Good news folks! Nebraska called for some water!
As of June 16, Grey Reef has been bumped up to 1,000 CFS, the most water we’ve seen all year. The additional flow has been a welcome sight and has helped cool down the system after a stretch of warm weather. While conditions have improved, summer is far from over, and a few simple adjustments can go a long way toward keeping our trout healthy during warmer temperatures.
First, fish early. Set the alarm clock and get after it. Water temperatures are coolest in the morning, and the fishing is often at its best before the heat of the day sets in. Second, keep close to the dam. One of the benefits of fishing a tailwater is the steady release of cool, clean water from the dam. Generally speaking, the upper stretches of Grey Reef tend to remain cooler and are less susceptible to warming than downstream sections. Third, bulk up your tippet. Stronger tippet allows you to land fish more quickly, reducing fight times and helping trout recover faster after release.
A couple more easy wins: keep it barbless. Not only is this now required under the new 2026 regulations, but barbless hooks make releases faster and easier. Less time handling fish means less air exposure and a healthier trout swimming away. Lastly, skip the hero shot. We know you’re going to catch some beautiful fish, but a picture isn’t worth adding extra stress during warm water conditions. If you must snap a photo, keep the fish in the net and in the water whenever possible.
The extra water is great news, but good fishing and good stewardship go hand in hand. It is also important to note that you should expect these same practices when fishing with a guide as well. There is a high chance your guide may request an earlier start time. They will also fish higher in the system, use barbless hooks and heavier tippet, and may be quick releasing trout. Go with he flow and just know its all in the name of fish!
