NJ & NY River Reports

Fishing overall has been good even with the water flows at lower then normal levels.  Water temps are good and fish have been caught on a variety of flies including BWO's and caddis which have been the the most prominent hatches at this point. Midges and scuds should also be considered on the local NJ streams.  Zebras, WD40's, RS2's, etc will also and just about always put fish on the end of the line.

The upper Delaware has been fishing well.  With the lack of rain, NYC is forced to release higher flows down the West Branch to meet downstream flow targets at Montague NJ.  If the water gets too low down there, then the salt line creeps up the river.  Release rates on the West have been approximately 800 cfs which is a great flow for fishing.  You can wade, float, etc.   This time of year you also get great streamer fishing. When the reservoir flips over as air temperatures fall, it send a warm layer of water down to the bottom of the reservoir which drives water temperatures up into the low 50's in the river.  The water also starts to come out dirtier.  Usually in the summer, water temps are very cold at 44 degrees (great for the hot summer) and clear, but in the fall the water gets warmer and dirtier.  This creates an environment for great streamer fishing;  Warm water (increases fish metabolism), dirty water (fish are less picky) and the need to feed to fatten for winter.  The only thing is you will need to fish from Monument pool (NY/PA line) and down river as the upper river closes October 15.