The winter run of migratory rainbows is pretty much over. A few quality fish are scattered around; but the bigs are outta here in numbers. The “green slime” that plagues the UO is now becoming an issue as it covers the bottom in some sections. Overall water temps are much warmer the last few years below Hot Creeks inlets. This accelerates aquatic weed growth, and makes it tough to keep your flies clean. Some turbidity now here also as the snow begins to melt above Big Springs. I believe the cutthroat run will be earlier this season, & we could begin to see the “red sides” on the move by April if the weather pattern continues. Seeing some first generation BWO’s after 2pm with increased feeding from the smaller resident trout. First generation BWO’s, small dark spring caddis, & micro midges are triggering feeding activity from the resident trout on the warmer days. Attractor patterns will get you looks from what is left of the bigs. SJ worms, crystal Vanderleeches, crystal soft eggs, Assassins, and Agent Orange patterns have got us into them while nymphing below an Under-cator. Size 16/18 adult Blue Winged Olive patterns, & small parachute midges will replicate the hatches. Flashback pheasant tails, & Assassins are spot on replicas for the nymph stage of this cold water mayfly. Use #18-22 gillies, crystal chironomid pupa, broken back midges, crystal tiger, & zebra midges for nymphs that imitate midge larva or emergers. Caddis larva are present on the stream bed pumice rocks now. Olive crystal caddis imitations can be a good call for the resident fish grubbing the bottom during warmer periods. Parachute adult midges will get you looks when the fish are feeding on the “clusters” late afternoons. Look for oval depressions that appear brighter, or scraped clean on the riffles below pools. These are active spawning nests; or “redds” and you must avoid stepping on them.