IA Born Report post Posted February 4, 2016 This is going to sound crazy, but we've lived in Flagstaff for just over 8 years and, as much as I love fly fishing, I've never fished The Ferry. We've driven down to the boat ramp as a family once to look around on our way to the north rim, but I've never fished there. Ok, now that I've been ostracized, I'm thinking of taking my daughter up there next Friday, February 12 for some fly fishing. We both have the day off from work/school and are looking for something fun to do. The original plan was some rabbit hunting, but then I thought about The Ferry and how we could get up early, drive up there, and fish the walk-in areas for a 3-4 hours and then boogie back home. With that, I have several questions. 1) Is it even worth it this time of year? Will there be any hatches or good wet bites? 2) What areas are good for me and her to wade in a bit. In reference from the boat ramp/Paria River crossing landmarks I'm familiar with. 3) What patterns beyond the typical midge/pheasant tail/bead heads, etc. that I have should I get, assuming that the answer to number 1 is yes? I promise I won't share any honey holes! Thanks! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
trphyhntr Report post Posted February 4, 2016 throw down the cash for a guide Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
IA Born Report post Posted February 4, 2016 throw down the cash for a guide With all of the soccer expenses of late, taxidermy bill, and upcoming fundraising banquet, hiring a guide isn't an option right now. Thanks. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CouesPursuit Report post Posted February 4, 2016 It's all nymph fishing with the cicada hatch as the only exception in July. It fishes all year. However, there aren't many walk in options upriver from the launch. It is a by boat fishery only for valuable fly fishing in my opinion. Spin fishing the walk in area may be another story, but it's basically a deep slow run. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Str8Shot Report post Posted February 4, 2016 Water flows should be good as should fishing .. Wet flies starting with midges, scuds, and San Juan worms Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
IA Born Report post Posted February 4, 2016 It's all nymph fishing with the cicada hatch as the only exception in July. It fishes all year. However, there aren't many walk in options upriver from the launch. It is a by boat fishery only for valuable fly fishing in my opinion. Spin fishing the walk in area may be another story, but it's basically a deep slow run. That's good to know. I guess I thought people still fly fished the walk in area. We have spinning gear, but my fly rod is calling and she's eager to break hers in. Good stuff to think about! Thanks! 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Str8Shot Report post Posted February 4, 2016 IA in the areas you can really only use spinning rigs , use a clear bubble with a 3 - 4 foot sinking leader then the fly of your choice ... let it move with the current with a slow retrieve ... 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
IA Born Report post Posted February 4, 2016 IA in the areas you can really only use spinning rigs , use a clear bubble with a 3 - 4 foot sinking leader then the fly of your choice ... let it move with the current with a slow retrieve ... Thanks, buddy! I'll run it by my daughter and see what she wants to do. Thanks, all! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CouesPursuit Report post Posted February 4, 2016 I always do well with globugs and zebra midges. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
brent Report post Posted February 4, 2016 In my opinion you do not need a guide, and might catch more fish without one. Some of the best fishing is in the walk in area. I am no expert, but have been a few times up river, and a few times just walking. Where the Paria flows in is a good place to start. Small midges under an indicator bubble is the standard technique along with glo bugs and san juan worms. There is a fly shop up there if you end up needing supplies. This should be an excellent time to go. Also, I think you need to have a Colorado River stamp on your license to fish there (someone correct me if I am wrong). 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Str8Shot Report post Posted February 4, 2016 thought the stamp was included now for all sides of the Colorado ... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
trphyhntr Report post Posted February 4, 2016 In my opinion you do not need a guide, and might catch more fish without one. Some of the best fishing is in the walk in area. I am no expert, but have been a few times up river, and a few times just walking. Where the Paria flows in is a good place to start. Small midges under an indicator bubble is the standard technique along with glo bugs and san juan worms. There is a fly shop up there if you end up needing supplies. This should be an excellent time to go. Also, I think you need to have a Colorado River stamp on your license to fish there (someone correct me if I am wrong). I feel like if it was my first time there and I was bringing family id want a boat simply for the views and the experience of it all. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
brent Report post Posted February 5, 2016 Good point. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
trphyhntr Report post Posted February 5, 2016 not like the walk in is ugly or anything lol Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Big Browns Report post Posted February 5, 2016 Take her to Silver Creek! 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
