05/29/2026: Fraser River

Current Conditions:

Flows on the Fraser were sitting around 53 cfs, and it was a perfect day on the river, though the water was concerningly low for this time of year.

We got on the water around 10:00 AM, and by about 10:30, the caddis started coming off. Once they got going, they didn't really stop for the rest of the day. The hatch slowed down a little each time clouds rolled in, but as soon as the sun peeked back out, things fired right back up.

While we had some success on nymphs, almost all of the real action came on top or just under the surface with dries and emergers. Fish were clearly looking up, and when the light hit right and the bugs were moving, the surface activity was excellent.

The slower water and usual tailouts produced, but the riffles were absolutely on fire and ended up being where we spent most of the day. Fish were holding and feeding confidently in that broken water, and the steady caddis activity made it a great place to stay put and keep picking apart productive lanes.

The caddis were the main story, but we also saw a wild amount of stonefly nymphs, which is a great sign for what could be coming later this summer. It is always nice when the rocks look like a little bug convention, because apparently that is what we have chosen to care about as people.

Smith also caught a surprising brookie lurking by the famous tree stump, which gave him a home run and added a fun little twist to the day.

Overall, it was a strong day on the Fraser with steady caddis activity, excellent riffle fishing, good dry fly and emerger action, and plenty of signs that summer bug activity is starting to build. The low water is definitely something to keep an eye on, but for now, the river is still fishing well if you are thoughtful with your approach.

Flies of the Day:

sz18-20 elk hair caddis

sz18 frenchie

sz18 rubber leg frenchie

sz20 no mercy midge

sz18-20 mole fly

sz18 pat’s midge

sz20 parachute Adams