Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Sauk River - Sauk - Washington

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges All Day #18-24 Griffiths Gnat, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Noon - 4pm #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph
February Midges All Day #18-24 Griffiths Gnat, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Noon - 4pm #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph
March Blue Winged Olives Midday #16-20 Parachute Adams, Beadhead Pheasant Tail
Skwala Stoneflies Afternoon #8-12 Beadhead Prince Nymph
April Blue Winged Olives Midday #16-20 Parachute Adams, Beadhead Pheasant Tail
Caddis Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis
May Blue Winged Olives Midday #16-20 Parachute Adams, Beadhead Pheasant Tail
Caddis Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis
June Caddis Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis
Green Drakes Afternoon-evening #8-12 Comparadun Green Drake
July Caddis Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis
Terrestrials All Day #6-10 Hopper patterns, Ants, Beetles
August Caddis Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis
Terrestrials All Day #6-10 Hopper patterns, Ants, Beetles
September Blue Winged Olives Midday #16-20 Parachute Adams, Beadhead Pheasant Tail
Terrestrials All Day #6-10 Hopper patterns, Ants, Beetles
October Blue Winged Olives Midday #16-20 Parachute Adams, Beadhead Pheasant Tail
Winter Stoneflies Noon - 4pm #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph
November Midges All Day #18-24 Griffiths Gnat, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Noon - 4pm #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph
December Midges All Day #18-24 Griffiths Gnat, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Noon - 4pm #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

Recognized for its robust salmon and steelhead populations, the Sauk River promises an unparalleled fly fishing experience. Here are some of the exceptional spots:

  • Sauk Prairie Bridge: An easy spot to access, it is popular for steelhead and salmon fly fishing.
  • Darrington: Surrender to the serene beauty of this region while casting for trout.
  • Bedal Campground Area: Offering ample space and a variety of fish species, this spot is a must-visit.
  • Marblemount: This swift and wide part of the river is perfect for challenging your fly fishing abilities.
  • Rockport-Cascade Road: Accessible by foot, it’s an idyllic spot to retreat and focus on the sport.

Each location offers diverse challenges and bounties, making the Sauk River a thrilling location for rookie and veteran fly fishers alike.

Best Access Points

The Sauk River is a favored destination for fly fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of access points:

  • Whitechuck Boat Launch: Located just off Mountain Loop Highway, this is a popular spot for launching drift boats.
  • Sauk Prairie Bridge: There is a launch point underneath the bridge, which leads to superb fishing spots.
  • Government Bridge: You’ll find ample room for parking and easy river access.

A few other notable points for accessing the river include:

  1. Darrington Bridge: Offers both bank and boat access.
  2. Bedal Campground: Accessible from the Mountain Loop Highway, it provides a launch point and a peaceful setting.
  3. Backman County Park: An ideal spot for family outings that offers fishing access.

Local Fish

  • Steelhead Trout: A highly sought after species for its fight and acrobatics,
  • Chinook Salmon: Known for their sizes, these are also abundant in the Sauk River,
  • Coho Salmon: A species that offers a good challenge for fly fishers,
  • Pink Salmon: Caught during the odd years, they offer a great fishing experience,
  • Chum Salmon: Although not as common, they offer an interesting fight,
  • Sea-Run Cutthroat: Smaller than other species, but they provide a quick and light challenge,
  • Dolly Varden: They are popular due to their beautiful colors and strong fight,
  • Sockeye Salmon: Although harder to catch with a fly, they offer a rewarding fishing experience.

About The River

Wind your way down the scenic Sauk River, a magnificent waterway flowing through Minnesota’s rich landscape. The river’s source is the Sauk Lake, from where it journey’s approximately 130 miles southwest before meeting the Mississippi River.

Apart from serving as a recreational hub for canoeing, fishing and hiking, the Sauk River is infused with historical significance. Long ago, it was a lifeline for the Sauk or Sac Native American tribe, from whom it got its name. These indigenous people relied heavily on the river’s resources and the surrounding lands for sustenance and survival.

  • The river’s name ‘Sauk’ comes from the Osakiwug, meaning ‘people of the outlet’
  • It was a vital path used for the fur trade in the 18th and 19th centuries.
  • In 1880, the river powered a number of mills along its bank, contributing to regional economic growth.

So, next time you visit, remember you’re not just encountering a beautiful river, but a living, flowing testament to history!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Recent Articles

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

Hip Waders or Chest Waders? Choosing the right gear for fly fishing can make all the difference in…

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

Welcome to fly tying: How to tie a Pheasant Tail Nymph! If you’re new here or a seasoned…