Yakima River A Blue Ribbon Trout Fishery
Jack Mitchell
Fly Fisher, Guide, Host
★ ★ ★ ★ ★Jack Mitchell is a seasoned guide and well-traveled fly fisher, having fished throughout North and South America from Alaska to Chile. He considers the Yakima his home water and has guided there for over 35 years. This designated Blue Ribbon fishery is one for your bucket list. Join us and learn everything you need to know about how to fish this outstanding fishery.
Just a few of the questions asked and answered during the interview:
- What characteristics make the Yakima River stand out as a blue ribbon trout fishery?
- What species of fish are available to fly fishers?
- How do fishing conditions and strategies vary across the different seasons on the Yakima?
- Can you describe the differences in fishing approaches between the upper, middle, and lower sections of the river?
- What are the typical water flow patterns throughout the year, and how do they influence fishing tactics?
- What rod and line setups do you recommend for effectively fishing the Yakima?
- Are there specific leader lengths or tippet materials you prefer for the Yakima's conditions?
- Which insect hatches are most significant on the Yakima, and when do they typically occur?
- What are your go-to fly patterns for the Skwala hatch in early spring?
- During the summer months, how do you adjust your fly selection to account for terrestrial activity?
- How do you decide between fishing dry flies, nymphs, or streamers on a given day?
- What signs do you look for when identifying productive water on the Yakima?
- How have conservation efforts impacted the health and sustainability of the Yakima River fishery?
