Caddis Chronicles

Looks like the warm weather the last couple of days has awakened the streamlife around here.  The rivers and streams are receding from the recent heavy rains and snow run-off.  They are clear now, and at normal spring levels - on the high side, so wade carefully and make sure you cinch up the top of your waders to keep the water out if you go for an accidental swim.

The Little-black Stoneflies and Little-brown Stoneflies have been hatching quite well.  Look for the aggressive rises of trout along the margins of the stream as they chase the egg-laying females skittering on the surface to drop those eggs.  So far, from all the reports I have heard, the fish aren't looking up and taking them, but you never know. 

The early seaon Blue-winged Olives, Baetis tricaudatus, have also been hatching fairly well on some streams, and that can only get better as spring approaches.  

Here's a Little-brown Stonefly catching some rays on a streamside stone.