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Born and unleashed by the aqua gods that rule the highest
Yosemite Park peaks, the Merced River roars out of the
park early each spring. This river can be dangerous during
spring run offs when the flows reach 25,000 plus CFS
or more! One can actually stand near the Arch Rock entrance
to this magnificent park and watch the rushing headwaters
begin their journey down some of the most spectacular
steep canyon walls imaginable. If another more breath
taking almost Wild River exists, it must look much like
the mighty Merced.
Beginning up close to the park entrance continuing
down to the tiny town of El Portal fly fishers can
enjoy year round catch and release only with barb less
hooks. Monster Brown trout ten pounds and up thrive
in the warmer Merced waters that turn ice-cold runoff
into perfect rapid growth serum. Rainbows experience
the same quick waistline expansion and can grow up
into the 24-inch class! This river is most often waded
when flows drop into low numbers by mid summer. A word
of caution for waders who are not used to rocky, slippery
maneuvering. This river regardless of seasonal flows
is not one to be disrespected. Rocks and boulders of
every configuration make the going an adventure. Be
prepared to share the water with our dear rafting friends
and those seeking to dip their toes into this pretty
river. If one simply drives along highway -140 and
watches the river meander and give up its secret deep
holes. The results can be educational and conducive
to exciting morning and evening dry fly action in the
early late fall months. |
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Highway-140 hugs this river and makes the access to deep
holes easy to see, but, not always easy to get to. Steep
drop offs and rocky terrain make this river a challenge.
If one takes along a sturdy wading staff and moves carefully,
the excitement of watching huge brown trout and healthy
bows rise out of crystal clear depths makes it well worth
the effort. This part of California is also known for
the occasional rattlesnake among the local residents.
Fly-fishing gear is seasonal with 5/6 weight outfits
usually more then adequate. During late early late fall
dropping down to 3/4 weight makes the river even more
fun. |
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The most effective set up is at least nine feet of tapered
leader followed by 4 to 8 feet of tippet depending on
water depth. Flies that never fail or size #16 or smaller
Beaded Prince Nymphs, Mosquitoes, and a good assortment
of terrestrials including: hoppers, spiders, and ants.
One must of course adjust sizes depending on water flows
and depth. The year round section mentioned above from
park entrance to El Portal is prime dry fly area when
late fall descends on this ethereal water. Those who
thrive on traditional deep nymphing will not be disappointed
in early mid spring. If your adept at rigging deep diving
nymphs with several split shots about four feet above
your fly and working fast water. You will be blessed
with all the action you can handle. As is the case with
most all rivers, hiring a local guide first time out
is always wise. If you only have a few days and really
want to dial in this river, hire a guide. If you're at
ease working streamers using various mending techniques
near ledges and boulders while alternating slow quick
stripping. You will with patience be introduced to local
aquatic citizens full of fight in an unforgettable setting!
Mariposa
The quaint town of Mariposa about thirty miles from
the Arch Rock park entrance has many quality lodgings
set in a place time forgot. Mariposa can also be a
wonderful starting point heading toward the park and
catching the Merced River at the bottom of a steep
grade where highway- 140 flattens out. Here one can
either head toward the park and stop and fish all along
the hiway or take a dirt road that hugs the river downstream
for many miles. If convenience and little time concern
you? Then driving and working the many pools along
the road toward the park may be the way to go. A true
park and throw opportunity exists along this portion
of the river with caution and respect a priority. This
river is easy to find and a challenge to wade and fish
depending on weather and water flows. Late fall when
the river edges turn bright orange and visitors become
scarce is prime time for those who favor solitude.
Eagles, many duck species, doves, fox, raccoon, deer,
and bear occupy this natural corridor to the park.
The ambience of throwing flies in a place that was
deemed magical by Native American Indians will touch
whoever tastes this special place. Depending on the
section of water and the time of year checking special
regulations is always a good idea. This river winds
for many miles in both directions. Highway Ð140 is
the only road out of Mariposa, if you stay on it and
wind down a steep canyon. At the bottom of the hill
a quick turn left puts you on a dirt road that follows
the river. If you stay heading right 140 follows the
river straight to the park. It is easy to find and
many pullouts are available all the way to the Arch
Rock Gate. |
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