One of the most heartbreaking aspects of fly fishing is working hard for a big fish, only to hook it and have it get off in the midst of the fight. Make no mistake, it happens to all of us more often than we’d care to admit! There’s no getting around...
Once mid-June hits, the big hatches in the Eastern U.S. are mostly done, leaving anglers looking for the next thing to keep getting their dry fly fix. For most, the attention should then turn towards terrestrials in the form of ants, beetles, and hoppers. There is some sporadic caddis, midge, and...
One of the more difficult times to catch trout is during the scorching heat of summer when the fish turn lethargic and hatches shut off. Unfortunately for us, the urge to get out on the water doesn’t wane, even if the fishing productivity does. Trout fishing with a fly rod doesn’t...
Summer means dry-droppers for many anglers across the country, and the allure of the productivity found with nymphs paired with the action of a dry fly is the perfect combination. Most trout fishers have a wide array of both dry flies and nymphs in neatly assorted rows in multiple fly boxes. ...
The hikes are long, the views incredible, and the trout stunningly beautiful. It’s the scene that many fly anglers dream of, and the high alpine lakes of the Rocky Mountains hold some extraordinary opportunities for those willing to endure the thin air and arduous miles needed to get there. Many of...
Few situations present more of a challenge for anglers than runoff in the West. Gentle mountain streams become raging torrents and lazy tailwaters become gushing, chocolate milk rivers as snow melts and swells waterways onec runoff gets going in late May and June. Depending on the year, runoff can last well...
Trout fishing is typically synonymous with faster currents in streams and rivers, but lakes can be overlooked gems! Stillwater provides a unique experience and it’s a stark contrast fishing in the moving water. Trout still have likely holding places, but they can sometimes be harder to find. Furthermore, the fly selection...
Fly fishing with streamers is all about mimicking the movement and behavior of prey such as baitfish, minnows, leeches, and crayfish naturally found in the water. By using a variety of proven techniques, your streamer fly will entice almost every fish to strike. But before we get into the How-To's...
There are thousands of different fly patterns with dozens of different color combinations to choose from, but which is the right color combination to use and when? Choosing the right fly color for the moment comes down to two factors, your personal tastes and what color shades are naturally occurring in...
Fishing new streams and rivers will always have a learning curve, no matter how much experience you have. Insect activity and prey will vary from stream to stream, and in some cases, pool to pool. First things first, before nearing the water’s edge keep your distance for a few minutes of...
