Stream: West Branch Ausable River Fishing Report
Date: 4/16/2026
Flow: 3190 cos
Clarity: N/A
Temperature: 40 Degrees
Current Shop Announcements: We are open for the season! We will be open 9-5 Thursday to Sunday, and open 7 days a week starting April 30th! Stop in and check out some of the new gear, flies, and information here at the shop before our season really kicks off.
Hatches: early brown stone any time
Hot Flies: Dry Flies: Nymphs: Streamers: Wooly Buggers, Sparkle Minnow (Conehead, Articulated, and JIG), classic Mickey Finns and Grey Ghosts, Dhali Lama (olive and brown), Galloup’s Dungeon (mini and regular sized, black, olive, and White) Godzilliz Sculpin: 8-6, Chicago Overcoat: 14-10 (Sculpin, Black, White, Mint), Headbanger Sulpin (mini or regular)
Fishing Outlook: We do not have much to report as it’s still early season in the ADK. We are experiencing high water – no higher than a normal winter flush with the river cresting around 3-4000 cfs. Ice has cleared out of the rivers, but with a wet April so far the water is staying high for now, but will drop to fishable levels with a few days without rain.
Early season Can be quite good but the windows are short and you have to be pretty tuned in – which we are. We do encourage guiding early season because of this. With that said – Word of advice: March and April are tough fishing on the West Branch Ausable. We high encourage anglers to book there destination fishing vacation from May 1st onward. The last few years we have had eager groups fishing in April for days in a row and it’s simply to cold and being flushed with mountain runoff that the bite is minimal. Avoid the disappointment – come May!
Warm Water: Not Yet!
For the most up-to-date reports or if you have any questions regarding fishing strategies give us a call here at the Fly Shop at 518-946-2117.
If you are interested in guided trip or would like more information, please Call 518-946-2117 or email flyfishing@hungrytrout.com for guide inquiries. Thank you and see you soon!
Guiding: Booking for 2026. Record snowpack has the region prepared for an amazing spring.
2 Hour Family Learn-To Fly Fish: For those interested in trying fly fishing but have no idea where to start, we have the perfect adventure for you. Our two hour learn-to fly fish is the perfect choice for you. One trip covers four people, full outfitted, two hours with your very own private guide, instruction, and of course fishing. It is the perfect way for those who are interested in fly fishing to give it a try, or for families looking for an Adirondack fishing experience. We have 4 time slots daily throughout the summer months, 8-10, 10:30-12:30, 1-3, and 3:30-5:30. No prior fishing experience or gear required, we will fully outfit you with all of the necessary fishing equipment. For those interested in booking or have any further questions give us a call here at the shop (518) 946-2117.
For any questions regarding Adirondack Fishing give the Fly Shop a call at (518) 946-2117 a call and we will get everything squared away, and dial you in for your Adirondack Fishing Adventure.
We look forward to seeing you in the shop and on the water. Tight lines!!
