Jackson Hole Wyoming Fly Fishing Report angler holding trout

Fly Fishing Report- Spring (May updates)

What are the fish biting on today? Check back often for our latest Jackson Hole Fly Fishing Report update!

May 12, 2020

Snake River and Covid19

The Snake River in Jackson Hole is in runoff mode now until likely well into June and some years longer, much depends on weather trends. Fishing below the dam is the best option once GTNP reopens from the pandemic shutdown, our current notifications suggest early June to reopen waterways. Below Pacific Creek the river is typically too high and dirty for good fishing during this time and safety is compromised so proceed with caution.

COVID -19: SUMMARY OF OPERATIONAL CHANGES FOR 2020

COVID-19 Procedural changes in effect immediately and continued until further notice or until other modifications are implemented as this is a fluid and dynamic situation:

While we realize we cannot eliminate all risks associated with the coronavirus to our guests or employees, however we know we can drastically reduce chances of further transmission with these operational adaptations. We feel we can provide a safe and quality service while maintaining minimum social distancing standards aligned with the use of PPE and hygiene.

Fly Shop and Office-

1) Opening procedures will include extra cleaning of any high traffic surface with an anti-viral disinfectant.

2) Cleaning will be conducted again after all trips have embarked and frequently throughout the day and as relates to business flow.

3) Office employees are expected to wash hands hourly for 20 seconds.

4) Fly shop will be limited to a capacity of 6 total (including employees) at any time with signage and details at entrance.

5) Hand sanitizer will be available for customers at entrance.

6) Extra face masks will be available to guides if needed.

7) Dip station for disinfecting PFD’s and other gear will be available for our guide staff.

Meeting and transportation-

Clients will be given a time to meet at our shop parking area. In most cases we will recommend only the guide come inside to get any necessary gear for the day (flies, leader, etc.) but if guests need a hat, sunglasses, shirt, sunscreen, etc. they will then be directed to observe our shop rules for entry. Times will be staggered to avoid large groups at once, 7am, 7:20, 7:40 and so on.

Restroom use will be recommended before embarking to limit on river facility use if available and to encourage hand washing at any opportunity.

Guides will be required to wipe down vehicles with an anti-viral disinfectant before loading and embarking. In addition, cleaning again before loading on the return.

During transport to river venue guides and clients must use proper PPE since minimum physical distance will be compromised. Face masks are mandatory, and gloves recommended. Guests will be required to minimize movement within vehicle, containing personal space as best as possible. If space allows, guest may prefer to use back seating in vehicles to create a barrier zone.

River Procedures-

After arrival, guests will be directed to a safe space to maintain good physical distancing while boat preparations are made. Boats will be treated similarly to vehicles and disinfectants regularly used and available. After a safety speech, including a review of viral protocols, facemasks should be in place when boarding and embarking. An awareness for personal space again should be recognized and respected. Nothing should be shared if not cleaned, ie. equipment, sunscreen, etc.

Lunches will be premade/store packaged options only. Buffet or table spread style presentation is not allowed. Guides are required to clean hands and wear gloves during lunch procedures or anytime in which the cooler is entered. All trash should be disposed in a single contained bag, no open buckets allowed. Guests will be encouraged to provide their own water bottles to minimize waste and opening the cooler until lunch.

Post trip-

Guides will be required to report to shop to disinfect PFD’s and report on well-being of the trip. Additional guide gear that came into contact with guests should be wiped or sprayed down with an anti-viral disinfectant.

Snake River Tributaries

Most area creeks are in runoff, however Flat Creek and Fish Creek remain clear and look great. These are mostly running through private lands and access is limited. Flat Creek south of town offers the best public option and has some migrating fish that can surprise you. Expect caddis, march browns and green drakes later in May.