open to everyone, allowing public use for activities like fishing, boating, and other recreational purposes. On the other hand, there are those who argue that only private landowners should have the right to access and use the river bottoms they own.

This was just the case for Roger Hill, where he decided to throw his waders on, rig up his fly rod, and fish the Arkansas River in Fremont County, Colorado. Hill decided to enter the Arkansas River on public land, in which land owner Mark Warsewa and Linda Joseph owned the land next to the river. Hill thought it was unfair that certain stretches of the river were off-limits just because they flowed through private property. Feeling passionate about this issue, Hill decided to take legal action and file a lawsuit. The State of Colorado river access debate gained steam after an altercation with Hill and the landowners, which resulted in a lawsuit with publications from various sources like the Denver Post.

Hill believed that the Arkansas River became navigable in 1876 when Colorado became a state, arguing, “the bottom of the river is public property.” However, Colorado stands out as one of the states where river access remains undefined by specific laws and court rulings, leading to conflicts being addressed individually on a case by case basis.

On multiple occasions, Hill fished on the Arkansas River in the same location. Hill alleges that he was threatened by Warsewa and Joseph, to be arrested for trespass, got river-rock thrown at him, as well as shot a gun at his fishing partner.

The Colorado Supreme Court recently stepped in to try and settle this dispute once and for all. Hill’s case sparked a lot of interest whether or not some rivers are “navigable,” a federal law called “navigability for title.” Defined by the Federal Commerce Clause, navigability for title is a “test” used to evaluate whether or not private land owners or the state owns the bed and the banks of the river. Hill claimed that the riverbed was not owned by Warsewa and Joseph, but “owned by the State of Colorado.”

The Colorado Supreme Court ruled on Monday, June 5th 2023, that Hill has no right to sue that the state’s rivers are public property. The court did not rule against public access, but rather determined Hill has no legal standing for this lawsuit. After many briefings, we sit at a stand-still and wait to see what happens next.

Colorado is one of the only states in the nation without a recognized navigable river. Colorado’s river access laws will stay up in the air, as other states in the west have recently adapted their laws. For instance, in Montana, you can access any part of the river up to the high water line, above or beyond the high water line is considered trespassing on private property. In Idaho, the laws are similar to Montana in which you must stay within the high-water marks of the stream or river, if there is an obstruction like a strainer, dam, or other obstruction, you must take the shortest and most direct route around the obstruction to get back into the river. Recently both Utah and New Mexico have altered their laws for public access to rivers and streams. Utah stream access just lost a big case on similar access issues.

Interested in reading more? Check out the publication from Jason Blevins in The Colorado Sun: “Colorado Supreme Court ends long river access dispute by ruling fisherman has no standing in right-to-wade argument.” Stay tuned as the story develops.

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Fishing Tips: Leech Fishing in Lakes

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