Fly Fishing Stream Conditions Report: North Platte - Gray Reef

This year: Flows on the North Platte at Gray Reef are consistently good, holding steady around 500 CFS. Spring weather has brought warmer temperatures, and bugs are becoming more active, leading to improved fishing across the board. Anglers should be aware of the new 2026 rules and regulations in effect for the Grey Reef, Miracle Mile, and Fremont Canyon sections of the North Platte. Nymphing remains the most consistent technique. Focus on rigs that pair large attractor patterns like annelids and worms with smaller midges, BWOs, and emergers in sizes 18-22. Productive nymph patterns include the RS2, Macgruber, and Span Juan Worm. Streamer fishing is also a strong option, especially during low light conditions; try slow stripping leech or crayfish imitations such as the Etoucray Crayfish deep, or casting large articulated patterns through structure in slower water. While not yet peak dry fly season, look for opportunistic rises to Foam Run Caddis and Parachute Adams patterns.

Best time of day: Morning

Prior years: Fishing on the North Platte - Gray Reef is excellent this month. Flows have been good to high, ranging from 2000 CFS to 2600 CFS. The water clarity is exceptional, often described as clear or gin clear, with some of the best clarity seen in many years for this time of year. Nymphing remains a highly effective technique, offering excellent results. Streamer fishing can also be solid, especially when conditions are right. For those fortunate enough to find the stars aligning, dry fly fishing is possible. Trout are actively leaving spawning areas and returning to their normal feeding behaviors. Anglers are finding success with a variety of patterns. Top nymph patterns include Mayhem Midges in black, gray, and purple, RS2s in black and grey, and Juju Baetis in purple. For streamers, 2 Hook Johnny's in tan, black, rainbow, yellow, and olive are proving effective. When dry fly opportunities arise, try a Purple Parachute Adams or an Extended Body BWO. Other productive patterns include Squirmy Worms, Eggstacy/Slush Jelly Eggs, and Rowley's Waste Troll Leeches. Plan on fishing some smaller bugs. Hatches of Blue Wing Olives are steady, and Midges are also present.