FISHING -- Yesterday at this time, with ice still on puddles in the shade of the sage, a hatch of midges and mayflies briefly occurred on Rocky Ford Creek north of Moses Lake.

Most of the anglers I saw were rigged up with nymph or scud patterns, but the several I noticed who transitioned to dry flies had success.

Picking up 3-pound rainbows on dries in February is a good way to burst out of the winter doldrums.

With temperatures into the 50s and a light breeze going on, I expect more surface bliss is occurring today.

Incidentally, Rocky Ford is not an unknown winter fly fishing phenomenon. At least 20 vehicles were parked in three parking lots along the 2 miles of stream near Trout Lodge Hatchery on Monday at 2 p.m.

Also: No ticks to report as of Monday. Expect that to change soon.