Methow River - Pateros - Washington
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Methow River – Pateros - Water Flow Chart
Methow River – Pateros - Weather report & radar
Methow River – Pateros - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | Afternoon | #18-22 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| February | Midges, Winter Stoneflies | Afternoon | #18-22, #14-18 | Zebra Midge, Winter Stone |
| March | Blue Winged Olives, Midges | Noon-Afternoon | #16-20, #18-22 | BWO Emerger, Zebra Midge |
| April | Blue Winged Olives, March Browns | Mid-Morning, Afternoon | #14-18, #10-14 | BWO Adult, March Brown Nymph |
| May | Caddisflies, March Browns | Morning, Evening | #12-16, #10-14 | Elk Hair Caddis, March Brown Dun |
| June | Yellow Sally Stoneflies, Caddisflies | Mid-Morning, Late Afternoon | #14-16, #12-16 | Yellow Sally nymph, Elk Hair Caddis |
| July | Yellow Sally Stoneflies, Pale Morning Duns | Mid-Morning, Evening | #14-16, #16-20 | Yellow Sally Adult, PMD emerger |
| August | Pale Morning Duns, Terrestrials | Afternoon, Evening | #16-20, #10-14 | PMD Adult, Hopper pattern |
| September | Treestrials, Blue Winged Olives | Morning, Afternoon | #10-14, #16-20 | Ant pattern, BWO Nymph |
| October | Blue Winged Olives, Midges | Mid-Morning, Afternoon | #16-20, #18-22 | BWO Adult, Zebra Midge |
| November | Midges, Winter Stoneflies | Afternoon, Evening | #18-22, #14-18 | Zebra Midge, Winter Stone |
| December | Midges | Mid-Morning | #18-22 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
Methow River – Pateros Access Points
The Methow River, Pateros, is renowned for its amazing fly fishing opportunities. Here are some of the best access points:
- Carlton General Store: It’s open year-round and offers direct access to the river. Remember to check fishing regulations before you begin.
- Pateros Mall: Situated at the confluence of the Methow and Columbia rivers. Great spot for casting a wide range of flies.
- Twin Lakes: This location is perfect for fly fishing in a peaceful, serene setting.
- Blackpine Lake Campground: Offers access to Blackpine Lake which is well-stocked with Rainbow trout.
- Bear Creek Golf Course: Just upstream of the golf course, you’ll find excellent fly fishing spots.
Methow River – Pateros Fishing Spots
The Methow River in Pateros provides some of the finest fly fishing opportunities. Highly recommended spots include:
- Carlton: Accessible with a boat only, it promises an abundance of rainbow and cutthroat trout.
- Twisp: Famous for the largest wild trout in the river, a favorite of avid fly fishers.
- Winthrop: Provides a great variety of species in a scenic mountain setting.
- Early morning or late evening are the best times to ensure a good catch.
- July through October is the best season for fly fishing on the Methow.
- Using a dry fly or nymph can yield the best results.
Methow River – Pateros Local Fish Species
- Rainbow Trout: As one of the most popular fish, Rainbow Trout are often targeted by fly fishers in the Methow River.
- Brown Trout: Named for their coloring, Brown Trout are present in the river and are a challenging catch for those fly fishing.
- Westslope Cutthroat Trout: This native species is often targeted by anglers. Their mouth’s “cut” distinguishes them.
- Steelhead: These fish are aggressive and make for an exciting catch in the Methow River. Their large size and strength makes them a challenging catch.
- Chinook Salmon: Also known as King Salmon, these hefty fish are sought after in the Methow River during their spawning season.
- Coho Salmon: Characterized by their silvery sides and dark back, Coho Salmon are a thrilling catch due to their tendency to leap when hooked.
- Mountain Whitefish: These native fish are a common sight in the Methow River and pose a fun challenge for fly fishers.
- Bull Trout: Considered a threatened species, Bull Trout are not often targeted but are respected and admired by local anglers due to their beautiful markings.
About the Methow River – Pateros
The Methow River is a scenic marvel tucked within the verdant wilderness of Washington State, that flows magnificently to meet Columbia River at Pateros. Named after the Methow Native American tribe, the river has been a prominent lifeline, rich with salmon, for centuries.
The modern history of the Methow Valley region truly began around the late 1800s, when settlers, miners, and fur traders descended upon the region, attracted by its lush greenery and ample wildlife.
- 1892: The town of Pateros was established by Lee Ives.
- 1893: An influx of miners seeking gold raced to the Methow Valley.
- 1940: The iconic Columbia River Bridge was constructed.
Today, boasting a tapestry of vibrant communities, peaceful landscapes, and engaging recreational options, like rafting and fishing, the Methow River – Pateros region shines as an outdoor lover’s paradise.
Community Contributions
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