Traveled #24 | The Lodge at Palisades Creek with Scott Reimer - Snake River, Mutant Stonefly Hatch

#713 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/713 

Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory

Scott Reimer, head guide at The Lodge at Palisades Creek, shares invaluable insights into the unique mutant Stonefly hatch, one of the most fascinating hatches in the Western fly fishing scene.

Throughout the episode, you will be guided through the South Fork of the Snake, learning not only where and when to fish a double dry fly setup but also mastering the art of reading water and setting the hook. Whether you're an avid fly fishing enthusiast or a curious beginner, Scott's tips on drift boat fishing and exploring small creeks will equip you with the tools to enhance your fly fishing adventures.

Episode Chapters with Scott Reimer on The Lodge at Palisades Creek

2:07 - Scott recalls his first encounter with fly fishing in the Black Hills of South Dakota, where he received his first fly rod at the age of four or five. Encouraged by his father, who was an avid fly fisherman, Scott honed his skills in the backyard with a makeshift target practice involving a piece of pipe cleaner and a trash can lid.

4:23 - Scott discusses the guiding season, which typically begins in April when he starts assisting at the fly shop and occasionally running trips, depending on the weather and interest from clients. The main focus of their guiding is on the South Fork of the Snake River, as they hold a permit that allows them to operate there exclusively due to Idaho's strict regulations.

6:34 - We discuss the geography of the area, noting the confluence of the South Fork and Henry's Fork, which marks the beginning of the main Snake River. Scott clarifies that American Falls is approximately 60 to 70 river miles from this confluence.

9:19 - Our chat delves into the impact of hatches on fishing success. Scott explains that fish behavior is closely tied to these natural events, influencing when and where they bite. While some hatches are predictable, others have become less prolific, affecting fishing strategies.

10:02 - Scott shares his journey and experiences as a guide at the lodge, where he has been working for 12 years. He recounts his early days on the river, starting with his first drift boat, an older Clackacraft he acquired at the age of 18. Despite its imperfect condition, with visible repairs and missing parts, it served its purpose and floated well.

12:06 - He discusses the various hatches that anglers eagerly anticipate throughout the fishing season. He mentions the early spring betas, noting that while trout don't often feed on them from the surface, streamer fishing can be effective during this period. As the season progresses into mid-June, anglers can expect a short but excellent green Drake hatch, primarily on the lower river.

13:11 - Scott explains his approach to determining fishing techniques, often starting with a dry dropper setup and adjusting based on fish activity. He shares a memorable experience from the previous season, where he successfully used double dry fly setups for several weeks following the salmon fly hatch, with fish heavily focused on caddis patterns. This technique involved using different sizes and patterns of caddis flies for effective fishing.

14:07 - We get into his double dry fly set up. Scott explains the strategy behind using a larger, more visible dry fly alongside a smaller, less visible one to keep track of potential bites while fishing from a boat. This setup helps maintain visibility and improve the chances of a catch.

18:09 - Scott talks about the logistics and characteristics of the sections near Palisades Dam. He explains that the fishing area is divided into four sections, covering approximately 66 river miles down to Menan. The colder waters from the dam influence the timing of hatches, with the upper section starting later than the lower sections.

19:40 - He shares some essential tips for fishing from a drift boat, especially focusing on the South Fork. As a rower, his primary role is to maintain the drift and guide anglers on when to recast. He advises keeping a 45-degree forward casting angle to maximize success, as casting behind the boat is less effective. Scott notes that on the South Fork, long casts are unnecessary because shorter casts near the boat can be just as fruitful.

21:11 - We discuss how the salmon fly hatch typically occurs in July, followed by the appearance of golden stones, which progress from the lower river upwards. Scott reminisces about a particularly good salmon fly hatch, recalling fishing well into August with these flies. As the season progresses, anglers can expect a variety of mayflies such as PMDs, sulfur duns, and mahogany duns, especially on overcast days.

Towards the end of August, the unique mutant stonefly emerges which are best fished in the early morning. Scott shares the excitement of early morning fishing programs, where anglers start at dawn to target these skittering insects using patterns like Dornan's Water Walker.

23:16 - Scott shares insights into the best fishing practices, emphasizing the importance of water temperature and timing. He recommends fishing with stonefly nymphs, such as patched rubber legs, when water temperatures approach 50 degrees, just before the hatch. This period, often in June, is prime for targeting stonefly nymphs before the larger hatch in July.

28:20 - The conversation highlights the differences between the rivers, with the Henry's Fork experiencing hatches earlier due to its status as a tailwater.

32:30 - Scott shares that Henry Winkler and his wife Stacy are frequent visitors to the area, with Stacy often being guided by Scott himself. They fish separately to enjoy the prime position at the front of the boat, which is typically the best spot because guides naturally focus on the forward drift. This strategy gives the angler in the front the first opportunity at the catch, especially effective when using a double dry fly setup.

37:32 - Scott shares insights into techniques, particularly when navigating new water or changing conditions. He emphasizes the importance of adapting techniques based on the fish's behavior and water conditions. He advises getting the fly close to the bank, especially when fishing with a single dry fly, as fish might be hiding in submerged grass. However, after certain hatches, fish tend to move to seam lines, making a dry dropper setup more effective.

Scott suggests adjusting your approach if fish are not biting, such as changing the depth or the type of flies used. He describes using a double dropper setup, with a big dry fly and a couple of feet to the first dropper, and even adding an unweighted pheasant tail nymph if necessary. He notes that fish behavior can change rapidly, sometimes overnight, requiring anglers to frequently modify their strategies to find success.

39:09 - Scott highlights the significance of local fly shops, such as the Swan Valley, for current fishing insights and guidance.

41:15 - We ask how anglers can avoid missing strikes when fishing with a nymph. Scott emphasizes the importance of setting the hook frequently, noting that "sets are free." He advises that if something seems suspicious with the dry fly, anglers should set the hook without hesitation. Treating the set like a recast means they won't lose much time, and although it might not always be a fish, there's always the possibility that it is.

44:40 - Scott shares his bucket list trips, highlighting New Zealand and Patagonia as top destinations for their exotic fishing opportunities, including the elusive peacock bass.

45:00 - The conversation shifts to Scott's personal experiences with steelhead fishing. He frequently spends time at the Clearwater and Salmon Rivers, with both offering unique challenges and rewards.

47:46 - We talk about the logistics and planning required if you're planning to fish during the prime salmon fly hatch season on the South Fork of the Snake River. Below are some key things to remember:

1. Lodging Guest Advantage: Guests staying at lodges have booking priority. They can reserve trips up to a year in advance when they are checking out, ensuring their spot for the next season.
2. Day Trip Bookings: While day trips are available, they typically fill in the gaps left by lodging guests. Booking for day trips usually opens in April, and availability is limited.
3. Guide Preferences: Lodging guests have the flexibility to select their preferred guides. Day trip customers, however, might need to go with whichever guide is available at the time of their booking.

49:18 - Scott walks us through their lodge. The lodge is set on a 26-acre property featuring a private pond stocked with large trout, fed by a spring creek that runs through the grounds. Guests can stay in various cabins, including a unique cabin with a porch extending over the river, providing an exceptional view. They offer dining with breakfast and dinner, and guests have access to a dedicated staff ensuring a great experience with cocktails and excellent food.

53:08 - We ask some random questions such as his music preference, restaurant recommendations, among others. Scott shares his favorite local restaurants like the SnakeBite and Sandpiper for good meals after a day of fishing. He also highlights the Mountain America Center, which hosts events like hockey games and concerts. Scott mentions enjoying hard rock and metal music, specifically naming Kingdom of Giants as a favorite band.

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/713