Question About Bugs and Stocking After Dam Work

[Laxref29]

Hi all,
I'm trying to plan ahead for a trip back to the Little Mo once stocking resumes. With the recent water issues and dam repairs, I'm wondering about the insect base. If the river has been essentially "reset," are there still reliable midge, caddis, or mayfly populations to support the trout right after an October stocking?

Or should I expect the fish to be more tuned in to eggs, worms, buggers, and other attractors until the bug life rebuilds?

Would really appreciate any insight from folks who have been on the water or know how quickly the insect populations bounce back here.

Thanks in advance.

[Jeff Guerin]

Fresh stockers literally won't care what you throw in there! Woolies, Clouser's, just about anything you feel good about.

It's too late for any good Light Cahill action. If there is a decent hatch (they usually peak in mid October) the fresh fish won't know what they are anyway. 😏

Midges will be the first aquatic of importance and there's usually plenty of those year round. A good sign of aquatic insect health will be the Little Black Winter Stoneflies in January. Stoneflies need high quality water conditions to thrive. If we're seeing those this winter we'll know things are in good shape.

In February the first March Browns should start showing, but they don't peak until all the way to early May. Caddis should be showing in March and throughout the summer.

So, I'm sure you're going to get all kinds of fly suggestions. 😎 Until spring, since there appears to be no educated fish, throw what you want! 😜