DEERFIELD RIVER FISHING REPORTS
Updated 06/26/2020
Best time of day to fish: Morning/Late Day
Best stretch: Charlemont, and Florida, from the Charlemont boat ramp to Fife Dam.
Best access point:
Florida to Shelburne: From Greenfield, just follow the river along Rte 2 to the many public access areas that also lead to productive fly fishing waters. Once into Charlemont, follow the river along Zoar Road then River Road to additional access and the two Deerfield River Fly Fishing Catch and Release Sections.
Fly fishing hatches in order of importance:
Caddis, March Brown, Sulphers, Hendrickson
Fish species: Trout
Fishing season: Summer
Nearest airport: Bradley International and Albany International
Recommended fly fishing leader: 9 Foot Leader
Recommended fly fishing tippet: 5X or 6X Orvis Mirage or Super Strong
Best fly fishing rod: 9′ 5 Weight Fly Rod
Best floating fly line: WF Trout Fly Line
Best sinking fly line: Class V Sink Tip Fly Line or Hydros HD Depth Charge
Fly Shop:
OVERWATCH OUTPOST
97 Main Street, Charlemont, MA
Report from Overwatch Outpost:
Over the last few weeks water levels have been consistent at our normal wading level of 130cfs, but recently we’ve been seeing a Constant three hour daily release at 800cfs causing water water temp to average in the mid 60s. Morning and evening fishing has been great with BWO’s 18-22 in the mornings and Sulfurs 16-18 during the late afternoon, but be prepared for the Sulphur spinner fall in evening as well. Caddis have been prevalent with sizes starting to get in the areas of #16-20 in tan and black colors. Along with the smaller bugs, Blind casting Isonychia in #10-14, #14 Cahill, or attractors like Stimulators and PMX’s can produce when covering faster moving water. Nymphing during the day with #12 Stones partnered with a smaller #16-18 Pheasant tail, Sulphur, or Isonychia nymphs will get some fish will get some fish as you deal with the afternoon slow down. Although on these very warm days its good to avoid the afternoon and focus on the morning for hopes of left over spinners or small caddis before temps rise. Good luck and keep the lines tight!
If you would like to book a guide, give us a call at 413-339-8800. We offer great rates for drift trips and wading trips, with top notch Orvis equipment!
River Report:
(Updated from Waterline)