Fly Fishing Stream Conditions Report: Little Juniata River

This year: The river is running higher than average and remains off-color and stained from recent rainfall. Factual USGS flows for the month have averaged 437 CFS, ranging from a low of 255 CFS to a peak of 811 CFS. While the water remains high and off-color, the best approach is to target the banks and any back eddies with streamers. As water levels begin to drop back down to normal, switching over to terrestrials will serve as an excellent searching pattern along the margins. To match the current conditions and insect activity, plan to carry an Elk Hair Caddis, Mop Fly, Light Cahill Nymph, and Caddis Pupa Nymph in your fly box.

Prior years: Anglers can expect highly productive but localized action. When targeting trout, focus your efforts entirely on fast water. Riffles and pocket water in just a few feet of water or less hold active fish, while slower runs and pools are far less productive. Euro nymphing through these quick currents is highly effective. For bass anglers, conditions can fluctuate. Post-frontal weather can make fish lethargic and difficult to find in deeper pools, but focusing on prime shoreline cover with subsurface presentations yields results. Additionally, topwater popper fishing is a viable option for drawing large fish to the surface when they are actively feeding.