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The trout are currently in motion, with some heading upstream towards the dam, while others, the residential fish, remain in their original locations downstream to create redds. Presently, using egg patterns, beads, and blob flies in colors like cutthroat pink and fluorescent orange is crucial for successful fishing, as these patterns have become the primary focus of the fish. It’s important to note that we do not endorse fishing on redds, but rather drifting these patterns near the riverbed, not on the actual spawning beds. Especially during high water conditions, this is more about fishing near the river bottom.

However, I’d like to emphasize that we’re not advocating exclusively fishing on redds. In times of lower flow, sticking with tried-and-true patterns such as Taneycomo Sculpin patterns, Pheasant Tails, and the Sunday Special (a bead head scud) remains a solid approach. For the next generation of fly fishers, Walts Worms seems to be a suitable substitute for the Sunday Special. In the shoals, San Juan worms are still a reliable choice, and, as always, running midges under nymphs during generation is effective. In low-flow conditions, consider using double midges like root beer and ruby midges. Additionally, there are a few classic midge patterns from the Taneycomo days that shouldn’t be forgotten, such as the Trusty Rusty and Olive Dun.

Even when water levels are high and there’s no shad kill, don’t dismiss the use of shad patterns, as these fish may still be enticed by white patterns. During a recent outing on 10-17-23, with an early release of 190 megawatts, we began by using shad patterns on the surface, specifically two Wiggle Minnows, which yielded some successful strikes. We also ventured deeper and fished Arkansas Beadheads approximately seven feet below the surface closer to the riverbed, which also proved to be effective.

It’s important to note that the dam will be closed at the end of this month and will not reopen until February 1st. During this time, the dam regulations will apply to the state park, where night fishing is not permitted, and boat ramp access is restricted after 10 pm. However, there are still plenty of excellent nighttime fishing spots available. If this is your preference, consider launching your boat early and fishing downstream from the park. Wildcat Shoals is another ideal location for night fishing, and you can try using mouse patterns like deer hair mice, Splinter Mouse, and Bucktail Deceivers on floating lines.

We sincerely hope that this information aids you in planning your fishing outings, and we’re always here to assist you with all your fly-fishing endeavors.