Access point

Pactola Dam/Spillwayon Pactola Reservoir

Dam area and immediate downstream tailrace access for concentrated trout fishing and boat launching.

Pactola Reservoir report Directions43.9300°N, 103.6600°W

Bite report · week of Oct 4

What's working on Pactola Reservoir

01Midge pupae and larvae are the primary food source and are consistently effective.
02Mysis shrimp are abundant in the deep, cold waters of Pactola Reservoir and are crucial for active trout.
03Streamer patterns imitating leeches and small baitfish are enticing aggressive strikes.
04Egg patterns are becoming increasingly important as Brown Trout enter their spawning season, attracting opportunistic Rainbow Trout.
05Concentrate efforts in deeper water, particularly around submerged structures and drop-offs.

What to tie on at Pactola Dam/Spillway

Picked from recent reports for this stretch.

dry80%

PMD Comparadun

#16#18

Pale Morning Duns are actively hatching in August, providing a key food source for rising trout in Pactola Reservoir.

nymph80%

Damsel Nymph

#10#12#14

Damsel nymphs are active in late spring and summer on lakes, migrating towards shore and providing a substantial meal for cruising trout in Pactola Reservoir.

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nymph80%

Chironomid Pupa

#12#14#16#18#20

Chironomids are a primary food source in stillwaters during spring, and these conditions are ideal for their activity.

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dry80%

Trico Spinner

#20#22#24#26

Trico hatches are active in August, creating early morning opportunities for technical dry fly fishing on Pactola Reservoir.

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nymph80%

Mysis Shrimp

#14#16#18

Pactola is a reservoir, and Mysis shrimp are a crucial, high-protein food source for trout in deep, cold water year-round.

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nymph80%

Scud (Pink/Orange)

#12#14#16#18

Freshwater shrimp (scuds) are a consistent food source in stillwaters with aquatic vegetation, making them effective in early spring.

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streamer80%

Balanced Leech (Black)

#14#16

Leeches are a staple forage for predatory trout in stillwaters, and a balanced leech is highly effective for mimicking their sluggish movement in cold water.

nymph80%