Western Drakes - everything you didn’t know
July 2, 2009
Author: Trout's Staff
Author: Trout's Staff
The Cold Hard Facts:
Western Drakes, also known as Ephemerella grandis and Ephemerella dodsi, are typically one of the most anticipated hatches of the year. The Ephemerella family, which also includes Blue Wing Olives (BWO’s), Pale Morning Duns (PMD’s), Sulphurs, and Hendricksons, is known for prolific hatches 
that cause trout to feed in an uncommonly aggressive manor. Because of their larger size and gangly nature, the Drake family seems to stand out from the others, and holds a special place in a trout’s heart and diet.
Over the past few years, Colorado Trout Unlimited has been working with water groups from across the state in an attempt to bring more historically accurate spring runoff cycles to rivers controlled by dam. These coordinated efforts have been a great success story for environmentalists and fisherman alike; and have been proven to be invaluable to all our state watersheds. Streams like the Blue River are proof that these natural river flushes drastically improve the rivers ecology in terms of insect life and fish health. Ten years ago this stream had the reputation as being a starile river with meager fish populations. Today, the Blue River is regarded as being one of the states best Blue Ribbon Trout Streams, and a top choice for anglers across the state. As a result of such success stories, other rivers are now benefiting from high annual runoff flows, including the famed Cheesman Canyon of the South Platte River.