Reference Guide
Hatch Calendar
What's hatching on the country's best trout rivers — month by month, river by river. Select a month to see what's active, which fly patterns to reach for, and whether runoff might affect conditions. Defaults to the current month.
July
SummerThis monthFront Range, Colorado
PMDs dominant (size 16-18) hatching 9-11am — Parachute PMD or Sparkle Dun. Caddis at dusk. Tricos (size 20-24) early morning on slower stretches. Terrestrials starting.
Central Colorado
Flows dropping post-runoff — prime fishing window opening. Caddis (size 14-16) active. PMDs (size 16-18) beginning mid-morning. Gold Medal water at its best.
Pueblo County, Colorado
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Tricos (size 22-24) early morning. Terrestrials (ants, beetles, small hoppers) mid-day. Fish early to beat afternoon heat. First 2 miles below dam are coolest in summer.
Summit County, Colorado
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Mysis shrimp year-round — especially effective when nothing appears to be hatching. Summer weekend crowds — fish early morning or evening.
Denver Metro, Colorado
Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14). Caddis (size 14-16). Terrestrials (ants #18, beetles) mid-day. Summer prime time if flows are 20-80 CFS sweet spot.
Grand County, Colorado
Post-runoff flows dropping. PMDs (size 14-16) emerging. Caddis (size 14-16). Green Drakes (size 10-12) BEGINNING — watch for this iconic hatch.
Pitkin County, Colorado
PMDs dominant (size 16-18) hatching 9-11am — Parachute PMD or Sparkle Dun. Caddis at dusk. Fish are extremely selective in summer. Smaller fly and finer tippet often wins.
Pitkin / Garfield County, Colorado
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Upper Fork near Aspen excellent. Green Drakes (size 10-12) possible in July.
Larimer County, Colorado
Prime fishing post-runoff. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14). Wild trout in the Gold Medal section above Rustic. One of the Poudre's best months.
Gunnison County, Colorado
PMDs dominant (size 16-18) morning hatches. Caddis evenings. Large selective trout require precise presentations — 5X minimum, technical dead drifts. This is the Taylor at full glory.
Gunnison / Montrose County, Colorado
Post-runoff prime time. Green Drakes (size 10-12) emerging — Gunnison is one of Colorado's premier Green Drake rivers. PMDs (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Pack in via Gorge trails.
Eagle County, Colorado
Post-runoff prime time. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Golden Stoneflies still possible early July. Good hatches near Gypsum that most anglers ignore.
Routt County, Colorado
Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) morning. Salmonfly late stragglers possible early July. The Yampa in July is at its best and sees a fraction of Front Range pressure.
Rio Grande / Mineral County, Colorado
Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) active. PMDs (size 16-18). Streamer fishing for large browns. Gold Medal section near Wagon Wheel Gap at its absolute best in July.
Pitkin / Gunnison County, Colorado
Prime dry fly season. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14) mid-afternoon. PMDs (size 16-18) possible. Stunning canyon setting, wild trout, minimal pressure.
Montezuma County, Colorado
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Summer fishing depends on McPhee reservoir release levels — check CFS before making the long drive from Durango.
Jackson County, Colorado (North Park)
Prime fishing post-runoff. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Golden Stonefly stragglers possible. Northgate Canyon Gold Medal section open — artificial flies and lures only. Wild browns are exceptional.
Gunnison County, Colorado (Crested Butte)
Prime small-stream dry fly season. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sally Stonefly (size 14). PMDs (size 16-18). Wild browns, rainbows, and brook trout in classic alpine pocket water. Crested Butte's best month.
Archuleta County, Colorado (Pagosa Springs)
Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in evenings. Green Drakes (size 10-12) possible through the Pagosa canyon stretch — one of the more reliable Southwest Colorado Green Drake rivers. PMDs mid-morning.
La Plata County, Colorado
Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Golden Stoneflies possible early July. Gold Medal from Lightner Creek to Purple Cliffs fishes exceptionally well.
Gunnison County, Colorado
Prime season. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs (size 16-18). Green Drakes possible (size 10-12) — East River is one of the better small-stream Green Drake waters in the Gunnison drainage. Wild cutthroat respond to big dry flies.
Grand County, Colorado (Winter Park / Tabernash)
Post-runoff prime time. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Wild brown trout in the US-40 corridor reach. St. Louis Creek Campground is the primary access point.
Park County, Colorado (South Park)
PMDs dominant (size 16-18) morning. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (ants #18-20) starting. Summer crowds peak — arrive before 7am for the best water. Afternoon wind on the open meadow makes presentations challenging.
Eagle County, Colorado (Vail)
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) possible — Gore Creek is known for its Green Drake hatch in summer. Walk east toward East Vail on the rec path for solitude. Summer crowds peak near town.
Douglas / Jefferson County, Colorado
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. The 5-mile hike deters crowds — fish are noticeably less pressured than any other Gold Medal South Platte section. Terrestrials effective on canyon walls.
Grand County, Colorado
PMDs mid-morning (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Terrestrials mid-day. Williams Fork in July has almost no competition — most Grand County anglers are on the Colorado River or Blue. Consistently productive.
Grand County / Eagle County, Colorado
Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) beginning — this is one of Colorado's premier Green Drake float fisheries. Big attractor dries taking large fish.
Conejos County, Colorado (Rio Grande National Forest)
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy evenings. PMDs possible (size 16-18). BWOs on overcast days. Hoppers starting along meadow banks. Wild cutthroat respond to attractor dries in July. This is the prime month.
San Miguel County, Colorado (Telluride to Naturita)
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Hoppers starting along canyon banks. CO-145 corridor gives good access to mid-river sections. Stunning canyon scenery — pack a camera. Check lower water temps.
Hinsdale County, Colorado (Lake City)
Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs possible (size 16-18). Hoppers starting along lake outlet meadow sections. Brown trout feeding actively. CO-149 pullouts provide good access. Flows dropping toward optimal.
Natrona County
PMDs dominant (size 16-18) hatching 9-11am. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Midges year-round. Trico spinners (size 22-24) possible in slower flats. Prime summer fishing.
Carbon County
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Midges year-round. Trophy brown trout water — concentrate on deep runs and undercut banks.
Teton County
Post-runoff prime season opening. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Green Drakes (size 10-12) possible. Snake River Finespotted Cutthroat surface feeding.
Sublette County
PMDs dominant (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Trico spinners (size 22-24) in flats. Prime summer fishing on the upper Green.
Park County
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Public access points along the river make it angler-friendly.
Big Horn County
PMDs dominant (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Trico spinners (size 22-24) in flats — selective fish, 6X tippet required. Big rainbows surface feeding.
Albany County
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Agricultural valley sections accessible and productive.
Sublette County
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (size 14-16). Yellow Sallies (size 14). Pinedale-area public access excellent.
Sublette County
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Cutthroat trout in the canyon — beautiful technical pocket water.
Cody / Clark
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Cutthroat and browns in canyon pocket water — quiet alternative to the Shoshone.
Star Valley / Alpine
Caddis continuing (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) at peak — mid-morning sippers in classic riffle-and-run water. Yellow Sallies. Native Snake River cutthroat in meadow flats.
Daggett County
PMDs (size 14-18) dominant — mid-morning sippers in the riffles and slicks. Green Drakes tapering early month. Midges always. Tricos (size 22-24) starting on slower flats. Section B drift trips productive at higher flows.
Wasatch County
PMDs (size 16-18) at peak — Middle Provo PMDs are some of the best in Utah. Caddis evenings. Hopper-dropper rigs starting. Higher releases (often 400–700 CFS) make wading challenging — fish from the bank or float.
Summit County
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Higher irrigation releases continue. Lower Weber through Ogden Canyon distinct water — pair with the Ogden gauge.
Weber County
PMDs continue (size 12-16). Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Green Drakes still active. Hopper-dropper rigs starting. Pineview releases stable through summer.
Duchesne County
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-18) mid-morning. Yellow Sallies (size 14-16) emerging. Caddis evenings. Green Drakes continuing. Big browns to 27 inches documented in the long deep pools.
Cache County
Post-runoff prime season — best dry-fly month. CADDIS (size 14-16) dominant in evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). PMDs (size 14-18) mid-morning. Green Drakes early month. Brookies and cutthroat in upper reaches above 3rd Dam.
Cache County
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Big-river fishing — better access than it appears on a map thanks to braided channels. Less pressured than Green or Provo.
Beaver County
Post-runoff prime season. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Yellow Sallies. Trophy Trout program rainbows and browns to 20+ inches in the right water.
Wayne County
PMDs (size 16-18) dominant. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies continuing. Stoneflies tapering early month. Bicknell Bottoms to Torrey is the trophy section — biggest fish concentrate here.
Garfield / Piute County
PMDs (size 16-18) dominant — best dry-fly month. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers starting (size 8-12). Trout density excellent in the protected canyon reach.
Mountain West
WARNING — water temps regularly exceed 68°F mid-day. Catch-and-release anglers should fish only at dawn or skip Oak Creek through August. Monsoon thunderstorms can color the water and spike flows. Hoppers (size 10-14) when fishable.
Live conditions & advisor →Mountain West
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Cool canyon shading and spring water keep West Fork fishable into mid-summer — a real advantage over the main stem. Monsoon storms can flash flood the slot canyon — DO NOT enter the canyon if rain is forecast upstream.
Mountain West
PMDs (size 16-18) at peak — best dry fly month. Caddis evenings. GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) hatching mid-month — iconic Black River event. Yellow Sallies (size 14-16). Monsoon thunderstorms can spike flows late month.
Mountain West
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14-16). Apache Trout aggressive — catch-and-release only. Monsoon thunderstorms a factor.
Mountain West
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Tailwater dynamic below Hon-Dah — release schedules dominate. Monsoon thunderstorms can spike flows.
Mountain West
PMDs (size 16-18) dominant. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Spring-fed inputs keep Canyon Creek cooler than other Mogollon Rim streams in summer. Monsoon thunderstorms a factor.
Mountain West
WARNING — water temperatures regularly climb past 68°F mid-day below the springs. Fish dawn only. Monsoon thunderstorms can color the water and spike flows. Hoppers (size 10-14) when fishable.
Live conditions & advisor →Mountain West
PMDs (size 16-18) continue. TRICOS (size 22-24) starting on slower flats — early morning spinner falls. Caddis evenings. Hot afternoons even at 6,500 feet — fish early.
Mountain West
PMDs (size 16-18) dominant. Caddis evenings. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Spring-fed pools stay cool — one of the Mogollon Rim's more reliable summer waters. Monsoon thunderstorms a factor.
Mountain West
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning — best dry fly action. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Monsoon thunderstorms can spike flows and color the water.
Mountain West
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Monsoon thunderstorms a factor — flash flood risk in the canyon.
San Juan
PMDs dominant (size 18-20). Caddis (size 16-18) evenings. Midges always. Trico spinners (size 22-24) in flats — selective fish. Ant patterns productive on Quality Waters.
Rio Grande
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 8-12) starting late month. Hot in the gorge — fish early and late. Wild browns in pocket water.
Rio Chama
PMDs dominant (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Hoppers (size 8-12) starting late month. Hot afternoons — fish early in the red-rock canyon.
Cimarron Canyon
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Pocket water in the canyon — perfect dry fly water for new anglers.
Pecos Valley
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Wilderness fishing for native cutthroat at its best — hike in for solitude.
Brazos Box
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Big wild browns in the canyon — technical, remote fishing.
Red River Valley
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Stocked rainbows plus wild browns in deeper pools.
Jemez Mountains
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Hot afternoons — fish early in the canyon. Stocked rainbows plus wild browns.
Gila Wilderness
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Monsoon afternoon thunderstorms common — flows can blow out for a day or two then settle. Hot — fish early and stay hydrated.
Island Park
PMDs (size 14-16) dominant — Henry's Fork PMDs are world-famous. Caddis evenings. Green Drakes tapering. Selective rainbows on Harriman Ranch require 6X tippet and precise drifts. Crowded but worth it.
Swan Valley
PMDs (size 14-16) dominant — mid-morning hatches over rising fish. Golden Stones tapering. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Native Yellowstone Cutthroat surface feeding through Swan Valley.
Sun Valley / Picabo
PMDs continue (size 18-20). Tricos (size 22-24) at peak — early morning spinner falls bring selective rainbows to the surface. Callibaetis still productive. 6X-7X tippet, long leaders, precise drifts.
Sun Valley / Ketchum
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Pocket water through Ketchum at its best — hopper-dropper rigs productive.
Boise / Mountain Home
PINK ALBERT (size 14-16) hatch peaks — the South Fork Boise's signature PMD hatch is iconic. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Hopper-dropper rigs starting to produce.
Stanley / Sawtooth
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning — high-elevation timing means peak PMDs in July/August. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies. Cutthroat in the upper river surface feeding.
North Central Idaho / Lewiston
Post-runoff prime season for resident trout. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Native cutthroat in lower river runs. Hot afternoons — fish early.
North Central Idaho / Clearwater
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Golden Stones tapering. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Native west-slope cutthroat in pocket water — sight fishing prime.
Teton Valley / Driggs
PMDs (size 16-18) dominant — peak hatch month for technical sight fishing. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. HOPPER SEASON starting (size 8-12) — Teton cutthroat hammer hoppers in the meadows.
Island Park / Ashton
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Wild cutthroat and browns surface feeding — less pressure than Henry's Fork.
Idaho Panhandle
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Native west-slope cutthroat in pocket water and pools above Prospector Creek.
North Central Idaho / Clearwater
Post-runoff prime season for resident trout. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Cutthroat through the Wild & Scenic stretches. Hot afternoons — fish early.
North Central Idaho / Clearwater
Post-runoff prime season. Golden Stones (size 6-8) continuing early month. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Native west-slope cutthroat in pocket water — sight fishing prime.
Boise
PMDs (size 16-18) at peak — mid-morning sippers. Caddis evenings. Hopper-dropper rigs starting. Higher releases continue. Fish early or late to avoid summer crowds and heat through the urban corridor.
Ennis / Three Forks
PMDs (size 14-16) dominant — mid-morning hatches over rising fish in the riffles. Golden Stones tapering early month. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Upper Madison through Quake Lake at its best.
Craig / Cascade
PMDs (size 14-16) continuing — mid-morning sippers. Caddis evenings. TRICOS (size 22-24) starting late month — early-morning spinner falls. Hot afternoons but cool tailwater stays productive.
Livingston / Paradise Valley
Post-runoff prime season opening. Salmonflies tapering early month. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Native Yellowstone Cutthroat surface feeding through Paradise Valley.
Wisdom / Melrose
Post-runoff prime season early month. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). HOOT-OWL RESTRICTIONS COMMON late month at 73°F+ — fish dawn and dusk only. Grayling stressed in heat.
Missoula / Hamilton
Post-runoff prime season. Golden Stones tapering. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Hoot-owl restrictions possible in hot afternoons — fish early.
Missoula
Post-runoff prime season. Golden Stones tapering. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Long miles of wadeable riffle through Missoula corridor.
Missoula / Lincoln
Post-runoff prime season. Golden Stones tapering. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Native Westslope Cutthroat in pocket water — sight fishing prime.
Bozeman / Big Sky
Post-runoff prime season. Salmonflies tapering. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Wade-only river — perfect roadside pocket water along Highway 191.
Glacier / Kalispell
Post-runoff prime season. Salmonflies tapering. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning — high-elevation timing means peak July. Caddis evenings. Native Westslope Cutthroat in pocket water — sight fishing prime.
White Sulphur Springs
Float season continuing. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. HOPPERS (size 8-12) starting late month. Hot afternoons in the canyon — fish dawn and dusk. Permit lottery winners only.
Missoula
Post-runoff prime season. Salmonflies tapering. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Wade-only — single barbless hooks in upper sections.
Columbus / Absaroka
Post-runoff prime season. Salmonflies tapering. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning — high-elevation peak. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies.
Big Timber / Absaroka
Post-runoff prime season. Salmonflies tapering. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Quiet alternative to nearby Yellowstone and Stillwater.
Augusta / Great Falls
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). High-plains tailwater fishing — beautiful Rocky Mountain Front backdrop, light pressure.
Twin Bridges / Alder
PMDs (size 16-18) at peak — selective brown trout in the meadow stretches. Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) starting late month. Hot afternoons — fish early.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, small hoppers #12-14). Tricos (size 22-26) early mornings on slower water. Yellow Sally evenings. Hot — fish early or in shaded headwaters.
Appalachians
Tricos (size 22-26) early mornings. Terrestrials (ants/beetles/hoppers) midday. Caddis evenings. Water temps approaching marginal in afternoons — practice C&R care.
Appalachians
Tricos (size 22-26) at peak — early-morning spinner falls in flat tailwater pools. Caddis evenings. Sulphurs winding down. Sight-fishing to selective sippers.
Appalachians
White Fly (size 12-14) HEAVY on lower river at dusk — signature NF Shenandoah hatch. Hopper season for smallmouth. Trout sections marginal — fish dawn/evening.
Live conditions & advisor →Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Tricos (size 22-26) on slower meadow stretches. Cool limestone water keeps fishing strong all month.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime. Tricos (size 22-26) on slower stretches. Yellow Sally evenings. Water can warm — fish early mornings, especially in lower gorge.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18). Yellow Sally. Wild brookies happy with small dry-dropper rigs in plunge pools. Cool headwaters fish well in summer heat.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18). Yellow Sally. Cool headwaters keep fishing strong all summer. Hike in for solitude.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers). Yellow Sally evenings. Cool limestone water keeps fishing strong all summer in the shadow of Massanutten.
Appalachians
Tricos (size 22-26) early mornings. Terrestrials (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18) prime midday. Caddis evenings. Selective tailwater-like fishing in summer.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants/beetles/hoppers). Yellow Sally evenings. Cool elevation makes Watauga an excellent summer refuge when Davidson and others get warm.
Appalachians
Sulphurs continuing into July — unique to Nantahala. Tricos (size 22-26) early mornings. Caddis evenings. Cold tailwater stays fishable when surrounding NC streams warm.
Appalachians
Hopper season starting — New River smallmouth crush hoppers (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Trout headwaters slowing as water warms.
Appalachians
YELLOW SALLY continuing strong (size 14-16). Terrestrials (ants/beetles/small hoppers) building. Cool elevation water fishes well all summer.
Appalachians
Tricos (size 22-26) early mornings on slower stretches. Terrestrials prime midday. Caddis evenings. Water can warm in lower reaches — fish dawn or evening.
Appalachians
YELLOW SALLY continuing (size 14-16). Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18). Cool elevation water fishes all summer — Cataloochee Valley solitude unmatched.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally evenings. Hot summer — fish early mornings, especially in the gorge bottom.
Appalachians
Tricos (size 22-26) at peak — early-morning spinner falls in the lower stretches. Caddis evenings. Sulphurs winding down. Cold tailwater = summer refuge.
Appalachians
YELLOW SALLY continuing strong into July (size 14-16). Terrestrials (ants/beetles/small hoppers) building. Cold elevation water keeps fishing strong all summer.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally evenings. Caddis. Cool Cherokee NF water keeps fishing strong all summer.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally. Cold mountain water keeps fishing strong all summer.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime — Smoke Hole canyon hopper fishing exceptional (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Smallmouth on poppers and crayfish. Trout fishing in cooler limestone reaches.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally evenings. Tricos on slower stretches. Cold rhododendron-shaded headwaters fish all summer.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally evenings. High-elevation cold water keeps fishing strong all summer — pure brookie water.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime — Smoke Hole Canyon hopper fishing exceptional (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Cool limestone seeps keep canyon sections fishable through summer heat.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally evenings. Cool Mon NF water keeps fishing strong all summer.
Appalachians
Terrestrials prime — Pocahontas County hopper fishing exceptional. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sally. Cold limestone seeps keep sections fishable through summer heat.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). TRICO (size 22-26) mornings on slower flats. Yellow Sally (size 16) evenings.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). TRICO (size 22-26) mornings on slower flats. Yellow Sally (size 16) evenings.
Northeast
Sulphurs continuing into July (tailwater extension). TRICO (size 22-24) midsummer. Terrestrials prime. BWOs (size 20) on cloudy days year-round in tailwater.
Northeast
Sulphurs continuing (tailwater extension). Caddis evenings. Summer terrestrials highly effective on warm afternoons. Wild browns of 20+ inches surface-feed regularly.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime. ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) starting late summer — Esopus signature hatch. Trico mornings on slower stretches.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime. Isonychia starting late summer. Cold spring-fed tributaries above hold wild brookies — solitude away from marquee Catskill crowds.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Trico (size 22-26) mornings. Yellow Sally evenings.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Cold spring-fed character keeps small water fishable in summer.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime. ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) starting. Caddis evenings. Stoneflies. Cold High Peaks water keeps fishing strong all summer.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime. ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) starting. Caddis evenings. Cold High Peaks tributaries keep main stem fishable in summer heat.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime. ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) starting. Caddis evenings. Cold Adirondack water keeps fishing strong.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Stoneflies. Cold Adirondack lake outflows keep wild trout sections fishable in summer heat.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime. ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) starting. Caddis evenings. Moose River drainage tributaries hold native brookies.
Northeast
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings — flat-water technical fishing. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Yellow Sally (size 16). Caddis evenings.
Northeast
TRICO peak (size 22-26) mornings — technical flat-water fishing. Terrestrials. BWOs cloudy days. Cold spring source keeps Spring fishable in summer heat.
Northeast
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings on slower stretches. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings.
Northeast
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Spruce Creek corridor — respect private leases, fish public access.
Northeast
TRICO PEAK (size 22-26) mornings — among the most famous Trico hatches in the Eastern US. Cloud-like spinner falls. Terrestrials. BWOs cloudy days.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime (ants, beetles, small hoppers). Caddis evenings. BWOs cloudy days. Tailwater stays cold when freestones warm — fishable mid-summer.
Northeast
SLATE DRAKE (size 12-14) — Pocono summer signature hatch. Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sally (size 16).
Northeast
Terrestrials prime — small water responds well to ants and beetles. Caddis evenings. Flows dropping fast — pick days carefully.
Northeast
SLATE DRAKE (size 12-14) — summer signature hatch. Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Worlds End State Park access.
Northeast
SLATE DRAKE (size 12-14). Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Cedar Run and Slate Run tributaries (no dedicated gauges) hold native brookies.
Northeast
Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Stoneflies. Flows dropping into the summer drawdown — pick days carefully.
Northeast
TERRESTRIALS prime — ants, beetles, small hoppers. Native brookies hammer attractor dries. Flows critical — check gauge before driving.
Northeast
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings — flat-water technical fishing for wild browns. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Light Cahill continuing.
Northeast
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings on slower stretches. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Native brookies in upper reaches and Branches.
Northeast
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings on slower stretches. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Heavy summer ski-country recreation on the river — fish early.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Sulphurs tapering. Lower reaches near Jeffersonville hold larger fish.
Northeast
PMD (size 16) mornings. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Lower reaches toward Burlington warm — fish upper sections only.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials starting. Flows dropping fast — pick days carefully on this small water.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Sulphurs tapering. Less pressure than the Battenkill corridor.
Northeast
TRICO (size 22-24) mornings on slower water. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Cold tailwater keeps fish active in summer heat.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials starting. Flows dropping — pick days carefully.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Sulphurs tapering. Cold headwaters hold native brookies in summer heat.
Northeast
HEXAGENIA (size 6-8) — late June into early July, the iconic dusk emergence on flatter pools. Caddis evenings. Salmon active.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Wild brook trout active in cooler tailwater seams.
Northeast
Sulphurs tapering. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Releases dictate the day — fish low-water windows.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Useful low-water option when Kennebec is blown out.
Northeast
PMDs continue. TRICO (size 22-24) mornings. Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Heritage Brook Trout water in upper reaches.
Northeast
Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Wild brookies and salmon active.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Tide-influenced lower river — fish the freshwater push.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Hare's Ear nymphs. Sulphurs. Terrestrials starting. Above 900 CFS the river becomes unfishable.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Small river — flows often dropping.
Northeast
Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Freestone flows dependent on rain.
Northeast
Sulphurs tapering. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Watch flows — small drainage drops fast.
Northeast
Sulphurs tapering. TRICO (size 22-24) mornings. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime.
Northeast
Sulphurs tapering. TRICO (size 22-24) mornings. Caddis evenings. Tubing pressure heavy mid-day — fish early.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Cold water from Lake Umbagog keeps temps fishable.
Northeast
Sulphurs tapering. TRICO mornings. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Best wading 200–600 CFS.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Stoneflies. Terrestrials prime. Excellent low-water option when other rivers run high.
Northeast
Sulphurs tapering. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Upper river near Twin Mountain stays cold.
Northeast
Sulphurs continuing (tailwater extension). PMDs. Caddis. Terrestrials. Tailwater stays cold all summer — fishable when everything else is blown out.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows — small water drops fast.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Tight canopy technical dries.
Northeast
Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Tailwater stays cold even in summer heat — fish dawn and dusk between releases.
Northeast
TRICO PEAK (size 22-24) mornings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Cold tailwater = best summer trout water in MA.
Northeast
Light Cahill continues. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows — freestone drops fast.
Northeast
Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Freestone drops in summer.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Wild fish in gorge cold pools.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows.
Northeast
TRICO (size 22-24) mornings. Sulphurs tapering. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Spring-fed water stays cool.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Cold flow holds fish through summer.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows — small MA section drops fast.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Headwater spring seeps stay cool.
Northeast
Sulphurs continuing. TRICOS (size 22-24) mornings. Terrestrials. Cold tailwater stays fishable.
Northeast
Isonychia continues. Sulphurs. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Cold tailwater stays productive.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Cold tailwater holds fish.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Cold groundwater keeps fish active.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Forest cover keeps water cool.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Light leaders, careful wading.
Northeast
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows — small water sensitive to dry summers.
Northeast
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Warming water — limited trout activity.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Canopy and cold tributaries keep it fishable.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Tight quarters — careful approach.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Wild brookies in cool upper pools.
Northeast
TRICO PEAK (size 22-24) mornings — the second iconic Gunpowder hatch. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch water temps — stocked fish stress in heat.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Cool forest cover keeps water fishable.
Northeast
Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Cold tailwater stays prime.
Northeast
Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Cold tailwater stays productive.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. High elevation keeps it cool.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Native brookies in cold upper pockets.
Northeast
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Spring-fed pools stay cool.
Northeast
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Limestone-tinged water stays cooler.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Tailwater moderates summer temps.
Northeast
Warmwater dominant — limited trout activity in main stem.
Live conditions & advisor →Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows — gorge fishes best low-to-moderate.
Northeast
TRICO (size 22-24) mornings on lower river. Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Limestone keeps it fishable.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Forest cover keeps water cool.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch water temps.
Northeast
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Water warming — fish dawn/dusk.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Tailwater moderates summer temps.
Northeast
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Water warming — fish dawn/dusk.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Cold reservoir releases keep it cool.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Cold shaded pools hold fish.
Northeast
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Forest cover keeps it cool.
West Coast
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in evenings. Hot weather — fish dawn and dusk. Steelhead arriving in lower river.
West Coast
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Yellow Sallies. Drift boat prime time.
West Coast
PMDs (size 14-16). Green Drakes tapering. Caddis. Selective rainbows demand precise drifts on 6X.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD — the legendary North Umpqua run begins. Fly-only corridor opens for swung flies.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. HALF-POUNDER STEELHEAD beginning in lower river — unique to Rogue, small steelhead under 20".
West Coast
HEXAGENIA at peak — size 6-8 cream-colored mayflies, dusk emergence. PMDs continue. Caddis. Trophy redsides surface-feeding.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Hot weather but consistent tailwater flows. Hopper season opening.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. Tricos starting (size 20-22). Hot weather but spring creek stays cool.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Hot weather — fish early/late.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Hopper-dropper for resident trout.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper season opening. Hot canyon water — early starts.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper season. Bull trout aggressive on streamers.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper season opening. Hot desert water — early starts on remote canyon water.
West Coast
HEXAGENIA at peak (size 6-8). PMDs continue. Caddis. Trophy potential at dusk.
West Coast
HEXAGENIA at peak (size 6-8). PMDs continue. Caddis. Trophy redbands and browns at dusk.
West Coast
CALLIBAETIS at peak. DAMSELFLIES (size 10-12) — sight-fishing to cruising fish. Caddis evenings.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Hot canyon water — early starts and late evenings. Hopper-dropper productive.
West Coast
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hopper season opening.
West Coast
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis. Yellow Sallies. Hopper season opening. Hot canyon water.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper season. Bull trout aggressive on streamers. Hot glacial water.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Hopper-dropper for resident trout.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Hopper-dropper for resident trout.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper season. Bull trout aggressive on streamers. Glacial flows stable.
West Coast
Caddis. Cutthroat. Glacial flows stable. Hot summer — hatches limited.
West Coast
Caddis. Cutthroat. Hot summer — hatches limited. Sea-run cutthroat beginning in lower river.
West Coast
Caddis. Cutthroat. Hot glacial water — early starts. Limited summer hatches.
West Coast
Caddis. Cutthroat. Hot summer — hatches limited.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Hopper-dropper for resident trout.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hopper season opening. Hot urban water.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. TRICOS starting (size 20-22). Hot weather but spring creek stays cool.
West Coast
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis. Yellow Sallies. Naches stays cooler than Yakima mainstem — good summer alternative.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. Yellow Sallies. Hopper season opening. Hot canyon water.
West Coast
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Tricos (size 22-24) early morning. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (ants #18) productive afternoons.
West Coast
HEXAGENIA at peak — massive evening dry-fly emergence on the lower flats. PMDs continue. Tricos (size 22-24) early morning.
West Coast
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hot canyon — start early.
West Coast
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hot canyon — fish dawn and dusk.
West Coast
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hot canyon — start early.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. Yellow Sallies. Tailwater stays cool — quality summer fishing for rainbows.
West Coast
Caddis. Hot lower river — most trout fishing shifts to tributaries. Watch for warm-water closures (release advisories common).
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hot Sacramento Valley — channel tailwater is one of the few cool options.
West Coast
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hot canyon — fish dawn and dusk.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis. Cold tailwater stays fishable when nearby Sierra streams run too warm.
West Coast
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Tricos (size 22-24) early morning. Caddis evenings. Hot desert sun — fish dawn and dusk.
West Coast
PMDs continue. Caddis (size 14-16). Yellow Sallies. Best summer dry-fly fishing on the West Walker.
West Coast
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Wild rainbows and browns aggressive in pocket water.
West Coast
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Tricos (size 22-24) early morning. Caddis evenings. Hot desert sun — fish dawn and dusk.
West Coast
PMDs continue (size 18-20). Tricos (size 22-24) early morning. Caddis evenings. Hot Creek's most demanding fish all year.
West Coast
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Wilderness fishing prime time.
West Coast
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Wilderness backcountry prime time.
West Coast
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Golden Trout Wilderness prime season — the only place to fish for native California Goldens.
West Coast
Hot weather. Closures common — release advisories often in effect. Lower river not productive.
Live conditions & advisor →Great Lakes
HEX HATCH at peak through mid-July (size 4-6) — 10pm to 2am on the Holy Water. The most anticipated hatch in Midwest fly fishing. After Hex tapers: Light Cahills, Trico spinner falls (size 22-24) at dawn.
Great Lakes
HEX HATCH on lower North Branch (size 4-6) when present — verify current locations. Light Cahills, Trico spinner falls early morning. Brook trout in headwaters.
Great Lakes
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) — 10pm-2am. After Hex: Light Cahills, Trico spinner falls early morning (size 22-24). Long days, big nights.
Great Lakes
HEX HATCH at peak through mid-July (size 4-6) — overnight on the M-37 to Gleason's C&R section. After Hex: Light Cahills, Trico spinner falls.
Great Lakes
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) overnight on the upper river. After Hex: Trico spinner falls early morning. Resident browns in technical summer flows.
Great Lakes
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) overnight. Some summer steelhead present below Croton — rare and sought. Trico spinner falls early morning.
Great Lakes
Caddis (#14-16) all day. Light Cahills evenings. TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) early morning on slower flats. Technical summer fishing.
Great Lakes
Caddis (#14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Summer fishing on cool upper reaches; lower river warming.
Great Lakes
Caddis evenings. Resident trout fishing in cool upper reaches; lower river warming.
Great Lakes
Caddis (#14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Summer fishing on cool spring-fed sections.
Great Lakes
Caddis (#14-16). Summer brook trout fishing in cool, technical small-stream water.
Great Lakes
Caddis (#14-16). Summer brookies in spring-fed sections.
Great Lakes
Caddis (#14-16). Summer fishing on cool sections.
Great Lakes
Caddis (#14-16). Summer brookies in cold tannin water.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn 6-9am — classic Driftless event. Sulphurs continuing evenings. Terrestrials (ants, beetles, hoppers) productive mid-day.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs continuing evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Warmer water than the small spring creeks — fish early/late.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn — Black Earth is famous for them. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive. Special-reg section 18" minimum / 1-fish — most fish go back regardless.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Cold spring-creek flows hold up through summer.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials.
Great Lakes
Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive (ants #16-20). Cold spring flows hold brook trout through summer.
Great Lakes
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) — overnight 10pm-2am on deeper sections. After Hex: TRICO spinner falls dawn (size 22-24). Sulphurs evenings.
Great Lakes
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) — overnight 10pm-2am, the defining Wolf River event. After Hex: Tricos and caddis. Above Hwy M on state license; below requires Menominee tribal permit.
Great Lakes
HEX HATCH (size 4-6) at peak — but NIGHT FISHING PROHIBITED on the Brule. Fish to the last legal hour. Caddis and Sulphurs. Box Car Hole closes July 15.
Great Lakes
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) — overnight 10pm-2am, the defining Namekagon event. After Hex: Tricos, caddis. Floats out of Cable and Hayward access prime water.
Great Lakes
HEX HATCH (size 4-6) overnight 10pm-2am. After Hex: caddis, sulphurs, terrestrials. Brook trout active in cold spring flows.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Caddis. Terrestrials productive.
Great Lakes
HEX HATCH (size 4-6) overnight 10pm-2am on upper river. After Hex: caddis, terrestrials. Lower river warms — focus upper.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn 6-9am — classic SE MN Driftless event on tailwater reaches. Sulphurs continuing evenings. Terrestrials (ants, beetles, hoppers) productive mid-day.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Cold spring flows hold up through summer.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Slot-limit fishery.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Slot-limit fishery — flagship MN special-reg water.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
Great Lakes
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive.
Great Lakes
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Great Lakes
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Great Lakes
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Great Lakes
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Great Lakes
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Great Lakes
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Driftless
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn 6-9am — classic Driftless event. Sulphurs continuing evenings. Terrestrials (ants, beetles, hoppers) productive mid-day.
Driftless
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
Driftless
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive.
Driftless
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Larger water than the small spring creeks — holds bigger browns.
Driftless
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cold spring flows hold up through summer.
Driftless
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cold spring flows hold fish through summer.
Driftless
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cold spring flows hold up through summer.
Driftless
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive.
Driftless
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cold spring flows hold up through summer.
Driftless
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive.
Driftless
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive.
South
Tricos (size 22-24) morning spinner falls — classic White River event. Sulphurs continuing evenings. Caddis. Midges. Scuds.
South
Sulphurs continuing evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Midges. Scuds. Smaller water than the White — fishes earlier after generation drops.
South
Sulphurs continuing evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Midges. Scuds. Hydropeaking peaks with summer power demand.
South
Sulphurs continuing evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Midges. Scuds. Cold spring water at 58°F when surface waters across the South are too warm to fish.
South
Caddis evenings. Midges. Water warms in summer — focus shaded reaches and tributary mouths.
Great Lakes
Hex (size 6-8) at peak on warmer evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) dawn. Terrestrials. Water warms — focus upper river and tribs.
Great Lakes
Hex evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) dawn. Terrestrials. Focus upper river as lower warms.
Great Lakes
Light summer fishery — primarily a steelhead river. Caddis, terrestrials.
Great Lakes
Light summer — water can run extremely low. Terrestrials.
Great Lakes
Light summer. Terrestrials.
Great Lakes
Light summer. Terrestrials.
Great Lakes
Light summer. Terrestrials.
Central Ohio
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn spinner falls. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive in farm country.
Central Ohio
Smallmouth top-water peak — poppers, divers, crayfish. Terrestrials productive.
Central Ohio
Caddis evenings. Midges. Water warms — focus reservoir release windows.
South
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn spinner falls. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Spring-fed flows stay cold while surrounding streams warm up.
South
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Alley Spring keeps the Fork cold through summer drought.
South
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn spinner falls — exceptional on the Eleven Point. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials.
South
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn spinner falls. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Cold spring water keeps fish active.
South
Caddis evenings. Midges. Spring-fed flows stay cool through summer.
South
Caddis evenings. Smallmouth strong on the lower river. Trout reach holds with cooler spring inputs.
Appalachians
Tricos (size 22-24) early-morning spinner falls on slower flats. Sulphurs continue evenings. Terrestrials (beetles, ants size 14-18) productive mid-day. Watch water temps in summer heat.
Appalachians
Tricos (size 22-24) early-morning. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials (beetles, ants size 14-18) effective mid-day on the wild trout.
Appalachians
Tricos possible on slower flats. Sulphurs continue. Terrestrials (beetles, ants size 14-18) productive mid-day. Watch summer water temps.
Appalachians
Tricos possible on slower stretches. Sulphurs continue. Terrestrials (beetles, ants size 14-18) productive on the wilderness streams.
Appalachians
Tricos (size 22-24) early-morning on the slower flats. Sulphurs continue. Terrestrials (beetles, ants size 14-18) productive mid-day.
Appalachians
Sulphurs continue evenings. Tan caddis afternoons. Terrestrials starting. Watch generation schedule — pulses can be dangerous mid-river.
Alaska
Sockeye salmon at peak — flesh and egg patterns become productive for rainbows. ⚠️ Late-run king salmon FULLY CLOSED (no fishing, no C&R) through Aug 15 per 2026 ADF&G emergency order. Big rainbows feed heavily on salmon eggs and fry.
Live conditions & advisor →Alaska
PEAK SOCKEYE RUN. Parking lot fills by 5 AM. Flesh and pink flies for sockeye; rainbows beginning to feed on eggs in side channels. The most heavily fished sockeye stream in Alaska.
Live conditions & advisor →Alaska
Sea-run Dolly Varden arrive — fish swing flies and small streamers on the lower river. Dollies remain through fall.
Alaska
PEAK GRAYLING MONTH on dry flies. Elk-hair caddis (size 14-16), Humpies, Wooly Worms. Sockeye continuing. Standard 47-mile Paxson-to-Sourdough float in prime condition (Class II+ III/IV section).
Alaska
Salmon-driven trout fishery. Resident rainbows and cutthroat keying on salmon eggs. King salmon entering (verify 2026 SE emergency orders). Coastal Dollies abundant.
Live conditions & advisor →Alaska
King salmon continuing. Sockeye at peak — Bristol Bay run is one of the largest in the world. Rainbow fishery building as salmon start dropping eggs.
Live conditions & advisor →Mountain West
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers (#8–10), Ants, Foam Beetles; evening caddis
Mountain West
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants, Beetles; tailwater holds fish through summer heat
Mountain West
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants; summer pressure is high
Mountain West
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants, Beetles; best summer fishing
Mountain West
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants, Beetles
Mountain West
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants; remote access means better fish
Appalachians
Midges, Scuds, Sowbugs. Low-light streamer fishing for trophy browns. Beat the heat early or late.
Appalachians
Midges, Scuds, Sowbugs. Cold outflow keeps fish active through the heat.
Appalachians
Terrestrials, Midges. Streamers for Walleye and Smallmouth — trout fishing slows in summer heat.
Appalachians
Midges, Terrestrials. Streamers for Walleye — trout fishing slows in summer heat.
Appalachians
Terrestrials dominate — Hoppers (#8–10), Foam Ants, Beetle patterns. Topwater poppers at dawn/dusk.
Appalachians
Midges, Ants (#18–20). Fish early or late — middle of the day quiet.
Appalachians
Terrestrials dominate — Hoppers (#10), Foam Ants, Beetles. Best summer fishing of the year.
Mountain West
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants, Beetles; streamer fishing for browns
Mountain West
Terrestrials—Hoppers (#8–10), Ants, Beetles; evening Caddis
Mountain West
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants; low clear water favors stealthy approach
Mountain West
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants, Beetles
Mountain West
Caddis peak, Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants; prime summer fishing
Mountain West
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants; check gauge before driving
South
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers (#8–10), Foam Beetles; topwater for bass
South
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers, Foam Ants, Beetles; small Poppers at dawn/dusk
South
Terrestrials; carp: Backstabber, Mop Flies; topwater for bass at dawn/dusk only
South
Terrestrials only; Foam Beetles (#12), Hoppers (#8–10); pool-hopping if low
South
Terrestrials; best fishing weekday mornings before tubers arrive
South
Light Cahills (#14–16); Midges; small terrestrials in canyon
South
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers, Foam Ants, Beetles; topwater bass
South
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers (#8–10), Foam Beetles; topwater bass
South
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Foam Beetles; topwater redeye/bass at dawn/dusk
South
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Foam Ants, Beetles; sight-fishing in karst clarity
South
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers, Beetles; aggressive redeye topwater
South
Midges; Elk Hair Caddis evenings; small Terrestrials; Beetles in canyon shade
South
Midges; Elk Hair Caddis (#14–16); small terrestrials; canyon shade key on hot days
South
Terrestrials dominate — Hoppers (#8–10), Foam Beetles; aggressive topwater bass
South
Terrestrials — Hoppers, Beetles; sight-fish to pool smallmouth in clear water
South
Terrestrials — Hoppers, Beetles; aggressive smallmouth and longear sunfish
South
Terrestrials — Hoppers, Beetles; topwater bass; catfish in deep holes at dusk
January Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — January
Midges (size 22-26) dominate. Fish midge pupa and larva sub-surface. Dry fly action rare but possible on warm afternoons with a Griffiths Gnat #22.
Arkansas River — January
Midges (size 22-26) dominate. Best action on sunny afternoons when fish move to feed. Streamer fishing can produce large browns in Salida corridor.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — January
Tailwater flows consistent below Pueblo Reservoir year-round. Midges (size 20-26) primary. Trophy rainbows in the first 4 miles below the dam are active even in January. City Park access keeps you off ice.
Blue River — January
Midges (size 22-26) dominate all winter. Mysis shrimp imitations (size 16-20, white/cream) are effective year-round — Dillon Reservoir flushes Mysis into the tailwater constantly. One of Colorado's most reliable cold-weather fisheries.
Bear Creek — January
Small stream in winter. Fish move to deep pools. Midges (size 22-24) primary. Below 15 CFS conditions get very tough. Check gauge before driving out.
Colorado River — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominant. Big river in winter — fish deep runs and slow edges near Kremmling. Streamers productive for large browns.
Frying Pan River — January
Midges (size 20-26) dominate this tailwater year-round. Consistent flows below Ruedi hold large selective rainbows even in January — one of Colorado's best winter fisheries. Fish midge larva and pupa in slots and seams.
Roaring Fork River — January
Midges (size 20-24) primary in lower canyon near Glenwood Springs. Upper sections near Basalt fish better in winter — less icing. Streamers for large browns in deep runs.
Cache la Poudre River — January
Midges (size 22-26) dominate the canyon. Fish deep pools below Poudre Park on sunny afternoons. BWOs possible on mild days. Front Range location means milder winters than mountain streams.
Taylor River — January
World-class midge fishing year-round (size 22-28). Reservoir regulation maintains 40-50°F water all winter. Large rainbows and browns active in deep canyon pools. This is one of Colorado's premier winter fisheries.
Gunnison River — January
Midges (size 20-24) and streamers dominate. Black Canyon access is very difficult in winter. Lower river near Delta more accessible but colder. Streamers for large browns in deep runs.
Eagle River — January
Midges (size 22-26) dominate. Eagle River runs through the I-70 corridor — accessible in winter from the interstate. Fish deep pools near Minturn and Gypsum. Streamers productive for large fish.
Yampa River — January
Midges (size 20-24) and streamers dominate. Steamboat Springs section has decent winter access through town. Fish deep runs in the Fish Creek confluence area. Brown trout active in cold water.
Rio Grande — January
Midges (size 20-24) primary in the Gold Medal section. San Luis Valley winters can be brutal — temperatures well below zero possible. Fish deep pools near Wagon Wheel Gap when accessible.
Crystal River — January
Small stream in deep winter. Fish move to slow pools below Marble. Midges (size 22-24) primary. Crystal Valley road can be difficult — check conditions before heading above Redstone.
Dolores River — January
Tailwater below McPhee Reservoir maintains consistent flows year-round. Midges (size 20-24) dominant. Large rainbows and browns active in cold weather. Southwest Colorado location means milder winters than mountain rivers.
North Platte River — January
Extreme cold in North Park — temperatures well below zero common. Midges (size 22-26) when accessible near Walden. Wild brown trout in deep pools. This is remote, cold, and serious winter fishing. AWD and warm gear required.
Slate River — January
Small alpine stream in deep winter. Crested Butte receives massive snowpack — access on Slate River Road possible when plowed. Midges (size 22-24) primary. Wild fish dormant in deep pools.
San Juan River — January
Midges (size 20-24) primary through Pagosa Springs Riverwalk. Pagosa has a mild mountain climate — warmer than northern Colorado. Wild rainbows and browns active in slower stretches below town.
Animas River — January
Midges (size 20-24) primary through Durango. Animas flows through downtown — city park access year-round. Wild browns in deep pools below the Lightner Creek confluence. Streamers productive for larger fish.
East River — January
Small freestone river in deep winter. Gothic and upper sections inaccessible. Midges (size 22-24) in slow pools near Crested Butte. Wild cutthroat and browns dormant in deep runs. CB access only.
Fraser River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Fraser runs along US-40 — road access good but cold. Grand County winters are extreme. Wild browns in deep pools near Tabernash. Moffat Tunnel diversion reduces gauge readings vs. actual flow.
Dream Stream — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary on this flat meadow water. January Dream Stream is for the committed — South Park at 9,000 ft in winter is brutally cold. Fish slow runs with long leaders and 6-7X tippet. Trophy browns active on sunny afternoons.
Gore Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary through Vail village. Gore Creek accessible year-round via the paved rec path — unique in Colorado. Cold alpine winter at 8,150 ft but the urban stretch stays open. Most of the valley is skiing in January.
Cheesman Canyon — January
Midges (size 22-26) on remote canyon water. The 5-mile hike on Gill Trail (#610) deters virtually all winter visitors — complete solitude in January. Fish slow pools and seams with long leaders. Cheesman is for the committed.
Williams Fork River — January
Midges (size 22-26) below Williams Fork Reservoir — one of Colorado's least-fished winter tailwaters. Quality brown trout with essentially zero competition. Reservoir regulation means consistent cold water year-round.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — January
Midges (size 20-24) and streamer fishing for large browns in the deep holes. This is float territory in winter — wade access is minimal. Big attractor streamers in the slow edges and eddies. Runoff season still months away.
Conejos River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Conejos River in January is remote and cold — San Luis Valley and Conejos County winters are serious. Wild Rio Grande Cutthroat dormant in deep pools. Access via CO-17 requires checking road conditions.
San Miguel River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Upper Telluride sections (8,750 ft) are cold and potentially iced over. Lower canyon sections near Norwood and Naturita more accessible. San Miguel in January is a remote winter adventure.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Lake City and the Lake Fork in January is extreme — Lake San Cristobal area is remote and cold. Fish deep pools below the lake outlet. Virtually no angling pressure December through March.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominate this tailwater year-round. Streamers (Wooly Buggers, Sex Dungeons) for trophy browns staging in deep runs. Grey Reef releases keep water near 40°F — fish active all winter.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominate this remote tailwater year-round. Streamers for trophy browns. Seminoe Reservoir keeps water cold but flowing. Remote — check road conditions.
Snake River — January
Limited winter fishing — most sections ice over or run very low. Midges (size 22-24) on rare mild days in lower river. Most anglers wait for spring. Check conditions before driving.
Green River — Fontenelle — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominate this tailwater year-round. Fontenelle releases keep water cold and consistent. Streamers for big browns. One of WY's most reliable winter fisheries.
Shoshone River — January
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days near Cody. Most upper sections frozen — fish lower river below Buffalo Bill Reservoir. Streamers in deep pools.
Bighorn River — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominate this tailwater year-round. Below Bighorn Lake stays open all winter — releases keep water cold and consistent. Streamers for trophy browns.
Laramie River — January
Limited winter access — most sections ice over. Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days in deeper pools. Plan for spring through fall.
New Fork River — January
Limited winter fishing — most sections frozen. Midges (size 22-24) on rare warm days in deeper pools. Plan for late spring through fall.
Hoback River — January
Limited winter fishing — Hoback Canyon mostly frozen. Some lower sections near Snake River confluence may have midge action on warm days. Plan for late spring.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — January
Midges (size 22-24) dominate canyon pools — limited winter fishing in the dramatic Clarks Fork canyon north of Cody. Most upper sections snowed in along the Beartooth. Plan for late spring through fall.
Salt River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of the Salt freezes through Star Valley meadow stretches. Some spring-fed sections may stay open with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Green River — January
Midges (size 18-22) dominate this Flaming Gorge tailwater year-round. Reservoir releases keep water cold and consistent — Section A from the dam to Little Hole fishes in any weather. Streamers for trophy browns. One of the West's most reliable winter fisheries.
Provo River (Middle) — January
Midges (size 20-26) dominate this Jordanelle tailwater year-round. The Middle Provo fishes through the coldest weeks thanks to dam releases. Wading near Heber can be icy but the fishing is reliable. 6X tippet, precise drifts.
Weber River — January
Limited winter fishing — Echo tailwater section stays open with midges (size 22-24) but lower stretches through Weber Canyon often ice over. Streamers for browns in deeper holes.
Ogden River — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominate this Pineview tailwater year-round. Reservoir releases keep the Ogden Canyon reach open through cold weeks. Streamers for browns in deeper pockets.
Strawberry River — January
Limited winter fishing — Strawberry Reservoir releases keep the WMA section flowing but the canyon reach often ices in. Plan for late spring through fall.
Logan River — January
Limited winter fishing — Logan Canyon stretches freeze. Lower river near Logan may stay open with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Bear River — January
Limited winter fishing — Bear River through Cache Valley partially ices. Some lower stretches near Smithfield may stay open with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons.
Beaver River — January
Limited winter fishing — Beaver River freezes in most sections through the Tushars. Plan for late spring through fall.
Fremont River — January
Limited winter fishing — Fremont River freezes in most upper sections. Some deeper pools near Bicknell may hold midge-feeding fish on warm afternoons (size 22-24).
East Fork Sevier River — January
Limited winter fishing — Kingston Canyon freezes in most sections. Some deeper pools may hold midge-feeding fish on warm afternoons (size 22-24).
Oak Creek — January
Midges (size 20-24) primary on this lower-elevation Sedona canyon stream. AZGFD typically stocks rainbows through cool months — fishing is best within a week of a stocking drop. Quiet weekday mornings rather than weekends to avoid the Sedona crowds.
West Fork Oak Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) dominant in the deep canyon pools. Fly-fishing-only, catch-and-release year-round. Spring-fed flows keep the upper canyon fishable when other AZ streams are tough. Cold but quiet in winter.
East Fork Black River — January
Limited winter fishing — White Mountains heavily snowed in. Forest Road 276 typically impassable. Plan for late spring through fall.
West Fork Black River — January
Closed conditions — White Mountains heavily snowed in, primitive roads impassable. Plan for late June through October prime window.
North Fork White River — January
Limited winter fishing — White Mountains heavily snowed in. Tribal permits typically issued for the open season only. Plan for late spring through fall.
Canyon Creek — January
Limited winter fishing — primitive roads can be impassable after snow or rain. Some deeper pools may hold midge-feeding fish on warm afternoons (size 22-24). Quiet, cold canyon fishing.
Tonto Creek — January
Midges (size 20-24) primary. AZGFD typically stocks rainbows through cool months — fishing is best within a week of a stocking drop. Travertine springs near Natural Bridge add stable cold-water inputs.
Silver Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) dominate this spring-fed Show Low creek year-round. Catch-and-release season (Oct 1 – Mar 31) — artificial flies or lures with single barbless hooks only. Cold but reliably fishable thanks to the constant spring source.
East Clear Creek — January
Limited winter fishing — Mogollon Rim country snowed in at elevation. Approach roads impassable after storms. Plan for late spring through fall.
Little Colorado River — January
Limited winter fishing — White Mountains snowed in. Some lower stretches near Springerville may stay open with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Chevelon Creek — January
Limited winter fishing — Mogollon Rim country at elevation. Approach roads impassable after storms. Plan for late spring through fall.
San Juan River — January
Midges (size 22-26) dominate this Gold Medal tailwater year-round. Navajo Dam releases keep water cold and consistent. Cluster patterns and tiny emergers — 6X-7X tippet required. Streamers for trophy browns.
Rio Grande — January
Limited winter fishing — Taos Box mostly frozen on shaded sections. Midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons in lower canyon. Plan for spring through fall on the Rio Grande.
Rio Chama — January
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days in this El Vado tailwater. BWOs possible on overcast afternoons. Lower flows in winter make wading easier. Streamers for browns.
Cimarron River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of Cimarron Canyon ices over. Midges (size 22-24) possible in deeper pools on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Pecos River — January
Limited winter fishing — upper Pecos in the Sangre de Cristos heavily iced. Midges (size 22-24) possible in lower stretches near Pecos village on warm days.
Brazos River — January
Limited winter access — Brazos Box canyon road impassable in winter. Plan for late spring through early fall on this remote fishery.
Red River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of the Red River freezes through the town and upper sections. Midges (size 22-24) possible in deeper pools on warm afternoons.
Jemez River — January
Limited winter fishing — Jemez Mountains receive heavy snow but the lower Jemez near the springs stays fishable. Midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons.
Gila River — January
Year-round fishery at this elevation. Midges (size 20-24) primary in canyon pools. BWOs possible on overcast afternoons (size 20-22). Cold mornings, mild middays — fish the warmest part of the day. Don't forget the free Gila Trout Conservation Permit.
Henry's Fork — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominate this spring-influenced river year-round. Box Canyon and Last Chance stretches stay open thanks to spring-fed flows. Streamers for big browns. Quiet, lightly pressured winter fishing.
South Fork Snake River — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominate this Palisades tailwater year-round. Reservoir releases keep water near 40°F and consistent. Streamers for brown trout in deep runs. Big-water winter fishing for the dedicated.
Silver Creek — January
CLOSED — Silver Creek is closed December 1 through Memorial Day weekend. Plan your Silver Creek trip for late spring through fall.
Big Wood River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of the Big Wood freezes through Ketchum and Hailey. Some lower sections may stay open with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons.
South Fork Boise River — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominate this Anderson Ranch tailwater year-round. Reservoir releases keep water cold and consistent. Streamers for trophy browns. One of ID's most reliable winter fisheries.
Salmon River — January
Limited winter fishing — most upper sections frozen. Some lower river opportunities for steelhead — the Salmon supports an annual steelhead run. Check IDFG seasonal regulations and bait/tackle rules.
Clearwater River — January
B-RUN STEELHEAD continuing — winter steelhead season on the Clearwater is legendary. Single-spey and skagit-style swung flies in deep runs. Resident trout limited — focus on steelhead. Check IDFG seasonal rules.
Lochsa River — January
CLOSED to most fishing in winter — Lochsa is catch-and-release only and most stretches close in winter for native cutthroat protection. Check IDFG regulations for current open dates.
Teton River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of the Teton freezes in the meadow stretches. Some spring-fed sections may stay open with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Fall River — January
Limited winter fishing — Fall River freezes in most sections. Some lower stretches near Ashton may stay open with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons.
St. Joe River — January
Limited winter fishing — most stretches closed for native cutthroat protection. Steelhead fishing on the lower St. Joe / Coeur d'Alene Lake system possible (where seasons allow). Check IDFG rules.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — January
STEELHEAD season continuing where IDFG seasons allow — winter steelhead run on the Middle Fork supports the legendary Clearwater system. Resident trout fishing limited. Check current IDFG regulations.
Selway River — January
CLOSED to most fishing in winter — Selway is catch-and-release only and most stretches close in winter for native cutthroat protection. Check IDFG regulations for current open dates.
Boise River — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominate year-round on this Lucky Peak tailwater. Reservoir releases keep flows fishable through the urban Greenbelt all winter. Streamers for trophy browns in deeper holes. One of ID's most reliable cold-weather walk-and-wade fisheries.
Madison River — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominate. Lower river below Ennis Lake stays open through cold snaps. Streamers for big browns in deep runs. Quiet winter fishing on one of the West's most famous rivers.
Missouri River — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominate this Holter Dam tailwater year-round. Reservoir releases keep the Mo open through the coldest winters. Streamers for trophy browns in deeper runs. One of MT's most reliable cold-weather fisheries.
Yellowstone River — January
Limited winter fishing — most upper sections frozen. Lower Yellowstone below Livingston may stay open in mild stretches with midges (size 22-24). Plan for late spring through fall.
Big Hole River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of the Big Hole freezes through Wisdom and the upper valley. Some lower river opportunities near Melrose with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Bitterroot River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of the Bitterroot freezes through Hamilton. Lower river near Missoula confluence may have midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for the iconic Skwala hatch in March.
Clark Fork River — January
Midges (size 20-24) on warmer days in lower Clark Fork below Missoula. Some big-water winter opportunities for streamer anglers chasing trophy browns. Most upper sections freeze.
Blackfoot River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of the Blackfoot freezes through the upper valley. Some lower sections near Bonner with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Gallatin River — January
Limited winter fishing — Gallatin Canyon freezes through Big Sky. Some lower river opportunities below Bozeman with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Flathead River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of the Flathead system frozen through Glacier and the Bob Marshall. Plan for late spring through fall on this Wild & Scenic system.
Smith River — January
CLOSED to canyon access — float permits run May–July only. The Smith canyon is inaccessible by road. Apply for the FWP permit lottery by mid-February for next year's May–July float season.
Rock Creek — January
Limited winter fishing — most of Rock Creek freezes through the canyon. Some lower stretches near the Clark Fork confluence with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Stillwater River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of the Stillwater freezes through the canyon. Some lower stretches near Columbus with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Boulder River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of the Boulder freezes through the canyon. Some lower stretches near Big Timber with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Sun River — January
Limited winter fishing — Gibson Dam tailwater stays semi-open in some stretches with midges (size 22-24). Most of the Sun freezes east of Augusta. Plan for spring through fall.
Ruby River — January
Limited winter fishing — most of the Ruby freezes through the meadow stretches. Some tailwater sections below Ruby Reservoir with midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Rapidan River — January
Midges (size 20-26) on warmer afternoons. Small BWOs (size 20-22) possible on overcast days. Wild brookies hold deep — fish slow with a small attractor or tiny midge dropper.
South River — January
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Small BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Stocked rainbows and browns hold in deeper runs — slow nymph rigs and small streamers.
Jackson River — January
Midges (size 20-26) dominate — the Jackson tailwater fishes year-round below Gathright Dam. Small BWOs (size 22) on overcast afternoons. Cold consistent flows.
North Fork Shenandoah River — January
Limited trout fishing — winter stocking concentrated in select sections. Midges (size 20-24) primary where stocked. Lower river holds smallmouth in deep slow runs.
Bullpasture River — January
Most sections low and cold — wild brown and brook trout in deep pools. Midges (size 20-24) on warmer afternoons. Plan for spring through fall.
Maury River — January
Cold and low through Goshen Pass. Midges (size 20-26). Wild brown and rainbow trout in deep pools. Limited winter fishing — challenging wading in low flows.
Rose River — January
Cold backcountry headwaters — minimal winter activity. Midges (size 22-26) when fishable. Native brook trout tucked into the deepest pools. Plan for spring.
Conway River — January
Cold remote backcountry — minimal winter activity. Midges (size 22-26). Native brookies tucked into deep pools. Plan for spring.
Passage Creek — January
Cold Fort Valley flows. Midges (size 20-26) on warmer afternoons. Wild brookies and browns in deep pools — limited winter activity.
Davidson River — January
Midges (size 20-26) dominate — Davidson fishes year-round in the Delayed Harvest sections. Small BWOs (size 22) on overcast afternoons. Slow nymph rigs in deep pools.
Watauga River — January
Cold high-elevation flows. Midges (size 20-26). BWOs (size 22) on warmer cloudy days. Stocked sections with limited activity — wild trout tucked into pools.
Nantahala River — January
Midges (size 20-26) year-round dominant — cold consistent dam releases. Small BWOs (size 22) on overcast afternoons. Reliable winter tailwater.
New River (North Carolina) — January
Cold New River winter — limited trout activity in headwaters. Smallmouth dormant. Midges (size 20-24). Plan for spring through fall.
Oconaluftee River — January
Cold Smokies headwaters — wild trout deep and slow. Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity. Cherokee Reservation section gets some pressure year-round.
French Broad River — January
Cold upper French Broad headwaters. Midges (size 20-26) primary. Stocked rainbows in select sections. Limited winter activity.
Cataloochee Creek — January
Remote GSMNP backcountry — limited winter activity. Midges (size 22-26) when fishable. Wild brookies tucked into deepest pools. Plan for spring — long unpaved access road.
Linville River — January
Cold gorge water — limited winter fishing in the wilderness. Midges (size 20-26). Wild trout in deep pools. Hike-in conditions treacherous in winter.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — January
Midges (size 20-26) year-round dominant — cold consistent Wilbur Dam releases. Small BWOs (size 22) on overcast afternoons. One of the East's best winter tailwaters.
Little River — January
Cold Smokies headwaters — wild trout deep and slow. Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity. Plan for spring through fall.
Tellico River — January
Cold Cherokee NF freestone — limited winter activity. Midges (size 20-26). Wild rainbows tucked into pools. Plan for late March opener.
Cranberry River — January
Cold remote Monongahela backcountry — limited winter activity. Midges (size 22-26). Most anglers wait for spring. Plan for late March opener.
South Branch Potomac River — January
Cold limestone water — wild trout deep and slow. Midges (size 20-26). Smallmouth dormant in lower river. Limited winter trout activity.
Elk River — January
Cold Central Appalachian headwaters — wild brook and rainbow trout in deep pools. Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — January
Cold high-elevation Mon NF flows — limited winter activity. Midges (size 22-26) when fishable. Native brookies tucked into deepest pools. Plan for spring.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — January
Cold limestone canyon water — wild trout deep and slow. Midges (size 20-26). Smoke Hole Canyon dramatic but quiet in winter — limited activity.
Williams River — January
Cold remote Mon NF backcountry — limited winter activity. Midges (size 22-26). Native brookies tucked into deep pools. Plan for spring.
Greenbrier River — January
Cold limestone-influenced flows. Midges (size 20-26). Stocked trout in select sections. Wild trout deep in pools. Limited winter activity.
Beaverkill River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold pool-and-riffle water — fish deep slow seams. Fly shops at Roscoe quiet. Plan for April Hendrickson opener.
Willowemoc Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold water — fish deep slow seams. Junction Pool quiet. Plan for April Hendrickson opener.
East Branch Delaware River — January
Cold tailwater stays consistent — Pepacton releases moderate winter flows. Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs (size 22) on cloudy days. Wild browns active in deep tailwater seams.
West Branch Delaware River — January
Cold tailwater consistent — Cannonsville winter releases. Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs (size 22) cloudy days. Trophy wild browns in deep tailwater runs.
Esopus Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Freestone water cold and slow — fish deep pools above Phoenicia. Limited winter activity.
Schoharie Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Northern Catskills freestone cold — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Neversink River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold water — fish deep slow pools. Historic river quiet in winter.
Rondout Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26). Small upper Catskills tributary — cold and slow in winter. Limited activity.
Ausable River (East Branch) — January
High-elevation Adirondack water cold and locked. Midges (size 22-26) when fishable. Most anglers wait for spring.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — January
Cold Adirondack winter — limited activity. Midges (size 22-26) on warmer days. Plan for spring.
Saranac River — January
Cold Adirondack winter — limited activity. Midges (size 22-26) on warmer days. Plan for spring.
Raquette River — January
Cold Adirondack winter — limited activity. Midges (size 22-26) on warmer days. Plan for spring.
Black River (upper) — January
Cold Adirondack foothills — limited winter activity. Midges (size 22-26). Plan for spring.
Penns Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary in cold limestone flows. BWOs (size 22) on overcast afternoons. Wild browns deep — slow nymph rigs.
Spring Creek — January
BWOs (size 20-22) and midges (size 22-26) year-round on this limestone spring creek. Stable cold flows below Bellefonte — one of the best winter fisheries on the East Coast. Sight-fishing wild browns in clear water.
Big Fishing Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Limestone influence keeps Class A wild browns active in deep pools. Slow nymph rigs.
Little Juniata River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Wild browns deep in pools — slow nymph rigs. Tyrone-to-Spruce Creek corridor quiet in winter.
Yellow Breeches Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary year-round on this limestone. BWOs (size 22) on cloudy mild afternoons. Boiling Springs section fishes well in winter.
Tulpehocken Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) dominant year-round on the Tully tailwater. Cold dam-controlled flows from Blue Marsh keep fish active. Cold winter fishery within an hour of Philly.
Brodhead Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold Pocono freestone — fish deep slow seams. Limited winter activity.
Bushkill Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Small freestone — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Loyalsock Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold remote freestone — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Pine Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold canyon water — limited winter activity. Hike-in gorge sections inaccessible.
Kettle Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold remote Potter County water — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Young Womans Creek — January
Cold remote Clinton County water — locked up. Plan for spring opener.
Battenkill River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Wild browns deep in pools — cold gin-clear water demands long leaders. Manchester/Arlington corridor quiet in winter.
White River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold central VT freestone — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Mad River — January
Cold ski-country freestone — limited winter activity. Plan for spring opener.
Lamoille River — January
Cold northern VT freestone — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Winooski River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold central VT mainstem — limited winter activity in upper sections.
Dog River — January
Cold small stream — locked up. Plan for spring.
Black River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold southern VT freestone — limited winter activity. North Springfield Lake provides some flow moderation downstream.
West River — January
Cold tailwater consistent in winter. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Spooky wild browns deep in tailwater seams. Check USACE release schedule.
Williams River — January
Midges (size 22-26) when fishable. Cold small freestone — limited winter activity.
Missisquoi River — January
Cold far-northern VT water — locked up at higher elevations. Plan for spring opener.
West Branch Penobscot — January
Locked up — winter ice. Ripogenus releases minimal. Plan for May smelt run.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — January
Locked up. Plan for May smelt run.
Kennebec River – The Forks — January
Cold and quiet. Limited winter access. Plan for spring.
Dead River — January
Iced over. Plan for spring.
Sandy River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Carrabassett River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Magalloway River — January
Cold tailwater — Aziscohos releases minimal. Limited access in remote Rangeley region.
Narraguagus River — January
Cold Downeast water — limited winter activity. Plan for spring salter run.
Rapid River — January
Locked up. No road access — plan for May–October window.
Roach River — January
Locked up. Remote access — plan for spring.
Kennebago River — January
Locked up. Plan for May smelt run.
Ellis River — January
Cold small drainage — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Swift River — January
Cold pocket water — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Saco River — January
Cold large freestone — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Androscoggin River — January
Cold big water — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Pemigewasset River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Wild River — January
Cold remote wilderness stream — locked up at elevation.
Ammonoosuc River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — January
Cold tailwater consistent — bottom-release dam keeps water from icing over completely. Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 22) on cloudy days.
Smith River — January
Cold small freestone — limited winter activity.
Cold River — January
Cold small mountain stream — limited winter activity.
Deerfield River — January
Cold tailwater — Midges (size 22-26) and BWOs (size 22) on warm days. Wading windows brief between releases.
Swift River — January
Year-round tailwater. MIDGES (size 22-28) the dominant winter food. BWOs (size 22) on cloudy days. Tiny dries and emergers.
Westfield River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
West Branch Westfield River — January
Cold mountain freestone — limited winter activity.
East Branch Westfield River — January
Cold freestone gorge — limited winter activity. Plan for spring.
Millers River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Squannacook River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Nissitissit River — January
Cold spring-fed freestone — limited winter activity.
Cold River — January
Cold mountain stream — limited winter activity.
Farmington River (MA Section) — January
Cold Berkshire freestone — limited winter activity.
Ware River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Farmington River — January
Year-round tailwater. MIDGES (size 22-28) primary. BWOs (size 22) on cloudy days. Long leaders, light tippets.
Housatonic River — January
Cold tailwater — Midges (size 22-26) and BWOs on warm days.
Salmon River — January
Cold tailwater — Midges (size 22-26) when fishable. C&R season.
Willimantic River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity. Cole Wilde TMA C&R only.
Natchaug River — January
Cold forest freestone — limited winter activity.
Shepaug River — January
Small spring-influenced freestone — limited winter activity.
Mad River — January
Small impoundment-fed stream — limited winter activity.
Bantam River — January
Lake-fed gentle flow — limited winter activity.
Blackledge River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Jeremy River — January
Small shaded freestone — limited winter activity.
Still River — January
Cold small freestone — limited winter activity. Still TMA C&R only.
Gunpowder Falls — January
Year-round tailwater — MIDGES (size 22-28) primary. BWOs (size 22) on cloudy days. Selective wild browns key on size 22+ patterns.
Little Gunpowder Falls — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Big Hunting Creek — January
Cold mountain freestone — limited winter activity. Year-round fly-only C&R within the park.
Savage River — January
Year-round Trophy Trout tailwater — MIDGES (size 22-28) primary. BWOs on warm days. Cold consistent water.
North Branch Potomac River — January
Cold tailwater — MIDGES (size 22-26) primary. BWOs (size 22) on warm days.
Youghiogheny River — January
Cold mountain freestone — limited winter activity at elevation.
Casselman River — January
Cold pastoral freestone — limited winter activity.
Antietam Creek — January
Cold limestone-influenced creek — limited winter activity.
Catoctin Creek — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Patuxent River — January
Cold tailwater — Midges (size 22-26) and BWOs on warm days.
Monocacy River — January
Warmwater river — limited trout activity.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Musconetcong River — January
Cold limestone-influenced freestone — limited winter activity.
Big Flat Brook — January
Cold mountain freestone — limited winter activity.
Pequest River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Paulinskill River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Rockaway River — January
Cold tailwater — Midges (size 22-26) and BWOs on warm days.
Ramapo River — January
Cold freestone — limited winter activity.
Wanaque River — January
Cold tailwater — Midges (size 22-26) and BWOs on warm days.
Black River (Lamington River) — January
Cold gorge freestone — limited winter activity.
Pequannock River — January
Cold mountain freestone — limited winter activity.
Deschutes River — January
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Steelhead season closing — wade carefully on icy banks.
McKenzie River — January
Midges (size 20-24). BWOs on overcast days (size 20-22). Cold but fishable — drift boats running.
Metolius River — January
Midges (size 22-26) year-round dominant. BWOs possible on overcast days. Cold spring creek — selective fish, long leaders.
North Umpqua River — January
Winter steelhead in lower river. Trout fishing slow — cold canyon water. Midges and BWOs on milder days.
Rogue River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD in middle and lower Rogue. Trout fishing slow above Lost Creek Lake. Midges on milder days.
Williamson River — January
Midges (size 22-26) year-round. BWOs on overcast days. Cold spring-fed flows — slow technical fishing.
Crooked River — January
Midges (size 20-24) year-round dominant. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Tailwater stays open all winter — one of OR's best cold-weather fisheries.
Fall River — January
Midges (size 22-26) year-round. BWOs on overcast days. Spring creek stays cold and clear — selective fish, long leaders.
Sandy River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD season. Trout fishing slow — cold glacier flows. BWOs on milder days.
Clackamas River — January
Winter steelhead season. Cold flows. Midges and BWOs on milder days.
Grande Ronde River — January
Cold canyon water — limited winter fishing. Midges on milder days.
Wallowa River — January
Cold mountain river — limited winter fishing. Midges on milder days. Bull trout hold in deep pools.
John Day River — January
Cold high-desert canyon — limited winter fishing. Midges on milder days.
Sprague River — January
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs on overcast days. Cold meadow flows — slow technical fishing.
Wood River — January
Midges (size 22-26) year-round. BWOs on overcast days. Spring creek stays cold and clear.
Hosmer Lake — January
Lake frozen — no fishing. Plan for late spring through fall.
Yakima River — January
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Cold canyon water — fish midday on warmer days.
Wenatchee River — January
Cold mountain freestone — limited winter fishing. Midges on milder days.
Methow River — January
Cold canyon water — limited winter fishing. Midges on milder days. Steelhead season closures common.
Skagit River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD season — Skagit is one of the lower 48's most legendary winter steelhead rivers. Trout fishing slow — cold glacial flows.
Skykomish River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD season. Cold cascade flows. Trout fishing slow — midges on milder days.
Stillaguamish River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD season — Stilly is one of WA's most important wild winter steelhead rivers. Cold flows. Trout fishing slow.
Sauk River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD season — the Sauk is one of the lower 48's most iconic swing-fly winter steelhead rivers. Cold glacial flows.
Hoh River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD season — the Hoh is one of the most iconic wild winter steelhead rivers in the lower 48. Cold rainforest flows.
Bogachiel River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD season — Bogey is a top OP wild winter steelhead river. Cold rainforest flows.
Queets River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD season — wilderness river through Olympic National Park. Heavy rain and high glacial flows common.
Sol Duc River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD season — Sol Duc is a classic OP wild winter steelhead river. Cold rainforest flows.
Snoqualmie River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD season. Cold cascade flows. Sea-run cutthroat starting late month.
Spokane River — January
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Cold urban flows — fish midday on warmer days.
Little Spokane River — January
Midges (size 22-26) year-round dominant. BWOs on overcast days. Cold spring-fed flows — selective fish, long leaders.
Naches River — January
Cold mountain freestone — limited winter fishing. Midges on milder days.
Tucannon River — January
Cold canyon water — limited winter fishing. Midges on milder days.
Hat Creek — January
Midges (size 20-26) dominate. PG&E powerhouse releases keep wild section flows steady. Selective wild rainbows demand 6X tippet.
Fall River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Spring-fed flows stay constant year-round. Float tube or pram only — no wading on most reaches.
Pit River — January
Midges (size 20-24) primary. PG&E powerhouse flows stay consistent year-round. Cold canyon — limited winter fishing.
McCloud River — January
Midges (size 20-24). Cold remote canyon — limited winter access. Native redband rainbows in deep pools.
Upper Sacramento River — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominant. SKWALA STONEFLY (size 8-10) possible late month — the Upper Sac is one of the earliest Skwala rivers in the West.
Trinity River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak in the Lewiston tailwater — swung flies and indicator rigs. Midges and BWOs for resident rainbows.
Klamath River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD in the lower river. Cold weather, limited access. Watch for evolving CDFW regulations post-dam removal.
Feather River Low Flow Channel — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominant. PG&E low-flow channel stays cold and consistent year-round. Wild trout C&R section.
Truckee River — January
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Cold mountain water. Tahoe outflow keeps lower river fishable when other Sierra streams freeze.
Little Truckee River — January
Midges (size 20-24) dominant. Small tailwater — Stampede Reservoir keeps flows consistent. Selective wild trout.
East Walker River — January
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Bridgeport Reservoir tailwater stays consistent. Trophy browns require fine tippet and small flies.
West Walker River — January
Cold high-gradient stream — limited winter access. Midges on milder days when accessible.
Lee Vining Creek — January
Cold high-Sierra creek — limited winter access. Tioga Pass closes in winter; verify access before driving.
Owens River — January
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Pleasant Valley tailwater stays consistent year-round. Selective wild trout — 6X minimum.
Hot Creek — January
Midges (size 22-26) dominant year-round. Geothermally-influenced flows stay warm enough to fish through winter. Extremely selective wild rainbows.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — January
Cold high-Sierra canyon — most access closed. Winter wilderness, no realistic fishing window.
Kings River — January
Cold high-Sierra canyon — Kings Canyon Scenic Byway closed in winter. No practical fishing access.
Kern River — January
Cold mountain water — Kernville section accessible but cold. Wilderness Golden Trout reaches inaccessible (snow).
Russian River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak — fish entering the river through Sonoma County. Indicator nymphing and swung flies on the lower river.
Au Sable River — January
Closed to trout fishing — Michigan inland trout season is closed. Steelhead absent from the Au Sable mainstem. Off-season.
Au Sable North Branch — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Au Sable South Branch — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Pere Marquette River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD entering the river from Lake Michigan — peak holding water below Baldwin. Indicator nymphing with eggs, stonefly nymphs, and bead-head nymphs. Swung-fly for committed swing anglers.
Manistee River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD below Tippy Dam — one of Michigan's top winter steelhead fisheries. Egg patterns, stonefly nymphs, bead-head nymphs in deep runs.
Muskegon River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD below Croton Dam — consistent tailwater flows hold fish year-round. Egg patterns, nymphs, and bead-heads in deep runs.
Jordan River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Boardman River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD on lower river — fresh access from Grand Traverse Bay following dam removals. Cold-water nymphing for committed anglers.
Betsie River — January
WINTER STEELHEAD entering from Lake Michigan at Frankfort. Cold-water nymphing in deep runs. Egg patterns and nymphs.
Pine River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Pigeon River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Sturgeon River — January
Closed to trout fishing on most sections. Some lower-river steelhead access via the Inland Waterway.
Black River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Two-Hearted River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Cold UP winter — most access roads impassable.
Fox River — January
Closed to trout fishing. UP winter.
Timber Coulee Creek — January
Closed to trout fishing — Wisconsin inland trout season closed. Off-season.
West Fork Kickapoo River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Kickapoo River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Black Earth Creek — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Mt. Vernon Creek — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Elk Creek — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Blue River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Seas Branch — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Tomorrow River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Wolf River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Bois Brule River — January
Closed to trout fishing on most reaches. Mays Ledges closed September 1–May 31. Verify open sections — Brule has complex year-round seasonal closures.
Namekagon River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
White River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Far north Wisconsin winter.
Prairie River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Oconto River — January
Closed to trout fishing on most reaches. Some lower-river steelhead access — verify WDNR.
Root River — January
Closed to trout fishing — MN inland trout season closed. Off-season.
South Branch Root River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
North Branch Root River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Whitewater River — January
YEAR-ROUND CATCH-AND-RELEASE inside Whitewater State Park boundaries. Midges and BWOs on warmer days. Outside park: closed.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
North Fork Whitewater River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Trout Run Creek — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Rush Creek — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Straight River — January
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Knife River — January
Mostly closed for trout. Some lower-river steelhead access — verify MN DNR North Shore tributary rules.
Baptism River — January
Mostly closed for trout. Lower-river steelhead access on open sections — verify MN DNR North Shore tributary rules.
Cascade River — January
Mostly closed for trout. Lower-river steelhead access on open sections — verify MN DNR North Shore tributary rules.
Temperance River — January
Mostly closed for trout. Lower-river steelhead access on open sections — verify MN DNR North Shore tributary rules.
Brule River — January
Mostly closed for trout. Lower-river steelhead access on open sections — verify MN DNR North Shore tributary rules.
Poplar River — January
Mostly closed for trout. Lower-river steelhead access on open sections — verify MN DNR North Shore tributary rules.
Upper Iowa River — January
Year-round trout season in Iowa. Midges (size 22-26) primary in cold water. Limestone-spring temps stable through winter — fishable on warm afternoons. Big mainstem holds fish in deep runs.
Yellow River — January
Year-round Iowa trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Limestone-spring flows stable through winter — fishable on warm afternoons.
Volga River — January
Year-round Iowa trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Limestone-spring flows stable.
Turkey River — January
Year-round Iowa trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Limestone-influenced flows stable through winter.
Bloody Run Creek — January
Year-round Iowa trout season. CATCH-AND-RELEASE ONLY, ARTIFICIALS ONLY. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold limestone-spring water stays open all winter.
Paint Creek — January
Year-round Iowa trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold limestone-spring water stays open.
Bear Creek — January
Year-round Iowa trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold limestone-spring water (North/South Bear) stays open all winter.
North Fork Maquoketa River — January
Year-round Iowa trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Limestone-influenced flows stable through winter.
Waterloo Creek — January
Year-round Iowa trout season. ARTIFICIALS ONLY, C&R ONLY in posted sections — Iowa's most-famous catch-and-release stream. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold limestone-spring water stays open all winter. No live USGS gauge — gauge downgraded to stage-only in 2023; check with regional fly shops before driving.
French Creek — January
Year-round Iowa trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold limestone-spring water stays open. No USGS gauge — fly shops are best source for current conditions.
Village Creek — January
Year-round Iowa trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold limestone-spring water stays open. No USGS gauge — fly shops are best source.
White River — January
Year-round Arkansas trout season. Midges (size 20-24) primary on the Bull Shoals tailwater. Cold dam-release flows stay in trout-water year-round. Scuds (size 14-18, olive/orange/pink) always productive.
North Fork River — January
Year-round Arkansas trout season. Midges (size 20-24) primary. Cold Norfork Dam release stays cold year-round. Scuds (size 14-18, olive/orange/pink) always productive.
Little Red River — January
Year-round Arkansas trout season. Midges (size 20-24) primary on the Greers Ferry tailwater. WORLD-RECORD WATER — 40 lb 4 oz brown trout 1992. Cold dam-release flows stay in trout-water year-round. Scuds (size 14-18) always productive.
Spring River — January
Year-round Arkansas trout season. Midges (size 20-24) primary on cold spring water. Mammoth Spring discharges rock-steady ~270 CFS at 58°F year-round. Scuds (size 14-18) productive.
Crooked Creek — January
Year-round Arkansas trout season. Midges (size 20-24) primary. Smaller Ozark freestone — colder than the tailwaters, depending on weather. Scuds (size 14-18) productive.
Chagrin River — January
STEELHEAD primary (egg patterns, sucker spawn, stoneflies, streamers). Midges (size 22-26) for resident trout. Cold winter water — read the gauge before driving.
Grand River — January
STEELHEAD primary. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, stoneflies, streamers. Super gauge (water-quality + flow) helps time the bite. Midges for resident fish.
Rocky River — January
STEELHEAD primary in Cleveland Metroparks Rocky River Reservation. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, stoneflies, streamers. Highly stocked — strong winter fishery.
Vermilion River — January
STEELHEAD primary. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, stoneflies, streamers. Smaller water than Grand/Chagrin — drops out fast after rain spikes.
Conneaut Creek — January
STEELHEAD primary. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, stoneflies, streamers. Smaller, intimate water near the OH/PA line.
Cuyahoga River — January
STEELHEAD primary in CVNP. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, stoneflies, streamers. NPS optimal flow 250–350 CFS — read the Jaite gauge.
Ashtabula River — January
STEELHEAD primary. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, stoneflies, streamers. Smallest of the Steelhead Alley tribs — reads very small.
Mad River — January
Year-round Ohio trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary on this spring-fed limestone stream. Cold groundwater keeps fish active through winter.
Big Darby Creek — January
Cold-season smallmouth fishery — slow, deep nymphing if you fish. Scenic river designation; exceptional biodiversity.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — January
Cold winter on regulated flows below Clear Fork Reservoir. Midges (size 22-26) on stocked holdovers. Read both gauge and reservoir releases.
Current River — January
Year-round Missouri trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Streamers for big browns in cold water — pre-spawn / winter aggression. Spring-fed flow stays consistent through cold snaps.
Jacks Fork River — January
Year-round Missouri trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Streamers for big browns — winter pre/post-spawn aggression. Spring-fed flow from Alley Spring keeps system consistent.
Eleven Point River — January
Year-round Missouri trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary on this gin-clear Wild & Scenic river. Streamers for wild browns in cold water.
North Fork of White River — January
Year-round Missouri trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary on this spring-fed wild trout river. Streamers for big wild browns in cold water.
Huzzah Creek — January
Year-round Missouri trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold spring-fed flow holds stocked fish well through winter.
Gasconade River — January
Cold winter — focus the upper trout reach near Hazelgreen. Midges (size 22-26) on stocked trout. Slow, deep presentations.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — January
Year-round Georgia trout season. Midges (size 22-26) primary on stocked rainbows and browns. Fish slow, deep presentations on cold winter days. Below 50 CFS the river runs spooky-clear.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — January
Year-round Georgia trout season. Midges (size 22-26) on wild rainbows and browns at Burrells Ford. Cold winter wading — wear cleated boots on the slick bedrock.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — January
Year-round Georgia trout season. Midges (size 22-26) on wild and stocked trout in the headwaters above the Georgia Power impoundment chain. Cold, low water — fish deeply.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — January
Year-round Georgia trout season. Cohutta Wilderness — long hike in. Midges (size 22-26) primary on the wild trout. Night fishing prohibited on the Conasauga watershed year-round.
Soque River — January
Year-round Georgia trout season. Midges (size 22-26) on wild and stocked trout. Most of the Soque is private — verify access before fishing.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — January
Year-round Georgia trout season. NO USGS GAUGE — check the TVA Blue Ridge Dam generation schedule (tva.com) before fishing. Midges (size 22-26) on the trophy tailwater browns. Non-generation flows ~15-30 CFS; generation 400-1200 CFS.
Kenai River — January
Alaska gauges typically offline Nov–April due to ice. River frozen on edges; resident rainbow trout fishery effectively closed. ⚠️ 2026 King salmon: FULL CLOSURE in effect for the entire 2026 season per ADF&G emergency order. Verify at adfg.alaska.gov.
Russian River — January
Off-season. Alaska gauges typically offline Nov–April due to ice. River frozen.
Anchor River — January
Off-season. Gauge typically offline due to ice. Plan for late August steelhead opener.
Gulkana River — January
Off-season. Gauge typically offline due to ice. Plan for June float-trip window.
Situk River — January
Late winter steelhead — small fishery for hardy locals. Yakutat heavy snow cover; access limited.
Naknek River — January
Off-season. Gauge may show data (lake-regulated, less ice impact than freestone systems) but the fishery is closed for practical purposes.
Spearfish Creek — January
Midges (#20–24), small Nymphs; Zebra Midge, WD-40
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — January
Midges (#20–24), Scuds; tailwater reliability year-round
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — January
Midges (#20–24)
Spring Creek — January
Midges (#20–24)
Whitewood Creek — January
Midges (#20–24)
Castle Creek — January
Midges (#20–24)
Cumberland River Tailwater — January
Midges (#20–24, Zebra Midge, WD-40), Blue-Winged Olives (late month). Subsurface midge rigs all day.
Hatchery Creek — January
Midges (#20–24), Scuds, Sowbugs. Subsurface presentations most effective.
Green River Tailwater — January
Midges, small Soft Hackles. Quiet winter fishery — cold tailwater holds stocked fish.
Barren River Tailwater — January
Midges, Scuds. Quiet winter fishery — fish deep below the dam.
Rockcastle River — January
Midges, Wooly Buggers for bass in deeper pools. Quiet — small dries occasionally.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — January
Midges (#20–24), BWO. C&R season — light traffic, small dries on warm afternoons.
Rock Creek — January
Midges (#20–24). Quiet — winter fishing for the dedicated.
Truckee River — January
Midges (#20–24); Pyramid Lake cutthroat moving upriver Dec–Apr
East Walker River — January
Midges (#20–24), Scuds; winter streamer fishing for trophy browns
West Walker River — January
Midges (#20–24)
East Fork Carson River — January
Midges (#20–24)
Lamoille Creek — January
Midges (#20–24); winter access may be limited by snow
South Fork Humboldt River — January
Midges (#20–24)
Guadalupe River — January
Midges (#18–24, Zebra Midge, black/red/olive); RS2 emergers; San Juan Worms; Pheasant Tail Nymphs
Llano River — January
Wooly Buggers (olive/black), small Streamers; slower winter fishing
Blanco River — January
Wooly Buggers; carp: San Juan Worms, Mop Flies in deeper pools
Pedernales River — January
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; fish deeper runs and pools
Frio River — January
San Juan Worms; Wooly Buggers; small Streamers for occasional stocked trout near Leakey
South Llano River — January
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; deep runs for larger bass
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — January
Midges (#18–24, Zebra Midge, RS2); small Streamers in deep pools
Cahaba River — January
Wooly Buggers; small Streamers; deep pool fishing for bass
Little River Canyon — January
Wooly Buggers; small Streamers; deeper pool fishing
Tallapoosa River — January
Midges (#18–24); Wooly Buggers; Streamers; trout in tailwater pools
Paint Rock River — January
Wooly Buggers; small Streamers; deep pools for bass
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — January
Wooly Buggers; Streamers; deep pools for smallmouth
Blue River — January
Midges (#18–24, Zebra Midge, RS2); small Streamers; winter stocked rainbows
Mountain Fork River — January
Midges (#18–24, Zebra Midge, WD-40); small Streamers; winter tailwater fishing
Illinois River — January
Wooly Buggers; Clouser Minnows; deep pool fishing; bass dormant
Baron Fork — January
Wooly Buggers; Clouser Minnows; deep pools; bass dormant in cold water
Glover River — January
Wooly Buggers; deep pool fishing; flows often too low to float safely
Kiamichi River — January
Wooly Buggers; Streamers; deep pool fishing for catfish and largemouth
February Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — February
Midges remain primary. First Blue-Winged Olives (BWO) appear on cloudy overcast days (size 20-22). Watch for surface feeding around midday.
Arkansas River — February
Midges year-round. BWOs beginning on warm/overcast days (size 20-22). Salida stretch has consistent winter midge action.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — February
Midges continue (size 20-26). BWOs emerging on warm/overcast afternoons (size 20-22). Pueblo has a milder climate than mountain rivers — February is fishable when Front Range streams are frozen.
Blue River — February
Midges continue (size 22-26). BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Mysis shrimp always a fallback. Flows stable below Dillon Dam — the Blue fishes when every other Summit County water is iced over.
Bear Creek — February
Midges continue. Stream waking up on warm days. BWOs possible on overcast afternoons (size 20-22). Small water, small flies, light tippet.
Colorado River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on warm/cloudy days (size 20-22). Kremmling corridor has consistent winter midge action.
Frying Pan River — February
Midges primary (size 20-26). BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Large rainbows require 6X tippet and precise drifts. The Pan fishes when every other river is iced up.
Roaring Fork River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on warm/overcast days (size 20-22). Basalt section most reliable access in February. Upper Fork near Aspen can be iced over.
Cache la Poudre River — February
Midges continue. BWOs picking up on warm/cloudy days (size 20-22). The Poudre fishes when mountain rivers are locked up — a key Front Range winter option for Fort Collins anglers.
Taylor River — February
Midges (size 22-28) dominant. Reservoir keeps flows stable and temperatures consistent. One of Colorado's top winter tailwaters — fish are numerous and large. 6X tippet required.
Gunnison River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on warm/overcast days (size 20-22). Gunnison holds trophy-sized fish year-round but access requires planning. Gorge trails may be icy.
Eagle River — February
Midges continue. BWOs beginning on mild/cloudy days (size 20-22). Eagle sees heavy pressure near Vail/Avon but far less downstream toward Gypsum. February is a good time to explore lower sections.
Yampa River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on mild/overcast days (size 20-22). Lower Yampa near Craig sees less pressure than Steamboat and can produce well in late winter.
Rio Grande — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on warm/sunny afternoons (size 20-22). South Fork section near Wagon Wheel Gap has better winter access than upper Creede reach. Worth the long drive if conditions cooperate.
Crystal River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on warm/cloudy days (size 20-22). Crystal fishes well in February when accessible. Carbondale section most reliable winter access.
Dolores River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). McPhee tailwater is one of Southwest Colorado's best winter fisheries. Cortez/Dolores area accessible when northern rivers are frozen.
North Platte River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on rare mild/overcast days. North Park begins warming in late February but remains cold. The Walden meadows are most accessible in winter. Northgate Canyon too remote for most in February.
Slate River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on sunny afternoons (size 20-22). Slate River Rd improves in late February. Small stream patience required — fish spook easily in cold clear water.
San Juan River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on warm afternoons (size 20-22). Pagosa Springs is accessible year-round — the West Fork section above town remains fishable in mild winters.
Animas River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on mild/overcast days (size 20-22). Durango's mild La Plata County climate makes February fishing more comfortable than northern Colorado. Gold Medal section accessible year-round.
East River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on sunny afternoons (size 20-22). Lower sections near Almont and CB South more accessible than upper Gothic reach in February.
Fraser River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on mild overcast days (size 20-22). Fraser Valley warms slightly. Pre-runoff fishing can be good in late February if Moffat diversion is running low.
Dream Stream — February
Midges continue (size 22-26). BWOs possible on mild overcast days (size 20-22). South Park's cold, arid climate means February is challenging but uncrowded. Long leaders essential on flat meadow water — fish can see you from 40 feet.
Gore Creek — February
Midges continue (size 22-26). BWOs possible on warm/overcast afternoons (size 20-22). February on Gore Creek is lightly fished — resort town is focused on the mountain, not the stream. Enjoy the solitude.
Cheesman Canyon — February
Midges continue (size 22-26). BWOs possible on warm afternoons (size 20-22). February on Cheesman Canyon: quality fish, zero competition. Clear water demands 7X tippet even in cold conditions.
Williams Fork River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Williams Fork in February: reliable fishing in Grand County while everyone else is at the Blue River or Frying Pan. Verify current access maps.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Streamer fishing productive in winter flows. Float fishing not common in February but the wade access at Pumphouse can be productive on mild days.
Conejos River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on mild afternoons (size 20-22). February on the Conejos is virtually unpressured. Wild cutthroat in their stronghold. Platoro area may require chains or AWD for upper access.
San Miguel River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on mild days. Telluride ski season means the upper river sees zero fishing pressure. Lower Norwood section most accessible. Mountain roads — check conditions.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on mild/overcast days (size 20-22). Lake Fork in February: cold, remote, and surprisingly productive for the dedicated angler who makes the 3+ hour drive from Denver.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — February
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Streamer fishing peak — pre-spawn rainbows aggressive. The Reef is one of the few WY rivers fishing well in February. Mysis-like leech patterns deadly.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — February
Midges (size 20-24). Streamer fishing peak — pre-spawn rainbows aggressive. Big fish month if you can handle the cold and exposure of the high desert canyon.
Snake River — February
Mostly closed conditions — snow and ice. Some lower river access possible on mild days with midges. Plan for late spring through fall on the Snake.
Green River — Fontenelle — February
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Tailwater consistency while surrounding freestones are locked up.
Shoshone River — February
Midges continue (size 22-24). BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Lower Shoshone near Cody most accessible. Limited but fishable.
Bighorn River — February
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days. Tailwater advantage — fishing well while WY freestones are iced over. Big fish month.
Laramie River — February
Midges continue (size 22-24). BWOs possible on overcast days. Most of the Laramie remains iced. Limited but possible.
New Fork River — February
Mostly iced over. Limited access. Plan for spring opener. Midges possible in lowest sections on warmest days.
Hoback River — February
Mostly closed conditions. Wait for spring. Some midge fishing possible in lower river on rare mild days.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — February
Midges (size 22-24) in deeper canyon pools on warm afternoons. Most stretches iced or snow-blocked. Limited winter opportunities.
Salt River — February
Mostly iced — meadow stretches freeze hard. Spring-fed seeps may produce limited midge fishing. Plan for late spring opener.
Green River — February
Midges (size 18-22) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Tailwater advantage — fishable while every other UT river is iced over. Selective fish, 6X tippet required. Big-fish month for streamer anglers.
Provo River (Middle) — February
Midges (size 20-26) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Tailwater advantage — fishable while Wasatch freestones freeze. The serious winter Middle Provo angler's month.
Weber River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days. BWOs possible on overcast afternoons (size 20-22). Tailwater section below Echo most reliable. Pre-Mother's Day Caddis tying season.
Ogden River — February
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Tailwater consistency — fishable while area freestones ice over. Hatchery-supplemented; stockers respond to bright attractor patterns.
Strawberry River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days in deeper pools. Most of the WMA reach iced or snow-blocked. The serious Strawberry angler's off-season — tie hoppers and Green Drake patterns.
Logan River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days. Most upper canyon iced. Brown trout in deeper pools active on streamers. Plan for late April opener for the canyon.
Bear River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days. Most of the river iced or snow-affected. Plan for late spring opener.
Beaver River — February
Mostly iced. Limited winter activity. Plan for the summer trophy trout window once flows settle.
Fremont River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days. Most stretches iced or low and clear. Plan for late spring opener.
East Fork Sevier River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days. Most stretches iced. Plan for late spring opener once flows settle.
Oak Creek — February
Midges (size 20-24) continue. BWOs on overcast afternoons (size 20-22). Stocking continues in cool months. Crowds light midweek — peak Oak Creek fishing window is October through March.
West Fork Oak Creek — February
Midges continue (size 22-26). BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Spring-fed water keeps West Fork a reliable winter option. Trailhead can be icy — check road conditions before the drive.
East Fork Black River — February
Closed conditions — heavy snow at 8,000+ feet. Plan for May after roads dry.
West Fork Black River — February
Closed — heavy snow at 8,000+ feet. Wait for May/June.
North Fork White River — February
Mostly snowed in at elevation. Hon-Dah area access limited. Plan for May opener.
Canyon Creek — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days. Most stretches low and clear. Wild browns active in deeper pools on streamers.
Tonto Creek — February
Midges (size 20-24) continue. BWOs on overcast afternoons (size 20-22). Stocking continues in cool months. Quiet weekday fishing along SR-260 pullouts.
Silver Creek — February
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on overcast afternoons (size 20-22). C&R season — selective fish on tiny flies, fine tippet, careful presentations. AZ's closest analog to a classic spring creek.
East Clear Creek — February
Mostly snowed in. Approach roads not navigable. Plan for May/June.
Little Colorado River — February
Mostly iced. Limited winter activity. Plan for late spring opener.
Chevelon Creek — February
Closed conditions for most anglers. Wait for spring.
San Juan River — February
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 22-24). Pre-spawn rainbows aggressive — RESPECT REDDS in Quality Waters. Big fish month for streamer anglers.
Rio Grande — February
Midges continue (size 22-24). BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Lower canyon access most productive. Wind in the gorge can be brutal.
Rio Chama — February
Midges continue. BWOs on cloudy days (size 20-22). Tailwater consistency below El Vado — fishable while Rio Grande freezes in upper sections.
Cimarron River — February
Mostly iced — small stream freezes hard at canyon elevations. Midges in rare open pockets. Wait for spring.
Pecos River — February
Mostly iced in the wilderness sections. Lower river near Pecos village fishable on warm afternoons with midges. Plan for spring.
Brazos River — February
Closed conditions. Box canyon snowed in. Wait for the access road to open in late spring.
Red River — February
Mostly iced. Lower stretches near Questa fishable on warm days with midges. Plan for spring.
Jemez River — February
Midges continue (size 22-24). BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Lower river near Jemez Springs most accessible — geothermal influence keeps some sections open.
Gila River — February
Midges continue (size 20-24). BWOs picking up on cloudy days (size 20-22) — warmer winters than northern NM mean earlier hatches. Lightly pressured this time of year.
Henry's Fork — February
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Spring sections fishable while most ID rivers are iced. The serious winter Henry's Fork angler's month.
South Fork Snake River — February
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Tailwater advantage — fishable while Snake and Henry's Fork freeze. Pre-spawn rainbows aggressive.
Silver Creek — February
CLOSED through Memorial Day weekend. The Nature Conservancy preserve is off-limits for fishing during the winter closure.
Big Wood River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days in lower river. Most upper sections still iced. Plan for spring through fall on the Big Wood.
South Fork Boise River — February
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days. Tailwater consistency while ID freestones are iced over. Big fish month for streamer anglers.
Salmon River — February
Steelhead in lower river continuing (where seasons allow). Most upper Salmon iced. Cold and remote — for dedicated steelheaders only.
Clearwater River — February
B-run steelhead season continues. Some of the largest steelhead in the lower 48 — fish 12-20+ pounds possible. Cold but the prize is worth it. Bait and tackle rules vary by section.
Lochsa River — February
Most stretches closed. Plan for the summer season. Lochsa cutthroat fishing is a summer/fall pursuit.
Teton River — February
Mostly iced — meadow stretches freeze hard. Very limited winter fishing. Plan for late spring opener.
Fall River — February
Mostly iced. Limited fishing in lower river near Ashton. Plan for late spring opener.
St. Joe River — February
Most stretches closed. Limited winter opportunities. Plan for the summer cutthroat season.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — February
Steelhead season continues in open stretches. Big winter B-run fish. Cold but the prize is worth it.
Selway River — February
Most stretches closed. Plan for the summer season. Selway cutthroat fishing is a summer/fall pursuit.
Boise River — February
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Tailwater consistency below Lucky Peak Dam — fishable while every other Boise-area water is iced over.
Madison River — February
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Lower Madison fishable while upper sections ice. Big-fish month for streamer anglers.
Missouri River — February
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Tailwater stays open while every other MT freestone is iced. Cluster midges and tiny emergers — 6X tippet required.
Yellowstone River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warm afternoons in lower river. Most upper Paradise Valley iced. Wait for spring on the Yellowstone.
Big Hole River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days in lower river. Most of the Big Hole iced. Plan for the May–June Salmonfly window.
Bitterroot River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible (size 20-22) on overcast days late month. SKWALA WATCH starting — stoneflies usually emerge mid-March. Tie up your Skwala patterns now.
Clark Fork River — February
Midges continue. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22) in the lower river. Streamer fishing for trophy browns through the Missoula corridor.
Blackfoot River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days in lower river. Most upper Blackfoot iced. Plan for May–June Salmonfly window.
Gallatin River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days in lower river. Most of the Gallatin Canyon iced. Plan for late spring opener.
Flathead River — February
Mostly iced. Limited winter opportunities. Plan for the late June post-runoff opener.
Smith River — February
PERMIT LOTTERY DEADLINE — apply by mid-February for the Camp Baker to Eden Bridge float lottery. Without a permit you cannot float the canyon. Tie flies for the May–June Salmonfly window if you draw.
Rock Creek — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days in lower river. Most of Rock Creek iced. Plan for the legendary May–June Salmonfly window.
Stillwater River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days in lower river. Most of the Stillwater iced. Plan for late June after runoff.
Boulder River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days in lower river. Most of the Boulder iced. Plan for late June after runoff.
Sun River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days below the dam. Most of the Sun iced through Augusta. Limited winter opportunities.
Ruby River — February
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days below the reservoir. Most of the Ruby iced. Plan for late spring opener.
Rapidan River — February
Midges primary (size 20-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Brookies slowly waking up. Tight rhododendron casting in low water — keep it simple.
South River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) picking up on cloudy days. VDWR winter stocking schedule active — check stocking dates for fresh fish.
Jackson River — February
Midges primary. BWOs (size 20-22) building on cloudy days. Tailwater advantage — most consistent winter trout fishing in Virginia.
North Fork Shenandoah River — February
Stocked rainbows in select sections. Midges (size 20-24). BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. VDWR delayed-harvest sections active.
Bullpasture River — February
Midges (size 20-24). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Cold limestone water — fish move only on warmer days.
Maury River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Stream waking up on warmer days — fish slow with deep nymphs.
Rose River — February
Midges (size 22-26) on warmer afternoons. BWOs (size 20-22) possible on cloudy days. Brookies slowly waking up.
Conway River — February
Midges (size 22-26) on warmer days. BWOs (size 20-22) possible. Hike in only — winter access difficult.
Passage Creek — February
Midges (size 20-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Limestone influence keeps water clearer than most VA freestones — fish slow with deep nymphs.
Davidson River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) building on cloudy days. Stocked fish in DH sections respond to small Pheasant Tails and Zebra Midges.
Watauga River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) building. NCWRC stocking active in HS sections. Fish slow with nymphs in deeper water.
Nantahala River — February
Midges primary. BWOs (size 20-22) building. Whitewater season hasn't started — quiet gorge for trout fishing. Fish before late-spring rafting starts.
New River (North Carolina) — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on warmer cloudy days. Headwater brookie pools holding fish in deep slow water.
Oconaluftee River — February
Midges continue (size 22-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on warmer cloudy days. Wild rainbows, browns, and brookies tucked into pools — slow nymph rigs.
French Broad River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Land of Waterfalls country — many small tributaries feed clear cold water in winter.
Cataloochee Creek — February
Midges (size 22-26) on warmer afternoons. BWOs (size 20-22) possible on cloudy days. Native brookies slowly waking up.
Linville River — February
Midges (size 20-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Stream waking up slowly — fish slow with deep nymphs in pools.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — February
Midges primary. BWOs (size 20-22) building. Cold consistent flows make Watauga TN reliable when most southeastern waters are tough.
Little River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on warmer cloudy days. Wild brookies, browns, and rainbows tucked into pools — slow nymph rigs.
Tellico River — February
Midges (size 20-26) on warmer afternoons. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Stream slowly waking up — fish slow with deep nymphs.
Cranberry River — February
Midges (size 22-26) on warmer afternoons. BWOs (size 20-22) possible on cloudy days. Wild brookies and stocked rainbows tucked into deep pools.
South Branch Potomac River — February
Midges (size 20-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Limestone clarity even in winter — fish slow with deep nymph rigs.
Elk River — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on warmer cloudy days. Stream waking up slowly — fish slow with deep nymphs.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — February
Midges (size 22-26) on warmer afternoons. BWOs (size 20-22) possible on cloudy days. Wild brookies slowly waking up — fish slow with deep nymphs.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — February
Midges (size 20-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Limestone clarity even in winter — fish slow with deep nymph rigs.
Williams River — February
Midges (size 22-26) on warmer afternoons. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Wild brookies and rainbows slowly waking up — fish slow.
Greenbrier River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Limestone clarity even in winter — fish slow with deep nymph rigs.
Beaverkill River — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 18-20) on cloudy/warm afternoons. Wild browns in deep pools — slow deep nymphs.
Willowemoc Creek — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 18-20) on cloudy/warm afternoons. Wild trout in deep pools — slow deep nymphs.
East Branch Delaware River — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Tailwater fertility keeps fish feeding even in winter. Stable dam-controlled flows.
West Branch Delaware River — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Tailwater fertility keeps fish feeding. Largest browns of the system hold here.
Esopus Creek — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild trout slowly waking in upper reaches.
Schoharie Creek — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild trout deep in pools.
Neversink River — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild browns slowly waking.
Rondout Creek — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Small water, small flies.
Ausable River (East Branch) — February
Midges (size 22-26). Wild trout deep in pools — limited winter activity in High Peaks country.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — February
Midges (size 22-26). Wild trout deep in pools. Lake-run fish absent in winter.
Saranac River — February
Midges (size 22-26). Wild trout deep in upper river pools. Lower river lake-run fish dormant.
Raquette River — February
Midges (size 22-26). Wild trout deep in pools — limited winter activity at high elevation.
Black River (upper) — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild trout deep in pools.
Penns Creek — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Limestone temperature stability keeps wild trout active when freestone Catskills are locked up.
Spring Creek — February
BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Midges. Limestone fertility keeps wild trout actively feeding through winter. Technical 6X-7X fishing.
Big Fishing Creek — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Lamar gauge captures upper fishing sections.
Little Juniata River — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Limestone-influenced freestone keeps fish active.
Yellow Breeches Creek — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Limestone fertility keeps wild and stocked trout feeding through winter.
Tulpehocken Creek — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Tailwater fertility keeps stocked rainbows and holdover browns feeding.
Brodhead Creek — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild trout deep in pools — slow deep nymphs.
Bushkill Creek — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild trout in deep pools.
Loyalsock Creek — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild browns deep in pools.
Pine Creek — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild trout deep in canyon pools.
Kettle Creek — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild browns and brookies deep in pools.
Young Womans Creek — February
Limited winter activity in this backcountry stream. Plan for spring.
Battenkill River — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild trout slow but feeding. 6X tippet territory.
White River — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild and stocked trout deep in pools.
Mad River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when fishable. Wild browns and brookies deep in pools — limited mid-winter activity.
Lamoille River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when fishable. Wild and stocked trout deep in pools. Lake-run rainbows absent in winter.
Winooski River — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild and stocked trout deep in pools.
Dog River — February
Limited winter activity on this tight, wooded corridor. Plan for spring.
Black River — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild and stocked trout deep in pools.
West River — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Tailwater fertility keeps wild browns feeding even in winter.
Williams River — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Wild and stocked trout deep in pools.
Missisquoi River — February
Limited winter activity in this remote North Troy water. Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
West Branch Penobscot — February
Cold and iced over. Plan for ice-out in April.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — February
Iced over — winter dormant.
Kennebec River – The Forks — February
Winter dormant — Harris Station releases minimal. Midges if open.
Dead River — February
Winter dormant — Long Falls releases minimal.
Sandy River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible. Wild trout deep in pools.
Carrabassett River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible. Wild brookies in upper reaches dormant.
Magalloway River — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Tailwater fertility keeps some fish feeding.
Narraguagus River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible. Resident brookies deep in pools.
Rapid River — February
Iced over and remote. Inaccessible.
Roach River — February
Iced over.
Kennebago River — February
Iced over.
Ellis River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Swift River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Saco River — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days.
Androscoggin River — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Wild trout deep in big-river seams.
Pemigewasset River — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days.
Wild River — February
Iced over.
Ammonoosuc River — February
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — February
Midges. BWOs (size 20-22). Trophy browns feeding in deep tailwater seams. Tailwater fertility keeps fish active.
Smith River — February
Midges (size 22-26).
Cold River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Deerfield River — February
Midges and BWOs (size 20-22). Cold tailwater stays fishable when releases moderate. Watch the FirstLight schedule.
Swift River — February
Midges peak. BWOs (size 22) on overcast days. Cold gin-clear water — long leaders, light tippets, technical fishing.
Westfield River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible. Wild trout deep in pools.
West Branch Westfield River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
East Branch Westfield River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible. Wild trout deep in gorge pools.
Millers River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Squannacook River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Nissitissit River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Cold River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible. Native brookies deep.
Farmington River (MA Section) — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Ware River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Farmington River — February
Midges peak. BWOs on overcast days. Cold gin-clear tailwater fishes well between releases.
Housatonic River — February
Midges and BWOs (size 20-22). Cold-water nymphing for selective Hous browns.
Salmon River — February
Midges and BWOs (size 20-22). Cold tailwater nymphing.
Willimantic River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Natchaug River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Shepaug River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Mad River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Bantam River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Blackledge River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Jeremy River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Still River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Gunpowder Falls — February
Midges peak. BWOs on overcast days. Long leaders, 6X-7X tippet, technical fishing for selective browns.
Little Gunpowder Falls — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Big Hunting Creek — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible. Wild brookies and browns deep in pools.
Savage River — February
Midges peak. BWOs (size 22) on cloudy days. Cold tailwater nymphing for big wild browns.
North Branch Potomac River — February
Midges and BWOs. Cold tailwater nymphing for wild browns.
Youghiogheny River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Casselman River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Antietam Creek — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Catoctin Creek — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Patuxent River — February
Midges and BWOs. Cold tailwater nymphing.
Monocacy River — February
Warmwater river — limited trout activity.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Musconetcong River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible. Spring seeps keep some pockets active.
Big Flat Brook — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Pequest River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Paulinskill River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Rockaway River — February
Midges and BWOs. Tailwater nymphing.
Ramapo River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Wanaque River — February
Midges and BWOs. Cold tailwater nymphing for browns.
Black River (Lamington River) — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Pequannock River — February
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible.
Deschutes River — February
SKWALA STONEFLY (size 8-10) starting late month — early-season dry-fly window. Midges and BWOs. Wild redsides active on warm afternoons.
McKenzie River — February
BWOs strong on cloudy days (size 18-20). Midges. March Browns starting late month (size 12-14).
Metolius River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Bull trout follow streamers in deep runs.
North Umpqua River — February
Winter steelhead. BWOs (size 18-20) starting. Pre-spring trout window beginning.
Rogue River — February
Winter steelhead continuing. BWOs starting. Pre-spring trout window beginning above Lost Creek.
Williamson River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Big browns active in deep runs.
Crooked River — February
Midges continue. BWOs picking up. Reliable cold-weather fishing in the canyon.
Fall River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22). Big browns active in winter — slow technical fishing.
Sandy River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak. Sea-run cutthroat ("harvest trout") starting late month. BWOs.
Clackamas River — February
Winter steelhead. Sea-run cutthroat starting. BWOs (size 20-22).
Grande Ronde River — February
BWOs starting (size 20-22). Midges. Pre-spring trout window beginning.
Wallowa River — February
BWOs starting (size 20-22). Midges. Pre-spring window beginning.
John Day River — February
BWOs starting (size 20-22). Midges. Pre-spring window beginning.
Sprague River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22). Big browns active in deep runs.
Wood River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22). Selective trout in slow flows.
Hosmer Lake — February
Lake frozen. Plan for late spring through fall.
Yakima River — February
SKWALA STONEFLY (size 8-10) beginning late month — Yakima's world-famous early hatch. Midges and BWOs continuing. Pre-runoff dry-fly window opening.
Wenatchee River — February
BWOs starting (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Midges. Pre-spring window beginning.
Methow River — February
BWOs starting (size 20-22). Midges. Pre-spring trout window beginning.
Skagit River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak — best month for swung-fly fishing on the legendary Skagit. Bull trout follow streamers in deep runs.
Skykomish River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak. Sea-run cutthroat starting late month. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days.
Stillaguamish River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak. Sea-run cutthroat starting late month. Closures common to protect wild fish — check WDFW.
Sauk River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak — best month for two-handed rods on the Sauk. Bull trout follow streamers.
Hoh River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak — best month for the Hoh's legendary wild winter run. Heavy rain and high water common.
Bogachiel River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak. Heavy rain and high water common. Sea-run cutthroat starting late month.
Queets River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak. Pristine wilderness setting. Float trips dominate — limited road access.
Sol Duc River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak. Heavy rain common. Sea-run cutthroat starting late month.
Snoqualmie River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD continuing. Sea-run cutthroat. BWOs on cloudy days.
Spokane River — February
Midges continue. BWOs starting. Pre-spring window beginning.
Little Spokane River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22). Brown trout active in deep runs.
Naches River — February
BWOs starting (size 20-22). Midges. Pre-spring trout window beginning.
Tucannon River — February
BWOs starting (size 20-22). Midges. Pre-spring trout window beginning.
Hat Creek — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Spring-creek style fishing — long leaders, drag-free drifts.
Fall River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Selective wild rainbows in weedy flats.
Pit River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days starting. Tailwater advantage when other rivers run cold.
McCloud River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Wild McCloud strain — the source of most hatchery rainbows worldwide.
Upper Sacramento River — February
SKWALA STONEFLY (size 8-10) at peak — early-season big-bug dry-fly fishing. Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on cloudy days.
Trinity River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD continues. BWOs (size 20-22) starting for resident trout. Midges. Lewiston tailwater fishes year-round.
Klamath River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD continues. BWOs (size 20-22) starting. Post-dam removal — the river is changing rapidly.
Feather River Low Flow Channel — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days starting.
Truckee River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Pre-spring window — selective wild trout active.
Little Truckee River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Long leaders, fine tippet for technical fish.
East Walker River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Sage-desert tailwater fishes year-round.
West Walker River — February
Cold mountain water. Midges. BWOs possible on warmer afternoons.
Lee Vining Creek — February
Cold mountain water — most access roads closed. Watch for spring opening.
Owens River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Spring-creek style fishing in the meadow flats.
Hot Creek — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast days. Long leaders, 6X tippet, drag-free drifts essential.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — February
Cold canyon water — most access closed. Heavy snowpack.
Kings River — February
Cold mountain water — road closures. Heavy snowpack in the canyons.
Kern River — February
Cold canyon water. Limited winter fishing in the lower Kernville reach. Backcountry inaccessible.
Russian River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD continues. Watch flows — heavy winter rains can blow out the river. Best fishing on the descending side of high water.
Au Sable River — February
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season for the Au Sable.
Au Sable North Branch — February
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Au Sable South Branch — February
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Pere Marquette River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak. Cold water, slow fish — dead-drift nymphs through deep runs. Verify open sections; trout-water reach is closed but designated steelhead water remains open year-round.
Manistee River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD continues. Cold water, slow presentations. Tippy tailwater holds fish through the coldest months.
Muskegon River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD continues. Tailwater advantage — flows stay stable when freestone rivers freeze.
Jordan River — February
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Boardman River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD continues. Watch flows — newly free-flowing river still finding its channel.
Betsie River — February
WINTER STEELHEAD continues. Slow cold-water swings and dead-drift nymphing.
Pine River — February
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Pigeon River — February
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Sturgeon River — February
Closed to trout fishing. Steelhead in lower reaches.
Black River — February
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Two-Hearted River — February
Closed to trout fishing. Heavy snow in the UP.
Fox River — February
Closed to trout fishing. UP winter.
Timber Coulee Creek — February
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season — early-season catch-and-release window opens in some Driftless waters in March; verify current WDNR rules.
West Fork Kickapoo River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Kickapoo River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Black Earth Creek — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Mt. Vernon Creek — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Elk Creek — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Blue River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Seas Branch — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Tomorrow River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Wolf River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Bois Brule River — February
Mostly closed. Verify section-by-section regulations. Mays Ledges still closed.
Namekagon River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
White River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Prairie River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Oconto River — February
Mostly closed for trout. Lower-river steelhead access on open sections.
Root River — February
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
South Branch Root River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
North Branch Root River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Whitewater River — February
Year-round C&R inside park. Midges. Limestone spring-fed flows stable through winter.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
North Fork Whitewater River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Trout Run Creek — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Rush Creek — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Straight River — February
Closed to trout fishing.
Knife River — February
Mostly closed. Lower-river steelhead access on open sections.
Baptism River — February
Mostly closed. Lower-river access on open sections.
Cascade River — February
Mostly closed. Lower-river access on open sections.
Temperance River — February
Mostly closed. Lower-river access on open sections.
Brule River — February
Mostly closed. Lower-river access on open sections.
Poplar River — February
Mostly closed. Lower-river access on open sections.
Upper Iowa River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Limestone-influenced flows stay cold and clear.
Yellow River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Spring-influenced flows hold up.
Volga River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons.
Turkey River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons.
Bloody Run Creek — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Spring-creek temps stable. C&R / artificials only.
Paint Creek — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons.
Bear Creek — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Spring-creek temps stable.
North Fork Maquoketa River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons.
Waterloo Creek — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. C&R / artificials only in posted sections. No live CFS data.
French Creek — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons.
Village Creek — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons.
White River — February
Midges (size 20-24) dominate. EMERGENCY REGS in effect — 2 rainbow trout under 14" only, all other species release immediately. Scuds productive in deeper runs.
North Fork River — February
Midges (size 20-24) dominate. EMERGENCY REGS in effect — 2 rainbow trout under 14" only, all other species release immediately. Scuds productive.
Little Red River — February
Midges (size 20-24) dominate. EMERGENCY REGS in effect — 2 trout any species, any over 14" release immediately. Scuds productive. Read the gauge before driving — CFS swings 200 to 5,000+ within hours.
Spring River — February
Midges (size 20-24) dominate. Constant 58°F spring water keeps fish active through winter. Scuds productive.
Crooked Creek — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Scuds.
Chagrin River — February
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, nymphs, streamers. Midges for any resident trout in the upper river.
Grand River — February
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, nymphs, streamers. Watch the temperature/DO data on the super gauge for warming windows.
Rocky River — February
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, nymphs, streamers. Urban-accessible winter fishing.
Vermilion River — February
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, nymphs, streamers. Read the gauge — can run very low.
Conneaut Creek — February
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, nymphs, streamers.
Cuyahoga River — February
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, nymphs, streamers. NPS regs apply.
Ashtabula River — February
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, nymphs, streamers. Spikes and drops fast after rain.
Mad River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Wild and stocked browns active in cold spring water.
Big Darby Creek — February
Cold-season smallmouth. Slow, deep presentations if you fish.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Holdover trout active in cold water.
Current River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Streamers for browns. Cold spring-fed water keeps fish active.
Jacks Fork River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Streamers for browns.
Eleven Point River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Streamers for wild browns.
North Fork of White River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Streamers for browns. Spring-fed flow stays remarkably constant.
Huzzah Creek — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Stocked trout active.
Gasconade River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Stocked trout in upper reach.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — February
Midges continue (size 22-26). First BWOs possible on overcast afternoons (size 20-22). Stocked fish active in the headwaters near Helen.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Wild fish in the Wild & Scenic headwaters become opportunistic.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Tate Branch and Coleman River tributaries fishing well in cold months.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Artificial lures only Nov 1 – last Saturday in March in the upper watershed.
Soque River — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Cold, productive Blue Ridge water keeps fish active.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — February
Midges continue. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Streamer fishing on aggressive tailwater browns in the 14-mile run from the dam to the TN border.
Kenai River — February
River frozen on edges. Off-season for the trout fishery. ⚠️ 2026 King salmon FULL CLOSURE. Plan trips for late spring through October.
Russian River — February
Off-season. River frozen. Plan for sockeye-fishing window (June 11 – Aug 20).
Anchor River — February
Off-season. Frozen. Steelhead start late August.
Gulkana River — February
Off-season. Frozen. Float trips begin in June.
Situk River — February
Late winter steelhead. Cold, snowy, demanding access.
Naknek River — February
Off-season. Plan for June king run or August–October trophy rainbow window.
Spearfish Creek — February
Midges, early BWO (#18–20)
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — February
Midges, BWO (#20)
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — February
Midges, small Nymphs
Spring Creek — February
Midges, early BWO
Whitewood Creek — February
Midges, small Nymphs
Castle Creek — February
Midges, BWO
Cumberland River Tailwater — February
Midges, Blue-Winged Olives. Peak BWO action starts on cloudy afternoons.
Hatchery Creek — February
Midges (#20–24), Scuds, Sowbugs. Subsurface presentations most effective.
Green River Tailwater — February
Midges, small Soft Hackles. Pre-stocking lull; subsurface only.
Barren River Tailwater — February
Midges, Scuds. Pre-stocking; subsurface only.
Rockcastle River — February
Midges, Wooly Buggers for bass in deeper pools. Pre-spring.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — February
Midges (#20–24), BWO. C&R section fishes well; expect solitude.
Rock Creek — February
Midges, early BWO. Stream waking up on warm afternoons.
Truckee River — February
Midges, BWO (#18–20); peak cutthroat run timing
East Walker River — February
Midges, BWO (#18–20)
West Walker River — February
Midges, BWO
East Fork Carson River — February
Midges, BWO
Lamoille Creek — February
Midges; snow can close canyon road
South Fork Humboldt River — February
Midges, BWO
Guadalupe River — February
Midges dominate; Zebra Midge, WD-40; occasional BWO (#18–20) on cloudy days
Llano River — February
Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; bass begin stirring
Blanco River — February
Clouser Minnows; Crayfish patterns; carp patterns
Pedernales River — February
Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; bass begin moving
Frio River — February
Wooly Buggers; Nymphs; trout stocking window ends
South Llano River — February
Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — February
Midges dominate (Zebra Midge, WD-40); occasional BWO on cloudy days
Cahaba River — February
Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; Crayfish patterns; bass slow
Little River Canyon — February
Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; Crayfish patterns; bass slow
Tallapoosa River — February
Midges; small Streamers; bass slow; trout best in tailwater
Paint Rock River — February
Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; Crayfish patterns; bass slow
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — February
Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; Crayfish patterns; bass slow
Blue River — February
Midges dominate; occasional BWO on cloudy days; Wooly Buggers in pools
Mountain Fork River — February
Midges dominate; BWO on cloudy days; San Juan Worms; cold-water trout active
Illinois River — February
Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; Crayfish patterns; pre-spawn cruisers in slow water
Baron Fork — February
Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; Crayfish patterns; bass slow
Glover River — February
Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; Crayfish; check flows before driving in
Kiamichi River — February
Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; Crayfish patterns; bass slow
March Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — March
BWOs picking up strongly on overcast days (size 18-22). Midges still active. Best action 10am-2pm during hatches. Parachute BWO or Sparkle Dun.
Arkansas River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window can be excellent if flows stable. Check gauge before driving — runoff starts in late March some years.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-caddis window. Reservoir regulation means flows stay consistent regardless of snowmelt upstream. March is excellent on the Pueblo tailwater.
Blue River — March
BWOs starting on cloudy days (size 20-22). Midges year-round. Mysis imitations remain effective. Reservoir regulation means consistent flows regardless of upstream snowpack.
Bear Creek — March
BWOs beginning (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window can be excellent on this beginner-accessible stream near Denver.
Colorado River — March
BWOs starting (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window — catch it before snowmelt starts. Big water, big fish, requires wading caution.
Frying Pan River — March
BWOs picking up strongly on cloudy days (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Ruedi Reservoir regulation means consistent flows regardless of snowpack — catch the pre-runoff window.
Roaring Fork River — March
BWOs picking up on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff March window can be outstanding on the Basalt section — catch it before snowmelt begins.
Cache la Poudre River — March
BWOs strong on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window can be excellent — March on the Poudre before snowmelt is often overlooked and very productive.
Taylor River — March
Midges year-round. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Taylor Park is still cold in March — dress for mountain winter. Consistent flows regardless of upstream snowpack.
Gunnison River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window — Black Canyon access from East Portal opens as weather improves. March can be excellent before runoff builds.
Eagle River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff March window is often excellent. Vail Pass snowpack will push flows in weeks — catch the Eagle before it rises.
Yampa River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff fishing can be excellent in March. Yampa Valley warming up — catch it before Flattops and Rabbit Ears snowmelt arrives.
Rio Grande — March
BWOs starting (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window can be outstanding in the upper Gold Medal section. March Rio Grande is seriously underutilized.
Crystal River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window on this smaller stream. March can be excellent for clear-water nymphing before Elk Mountain snowmelt starts.
Dolores River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Tailwater stability makes March excellent. Pre-runoff window while freestone rivers are still sketchy. An early-season gem.
North Platte River — March
BWOs starting (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window can be excellent — March on the North Platte headwaters is underutilized. Wild browns in North Park meadow stretches feeding actively.
Slate River — March
BWOs picking up on cloudy days (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window brief but productive. Catch the Slate before Elk Mountain snowmelt starts — March can be excellent.
San Juan River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window excellent through Pagosa Riverwalk access. March San Juan is an underutilized gem in Southwest Colorado.
Animas River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window excellent — March Animas before San Juan snowmelt is outstanding. Gold Medal stretch through Durango at its most manageable.
East River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window brief but excellent. East River has excellent wild cutthroat that respond aggressively in March before snowmelt.
Fraser River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window — catch the Fraser before Winter Park and Berthoud Pass snowmelt starts. March is often the best month before runoff.
Dream Stream — March
BWOs picking up on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges active. March pre-runoff window can be excellent — catch the Dream Stream before South Park snowmelt begins. 12-14 ft leaders and 6X minimum.
Gore Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff March window can be excellent — catch Gore Creek before Vail Pass and Ten Mile Range snowmelt begins building flows.
Cheesman Canyon — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window — Cheesman Canyon in March before South Park snowmelt is exceptional. The hike is worth it. 6-7X tippet, precise presentations required.
Williams Fork River — March
BWOs picking up (size 20-22). Midges active. Pre-runoff window — access may still be limited by road conditions. Williams Fork tailwater stays fishable while surrounding drainages begin building.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — March
BWOs starting (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window — Pumphouse wade access at its best before spring flows build. Big river brown trout feeding. Plan floats soon before runoff makes it dangerous.
Conejos River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window — catch the Conejos before San Juan Mountains snowmelt begins. Wild Rio Grande Cutthroat feeding actively in March. Use barbless hooks.
San Miguel River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window. San Miguel Mountain snowmelt will arrive — catch the spring window before it builds. Upper Telluride section can be excellent in March.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window — catch the Lake Fork before Lake San Cristobal watershed snowmelt begins. Wild brown trout feeding actively in March.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — March
Midges year-round. First BWOs possible on overcast afternoons (size 20-22). Pre-spawn rainbow run beginning — handle fish gently. Streamers continue producing.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — March
Midges year-round. BWOs possible on overcast afternoons (size 20-22). Pre-spawn rainbows in skinny water — respect spawning fish. Wind is the real challenge here.
Snake River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges (size 20-22). BWOs possible (size 20-22) on overcast days. Tetons still buried in snow.
Green River — Fontenelle — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Pre-runoff window — Fontenelle Reservoir buffers the upper Green from snowmelt. Excellent March fishing.
Shoshone River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Wind is constant in the Cody area.
Bighorn River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Pre-spawn rainbow run starting in lower river — RESPECT REDDS. Streamer fishing peak.
Laramie River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window short — Laramie watershed starts rising in April.
New Fork River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible (size 20-22). Wind Range still buried in snow.
Hoback River — March
Pre-runoff window — Hoback Range still snow-covered. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible on overcast days.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges. BWOs possible (size 20-22). Beartooth Plateau still deep in snow — access limited.
Salt River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible (size 20-22). Wyoming Range still snow-covered.
Green River — March
BWOs picking up strongly (size 18-20) on cloudy afternoons — best dry-fly window of early spring. Midges year-round. Pre-runoff irrelevant here; Bureau of Reclamation releases buffer everything. Crowds light before April.
Provo River (Middle) — March
BWOs picking up strongly (size 18-20) on cloudy afternoons — Middle Provo BWOs are heavy and well-known. Midges year-round. Pre-runoff irrelevant; Jordanelle releases buffer everything.
Weber River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Pre-runoff window — Echo Reservoir buffers the upper river but tributary inputs respond to snowmelt. Caddis pupae starting to mobilize.
Ogden River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Pre-runoff irrelevant — Pineview releases buffer everything. Salmonfly nymphs becoming active in the canyon.
Strawberry River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible (size 20-22). Snow access still limits the WMA reach. Fishery responds partially to natural runoff.
Logan River — March
Pre-runoff window opening. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Midges. Bear River Range still snow-covered — upper canyon access limited.
Bear River — March
Pre-runoff window opening. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Midges. Uinta and Bear Lake region snow-melt building.
Beaver River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible (size 20-22). Tushar Mountains still snow-covered — access limited.
Fremont River — March
Pre-runoff window opening. Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Boulder Mountain still snow-covered — access limited.
East Fork Sevier River — March
Pre-runoff window opening. Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Sevier Plateau snowmelt building.
Oak Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-runoff flows manageable. Caddis nymphs becoming active. Stocking schedule heaviest in spring — check azgfd.com.
West Fork Oak Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges year-round. Pre-runoff window opening. Selective wild brown and rainbow trout in the crystal-clear plunge pools — long leaders and 6X tippet.
East Fork Black River — March
Snow access still limits Forest Road 276. Pre-runoff window doesn't really apply here — White Mountains snowmelt is the dominant driver.
West Fork Black River — March
Snow access dominates. Backcountry roads not navigable. Plan for July onward.
North Fork White River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons in lower stretches. Tribal permit office in Whiteriver beginning to issue spring permits — check current dates.
Canyon Creek — March
Pre-runoff window opening. Midges. BWOs (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Mogollon Rim snowmelt building.
Tonto Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-runoff flows manageable. Caddis nymphs becoming active. Stocking schedule heaviest in spring.
Silver Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Last month of C&R season — quiet, technical winter fishing. Pre-spawn browns becoming aggressive on streamers.
East Clear Creek — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Mogollon Rim snowmelt building. Approach roads still snowbound or muddy in normal years.
Little Colorado River — March
Pre-runoff window opening. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible (size 20-22). White Mountains snowpack still building.
Chevelon Creek — March
Pre-runoff window opening. Approach roads still snowbound or muddy in normal years. Mogollon Rim snowmelt building.
San Juan River — March
Midges year-round. BWOs picking up (size 20-22) on cloudy afternoons. Rainbow spawn beginning — DO NOT WADE THROUGH GRAVEL. The Juan is one of NM's most reliable winter/early-spring fisheries.
Rio Grande — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges. Stoneflies (size 6-10) starting in lower canyon. Pre-runoff window opening — early spring is one of the best times on the Rio Grande.
Rio Chama — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Pre-runoff window opening — El Vado releases buffer the upper Chama. Excellent early spring fishing in the canyon.
Cimarron River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Stocking program ramps up.
Pecos River — March
Pre-runoff window opening. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible (size 20-22) on overcast afternoons. Sangre de Cristo snowpack still building.
Brazos River — March
Limited access — road still impassable in most years. Pre-runoff window doesn't really apply here, plan for July.
Red River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible (size 20-22) on overcast days. Stocking ramps up.
Jemez River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-runoff window opening early — Jemez at lower elevation than Sangre de Cristos so it warms first.
Gila River — March
BWOs (size 18-22) hitting their stride — Gila gets BWO action weeks ahead of higher NM rivers. Midges always. First Caddis possible late month on warm afternoons.
Henry's Fork — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22) on cloudy afternoons. Midges year-round. Pre-runoff window — Box Canyon and Last Chance prime before Memorial Day crowds arrive.
South Fork Snake River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Pre-spawn rainbow run starting — RESPECT REDDS. Streamer fishing peak for trophy browns.
Silver Creek — March
CLOSED through Memorial Day weekend. Use the closed months to tie tiny flies — you'll need 6X-7X tippet and #20-24 patterns when the season opens.
Big Wood River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Sun Valley still snowed in.
South Fork Boise River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Pre-runoff window — Anderson Ranch releases buffer the SF Boise from snowmelt. Excellent early spring fishing in the canyon.
Salmon River — March
Spring steelhead in lower river. Pre-runoff window opening in upper Salmon on warmer afternoons. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible (size 20-22).
Clearwater River — March
Steelhead season closing typically late month or early April. Final winter steelhead push. BWOs possible (size 20-22) on warm afternoons in lower river.
Lochsa River — March
Most stretches still closed. Upper river snowed in along Highway 12. Plan for late June after runoff.
Teton River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible (size 20-22). Teton Range still snow-covered.
Fall River — March
Pre-runoff window opening. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible (size 20-22). Yellowstone Plateau still snow-covered.
St. Joe River — March
Most stretches still closed. Upper river snowed in. Plan for Memorial Day weekend opener.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — March
Steelhead season typically closing late month or early April. Final winter steelhead opportunities. Resident trout BWOs (size 20-22) possible.
Selway River — March
Most stretches still closed. Upper Wild & Scenic corridor snowed in. Plan for late June after runoff.
Boise River — March
BWOs picking up strongly (size 18-20) on cloudy afternoons. Midges year-round. Lucky Peak releases keep flows stable — pre-runoff window doesn't really apply. Excellent early spring fishing in the heart of the city.
Madison River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Pre-runoff window opening — Three Dollar Bridge to Ennis productive on warmer afternoons. Crowds light before May.
Missouri River — March
BWOs picking up strongly (size 18-20) on cloudy afternoons. Midges year-round. Pre-runoff window — Holter Dam regulation buffers everything. Quiet, productive month before the spring crowds arrive.
Yellowstone River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20) on cloudy afternoons. Midges. Pre-runoff window opening on the lower river — short but productive before the Yellowstone Plateau snowmelt arrives.
Big Hole River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges (size 22-24). BWOs possible (size 20-22). Pioneer Mountains still buried in snow.
Bitterroot River — March
SKWALA STONEFLY (size 10-12) hatch at peak mid-to-late month — the Bitterroot's most famous hatch and the earliest big-bug fishing of the year in MT. BWOs (size 18-20). The local "secret" that draws anglers from across the West.
Clark Fork River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges. SKWALA stoneflies (size 10-12) starting mid-month — the Clark Fork shares the Bitterroot's iconic Skwala hatch. Pre-runoff window prime.
Blackfoot River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges. BWOs possible (size 20-22). Continental Divide still snow-covered.
Gallatin River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges. BWOs possible (size 20-22). Bridger and Madison ranges still snow-covered.
Flathead River — March
Most stretches still iced. North Fork along Glacier's western boundary still snow-blocked. Plan for late June–July prime time.
Smith River — March
Pre-season — no canyon access. Watch for FWP permit results. Limited fishing on lower river below Eden Bridge from public access points only.
Rock Creek — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges. BWOs possible (size 20-22). Sapphire and Anaconda-Pintler ranges still snow-covered.
Stillwater River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges. BWOs possible (size 20-22). Beartooth-Absaroka still buried in deep snow.
Boulder River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges. BWOs possible (size 20-22). Absaroka-Beartooth still snow-blocked.
Sun River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges. BWOs possible (size 20-22). Rocky Mountain Front still snow-covered.
Ruby River — March
Pre-runoff window opening on warmer afternoons. Midges. BWOs possible (size 20-22). Ruby Range still snow-covered.
Rapidan River — March
QUILL GORDON HATCH STARTING (size 14) — the signature early-season hatch in Shenandoah. Blue Quills (size 18). BWOs continuing. First major dry-fly window of the year.
South River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Midges. Quill Gordon (size 14) late month possible. First strong dry-fly window of the year. Stocked fish eager.
Jackson River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) strong on overcast days. Midges continue. Sulphurs possible late month in the lower river. First major dry-fly window.
North Fork Shenandoah River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Spring stocking active. Pre-runoff window — limestone influence keeps the NF clearer than most VA freestones.
Bullpasture River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Quill Gordon (size 14) late month. First major hatch window — wild trout eager to come up.
Maury River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Quill Gordon (size 14) late month — Maury's early-season signature. Pre-runoff dry-fly window opening.
Rose River — March
QUILL GORDON HATCH STARTING (size 14) — the iconic early hatch in Shenandoah NP. Blue Quill (size 18). First major brookie dry-fly window.
Conway River — March
Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month — the SNP signature hatch. Blue Quill (size 18). First brookie dry-fly window of the year.
Passage Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month. Pre-runoff dry-fly window — wild trout coming up between Massanutten ridges.
Davidson River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) strong on overcast days. Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month. Pre-runoff dry-fly window — Davidson trout coming up.
Watauga River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) strong. Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month. Spring stocking. First major dry-fly window of the year.
Nantahala River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) strong. Midges. Sulphurs (size 16-18) possible late month. Pre-rafting season window — peak winter trout fishing.
New River (North Carolina) — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Quill Gordon (size 14) late month in headwaters. First major dry-fly window — trout in headwaters active.
Oconaluftee River — March
GSMNP QUILL GORDON HATCH (size 14) starting late month — the signature early-season hatch in the Smokies. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs. First dry-fly window of the year.
French Broad River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month. Pre-runoff window in upper river — Pisgah feeders staying clear.
Cataloochee Creek — March
GSMNP QUILL GORDON HATCH (size 14) STARTING — Cataloochee's signature early hatch. Blue Quill (size 18). First major brookie dry-fly window of the year.
Linville River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month. Pre-runoff window — wild trout coming up to dries in the gorge.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — March
BWOs (size 18-20) strong. Midges. Sulphurs starting late month. Pre-runoff window unnecessary — tailwater stays consistent year-round.
Little River — March
SMOKIES QUILL GORDON HATCH (size 14) STARTING — the signature early hatch in GSMNP. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs. First major dry-fly window of the year.
Tellico River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month — Tellico's signature early hatch. Pre-stocking trip planning — opener approaches.
Cranberry River — March
Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month — Cranberry's signature early hatch. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs. Pre-stocking trip planning — opener approaches.
South Branch Potomac River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Hendrickson (size 14) starting late month. Pre-runoff window — limestone stays clearer than freestone WV waters.
Elk River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month. Pre-runoff window — wild trout coming up to dries.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — March
Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month — Shavers Fork signature early hatch. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs. First major brookie dry-fly window of the year.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Hendrickson (size 14) starting late month. Pre-runoff window — limestone keeps NF clearer than freestone WV waters.
Williams River — March
Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month — Williams River signature early hatch. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs. First brookie dry-fly window of the year.
Greenbrier River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Quill Gordon (size 14) starting late month. Pre-runoff window — limestone influence keeps Greenbrier fishable.
Beaverkill River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Blue Quill (size 18) late month. Pre-runoff window can be excellent — fish before the snowmelt rise.
Willowemoc Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Blue Quill (size 18) late month. Pre-runoff window can be excellent — fish before the snowmelt rise.
East Branch Delaware River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Midges. Tailwater advantage — flows stay fishable while freestone Catskills run high. Blue Quill (size 18) late month.
West Branch Delaware River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Midges. Pre-runoff tailwater advantage — stable dam-controlled flows. Blue Quill (size 18) late month.
Esopus Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Blue Quill (size 18) late month. Pre-runoff window — Phoenicia corridor accessible.
Schoharie Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window — Schoharie runs higher and stainier than the Beaverkill after rain.
Neversink River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Blue Quill (size 18) late month. Pre-runoff window.
Rondout Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window short on small tributary. Caddis starting late month.
Ausable River (East Branch) — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building late month. Pre-runoff window short — Adirondack snowmelt blows out flows quickly.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building late month. Spring lake-run Atlantic salmon (NYSDEC Lake Champlain recovery) showing up in lower river.
Saranac River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building late month. Pre-runoff window short — Adirondack snowmelt blows out flows.
Raquette River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building late month. Pre-runoff window short — note Raymondville gauge reads high; upper river runs much lower.
Black River (upper) — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window — Boonville gauge captures upper foothills drainage.
Penns Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Blue Quill (size 18) late month. Pre-runoff window with steady limestone flows — excellent.
Spring Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building strong. Caddis (size 16-18) starting late month. Pre-runoff window — limestone advantage when freestones rise.
Big Fishing Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Caddis (size 16-18) starting late month. Pre-runoff window in Clinton County limestone country.
Little Juniata River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Caddis (size 16-18) starting late month. Pre-runoff window prime on the Little J.
Yellow Breeches Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Caddis (size 16-18) starting late month. Pre-runoff window stable on limestone.
Tulpehocken Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Midges. Tailwater advantage — flows stay fishable while freestones rise.
Brodhead Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Blue Quill (size 18) late month. Pre-runoff window — Brodhead spikes hard after Pocono rain.
Bushkill Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Caddis (size 16-18) starting late month. Pre-runoff window short on small water.
Loyalsock Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Caddis (size 16-18) late month. Pre-runoff window — Loyalsock spikes hard, drops fast.
Pine Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window — Pine spikes hard with Allegheny snowmelt.
Kettle Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window — Kettle Creek Reservoir provides modest flow stabilization downstream.
Young Womans Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month if flows allow. Pre-runoff small-water window short.
Battenkill River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Blue Quill (size 18) late month. Pre-runoff window — Battenkill stays manageable in spring.
White River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window short — White spikes with central VT snowmelt.
Mad River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Pre-runoff window short — Mad spikes hard with Green Mountain snowmelt.
Lamoille River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building late month. Spring lake-run rainbows starting to push upstream from Lake Champlain.
Winooski River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window — Winooski responds aggressively to weather, watch CFS.
Dog River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month if flows allow. Pre-runoff small-water window short.
Black River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Caddis starting late month. Pre-runoff window — Springfield corridor accessible.
West River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window — but USACE release events can blow out the fishery for days. Always check schedule.
Williams River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window short on small water.
Missisquoi River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Pre-runoff window short — Missisquoi spikes hard with Quebec border snowmelt.
West Branch Penobscot — March
Ice still locking up most of the river. BWOs (size 20) when fishable late month.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — March
Ice still on. BWOs (size 20) possible late month if water opens.
Kennebec River – The Forks — March
BWOs (size 20) possible late month. Pre-runoff window narrow.
Dead River — March
Pre-runoff window short. BWOs (size 20) possible late month.
Sandy River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Pre-runoff window.
Carrabassett River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Pre-runoff window.
Magalloway River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-smelt staging.
Narraguagus River — March
BWOs (size 20) starting late month. Pre-runoff window.
Rapid River — March
Ice still on. Plan for May.
Roach River — March
Ice still on. Plan for May smelt run.
Kennebago River — March
Ice still on. Plan for May.
Ellis River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Pre-runoff window short on small drainage.
Swift River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Saco River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window.
Androscoggin River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window.
Pemigewasset River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-runoff window.
Wild River — March
Still locked up. Plan for spring.
Ammonoosuc River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Stoneflies. Pre-runoff window — tailwater stays stable.
Smith River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Cold River — March
BWOs (size 20) starting late month.
Deerfield River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-Hendrickson nymphing productive. Releases ramping up for whitewater season.
Swift River — March
BWOs (size 20-22) building. Midges still primary. Pre-Sulphur staging.
Westfield River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Pre-runoff window narrow.
West Branch Westfield River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Pre-runoff window.
East Branch Westfield River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Millers River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Squannacook River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Nissitissit River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Cold River — March
BWOs (size 20) starting late month.
Farmington River (MA Section) — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Ware River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Farmington River — March
BWOs (size 20-22) building. Pre-Hendrickson nymphing productive. Releases moderating.
Housatonic River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-Hendrickson nymphing.
Salmon River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-Hendrickson staging.
Willimantic River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Natchaug River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Shepaug River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Mad River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Bantam River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Pre-runoff stable lake-fed flow.
Blackledge River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Jeremy River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Still River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Gunpowder Falls — March
BWOs (size 20-22) building. Pre-Hendrickson nymphing. Sulphur staging.
Little Gunpowder Falls — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Big Hunting Creek — March
BWOs (size 20) starting late month. Pre-Hendrickson nymphing.
Savage River — March
BWOs (size 20-22) building. Pre-Hendrickson nymphing. Releases moderate.
North Branch Potomac River — March
BWOs (size 20-22) building. Pre-Hendrickson nymphing.
Youghiogheny River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Pre-runoff window narrow.
Casselman River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Antietam Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Catoctin Creek — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Patuxent River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building.
Monocacy River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Pre-stocking nymphing.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Early Black Stoneflies.
Musconetcong River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Big Flat Brook — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month. Quill Gordons (size 14) emerging late month.
Pequest River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Paulinskill River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Rockaway River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building.
Ramapo River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Wanaque River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) building.
Black River (Lamington River) — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Pequannock River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) starting late month.
Deschutes River — March
SKWALA peak (size 8-10). BWOs (size 18-20) on cloudy days. March Browns starting. Redsides eating dries before crowds arrive.
McKenzie River — March
March Browns (size 12-14) emerging. BWOs (size 18-20). Skwala-style Western March Browns. Pre-runoff window.
Metolius River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges always. March Browns (size 12-14) beginning late month.
North Umpqua River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Wild redsides waking up. Steelhead fading.
Rogue River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Steelhead fading. Trout waking up.
Williamson River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-runoff window — clear water, big fish.
Crooked River — March
BWOs (size 18-20) strong on cloudy days. Midges. Pre-runoff (Crooked is regulated below Bowman, less affected).
Fall River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-spring window — clear cold flows.
Sandy River — March
Winter steelhead continuing. BWOs (size 18-20). Sea-run cutthroat active. Pre-spring trout window.
Clackamas River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Steelhead fading.
Grande Ronde River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Wild redsides active.
Wallowa River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Wild redsides active.
John Day River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Smallmouth and redsides waking up.
Sprague River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-runoff window — clear water.
Wood River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-spring window — sight-fishing prime.
Hosmer Lake — March
Lake still iced over at high elevation. Plan for May ice-out.
Yakima River — March
SKWALA at peak (size 8-10) — the Yakima Skwala draws anglers from across the West. BWOs (size 18-20) on cloudy days. March Browns starting.
Wenatchee River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Pre-runoff trout active.
Methow River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Wild redsides waking up.
Skagit River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs starting (size 20-22) on cloudy days. Pre-spring window beginning.
Skykomish River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs (size 18-20). Sea-run cutthroat active. Pre-spring window.
Stillaguamish River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD — closures common in March to protect wild fish. BWOs (size 18-20). Sea-run cutthroat active.
Sauk River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs starting on cloudy days. Bull trout active.
Hoh River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs starting on cloudy days. Sea-run cutthroat active in lower river.
Bogachiel River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs starting on cloudy days. Sea-run cutthroat active.
Queets River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs on cloudy days. Sea-run cutthroat active.
Sol Duc River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs on cloudy days. Sea-run cutthroat active.
Snoqualmie River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD fading. BWOs (size 18-20). Sea-run cutthroat active. Pre-spring window.
Spokane River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). Midges. March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Brown trout pre-runoff active.
Little Spokane River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-runoff window — clear water.
Naches River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Wild redsides waking up.
Tucannon River — March
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Wild rainbows active.
Hat Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges always. Pre-PMD window — wild rainbows active in the riffles below PH2.
Fall River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges always. Pre-PMD window opens — fish move into the flats.
Pit River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges. Caddis beginning late month in lower sections.
McCloud River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges. March Browns (size 12-14) starting late month.
Upper Sacramento River — March
SKWALA continues early month. BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14). Pre-runoff window — catch it before late-spring rains.
Trinity River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD tapering. BWOs (size 18-20) picking up. March Browns (size 12-14) late month.
Klamath River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD tapering. BWOs (size 18-20). Spring trout window opening in the upper sections.
Feather River Low Flow Channel — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges always. Spring window opens — fewer anglers than the Mountain West.
Truckee River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges. March Browns starting late month (size 12-14).
Little Truckee River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges. Spring window opening on the small tailwater.
East Walker River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges always. Pre-PMD window — large browns active.
West Walker River — March
BWOs starting (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-runoff window beginning.
Lee Vining Creek — March
Cold water continues. Snowpack still heavy. Verify access — many sections inaccessible until late spring.
Owens River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges always. Best early-season month — pre-runoff window.
Hot Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges always. Spring window — the spring creek waking up.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — March
Cold water continues. Limited road access. Verify which sections are reachable.
Kings River — March
Cold water continues. Most access roads still closed.
Kern River — March
BWOs starting (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-runoff window opening on the Kernville stretch.
Russian River — March
WINTER STEELHEAD tapering. BWOs (size 18-20) starting for resident trout in the upper river. Verify current closures.
Au Sable River — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener is the last Saturday of April. Plan trips, tie flies.
Au Sable North Branch — March
Closed to trout fishing. Opener last Saturday of April.
Au Sable South Branch — March
Closed to trout fishing. Opener last Saturday of April.
Pere Marquette River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD building — fresh fish from Lake Michigan. Egg patterns, stonefly nymphs. Best month for steelhead variety on the PM.
Manistee River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD building below Tippy. Fresh chrome arriving from Lake Michigan. Indicator nymphing prime time.
Muskegon River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD entering from Lake Michigan via the Muskegon. Fresh chrome below Croton. Prime month for steelhead variety.
Jordan River — March
Closed to trout fishing. Opener last Saturday of April.
Boardman River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD entering the lower river. Indicator nymphing with eggs, stoneflies. Newly opened upstream habitat in active recovery.
Betsie River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD entering the river — fresh chrome from Lake Michigan. Prime month.
Pine River — March
Closed to trout fishing. Opener last Saturday of April.
Pigeon River — March
Closed to trout fishing. Opener last Saturday of April.
Sturgeon River — March
Closed to trout fishing. Steelhead building in lower river.
Black River — March
Closed to trout fishing. Opener last Saturday of April.
Two-Hearted River — March
Closed to trout fishing. Snowpack still heavy — verify forest road access.
Fox River — March
Closed to trout fishing. Snowpack still heavy.
Timber Coulee Creek — March
Catch-and-release early season in some Driftless reaches — verify WDNR. BWOs (size 18-22) on overcast days. Midges. Limestone spring-creek temps stay stable through winter.
West Fork Kickapoo River — March
Catch-and-release early season in some Driftless reaches — verify WDNR. BWOs (size 18-22) on cloudy days. Midges. Spring-creek flows stable.
Kickapoo River — March
Catch-and-release early season in some Driftless reaches — verify WDNR. BWOs (size 18-22). Midges. Mainstem flows higher than the small spring creeks.
Black Earth Creek — March
Catch-and-release early season in some sections — verify WDNR. BWOs (size 18-22). Midges. Limestone spring-creek temps stable.
Mt. Vernon Creek — March
Catch-and-release early season — verify WDNR. BWOs (size 18-22). Midges. Small cold water — limestone temps stable.
Elk Creek — March
Catch-and-release early season — verify WDNR. BWOs (size 18-22). Midges.
Blue River — March
Catch-and-release early season on some sections — verify WDNR. BWOs (size 18-22). Midges. ERW protections apply year-round when open.
Seas Branch — March
Catch-and-release early season on some Driftless reaches — verify WDNR. Midges. Small headwater spring stays cold and stable.
Tomorrow River — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener first Saturday in May. Plan trips, tie flies.
Wolf River — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener first Saturday in May.
Bois Brule River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD entering from Lake Superior on lower river (open sections only — verify WDNR). Egg patterns and stonefly nymphs. Cold-water nymphing.
Namekagon River — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener first Saturday in May.
White River — March
Closed — heavy snowpack. Verify access roads.
Prairie River — March
Closed — opener first Saturday in May.
Oconto River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD entering from Green Bay / Lake Michigan on the lower river. Egg patterns, stonefly nymphs.
Root River — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener second Saturday in April. BWOs and midges visible to scouting anglers; tie flies, plan trips.
South Branch Root River — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener second Saturday in April.
North Branch Root River — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener second Saturday in April.
Whitewater River — March
Year-round C&R inside park — late-winter dry-fly opportunity. BWOs (size 18-22) on cloudy days. Pre-opener access for inside-park anglers.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener second Saturday in April.
North Fork Whitewater River — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener second Saturday in April.
Trout Run Creek — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener second Saturday in April.
Rush Creek — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener second Saturday in April.
Straight River — March
Closed to trout fishing — opener second Saturday in April.
Knife River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD entering from Lake Superior on lower river — peak run March into April. Egg patterns, stonefly nymphs. Cold-water nymphing. North Shore tributary rules apply.
Baptism River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD entering from Lake Superior on lower river — peak run March into April. Egg patterns, stonefly nymphs.
Cascade River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD entering from Lake Superior on lower river — peak run March into April. Egg patterns, stonefly nymphs.
Temperance River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD entering from Lake Superior on lower river — peak run March into April. Egg patterns, stonefly nymphs.
Brule River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD entering from Lake Superior on lower river — peak run March into April. Judge Magney State Park / Devil's Kettle. Egg patterns, stonefly nymphs.
Poplar River — March
SPRING STEELHEAD entering from Lake Superior on lower river — peak run March into April. Egg patterns, stonefly nymphs.
Upper Iowa River — March
BWOs picking up on cloudy days (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring window — water warming, fish moving onto shallow shelves.
Yellow River — March
BWOs picking up on cloudy days (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring water warming.
Volga River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring window.
Turkey River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring water warming.
Bloody Run Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring water warming on cold limestone-spring water.
Paint Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring water warming.
Bear Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring water warming.
North Fork Maquoketa River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring water warming.
Waterloo Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring water warming. No live CFS — fly shops are best source.
French Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges.
Village Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges.
White River — March
BWOs (size 18-22) picking up on cloudy days. Midges still primary. Scuds productive. Pre-spring window before spring rains push lake levels.
North Fork River — March
BWOs (size 18-22) picking up on cloudy days. Midges. Scuds. Pre-spring window.
Little Red River — March
BWOs (size 18-22) picking up on cloudy days. Midges. Scuds. Heavy hydropeaking — generation schedule drives everything.
Spring River — March
BWOs (size 18-22) picking up on cloudy days. Midges. Scuds. Spring water is one of the most stable trout fisheries in the country.
Crooked Creek — March
BWOs picking up on cloudy days (size 18-22). Midges. Scuds. Pre-spring fishing.
Chagrin River — March
STEELHEAD spring run building (peak March–April). BWOs (size 18-20) returning on overcast days. Egg patterns, stoneflies, streamers.
Grand River — March
STEELHEAD spring run building (peak March–April). BWOs (size 18-20) on overcast days. Egg patterns, stoneflies, streamers.
Rocky River — March
STEELHEAD spring run building (peak March–April). BWOs (size 18-20) on overcast days. Egg patterns, stoneflies, streamers.
Vermilion River — March
STEELHEAD spring run building (peak March–April). BWOs (size 18-20) on overcast days.
Conneaut Creek — March
STEELHEAD spring run building (peak March–April). BWOs (size 18-20) on overcast days.
Cuyahoga River — March
STEELHEAD spring run building (peak March–April). BWOs (size 18-20) on overcast days.
Ashtabula River — March
STEELHEAD spring run building (peak March–April). BWOs (size 18-20) on overcast days.
Mad River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring window.
Big Darby Creek — March
Pre-spawn smallmouth as water warms. Streamers, crayfish patterns.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Spring stocking begins.
Current River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring window — stocked trout fresh from MDC winter operations on the upper Current near Montauk.
Jacks Fork River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring window with stable spring-fed flows.
Eleven Point River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring window. Crystal clear water — stealth required.
North Fork of White River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-spring window — wild trout active.
Huzzah Creek — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Spring stocking begins.
Gasconade River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. MDC spring stocking begins on the upper river.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — March
Strong BWO emergence on cloudy days (size 18-22). Midges still active. Pre-spring stocking from GA DNR boosts numbers.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — March
BWOs picking up strongly (size 18-22). Midges. DH section (GA Hwy 28 to Reed Creek) is at peak — single-hook artificial only.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Pre-stocking — wild fish active in the headwaters reach.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Artificial-only restriction in effect through last Saturday of March. Watch the Eton gauge as a flood indicator only — wild trout water is 15-20 mi upstream.
Soque River — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Spring stocking on public reaches.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — March
BWOs picking up (size 18-22). Midges. Watch TVA generation schedule — pulses can spike fishable wading water in minutes.
Kenai River — March
River breakup beginning. Resident rainbow trout fishery effectively closed. ⚠️ 2026 King salmon FULL CLOSURE.
Russian River — March
Off-season. River breakup. Trail access limited.
Anchor River — March
Off-season. River breakup. Pre-season prep only.
Gulkana River — March
Off-season. River breakup beginning.
Situk River — March
Pre-spring-run prep. Forest Highway 9 may still be unplowed.
Naknek River — March
Off-season. Pre-season prep.
Spearfish Creek — March
BWO, Midges, early Caddis (#16–18)
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — March
BWO, Midges, small Caddis
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — March
Midges, BWO, early Caddis
Spring Creek — March
BWO, Midges, small Stoneflies
Whitewood Creek — March
Midges, BWO, early Caddis
Castle Creek — March
BWO, Midges, early Caddis
Cumberland River Tailwater — March
BWO, Cinnamon Caddis, Little Sister Caddis, midges. Peak activity begins as water rebuilds insect biomass.
Hatchery Creek — March
Midges, Scuds. Small Soft Hackles. Some early Caddis on warm afternoons.
Green River Tailwater — March
Midges, BWO (#18–20), small Caddis. Stocking begins; fresh fish respond to bright attractors and small nymphs.
Barren River Tailwater — March
Midges, BWO (#18–20), small Nymphs. Stocking begins — fresh fish on bright attractors.
Rockcastle River — March
Early Stoneflies (#12–14), Midges, small Nymphs. Trout stocking starts late month.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — March
Midges, BWO, early small Caddis. C&R section building toward end-of-season closeout.
Rock Creek — March
Midges, BWO (#18–20). Pre-stocking; small dries on cloudy days.
Truckee River — March
BWO, Midges, early Caddis; cutthroat run continues
East Walker River — March
BWO, Midges, early Caddis
West Walker River — March
BWO, Midges, early Caddis; spring runoff begins
East Fork Carson River — March
BWO, Midges, Caddis; runoff approaching
Lamoille Creek — March
Midges, BWO; road typically opens March–April
South Fork Humboldt River — March
BWO, Midges, early Caddis
Guadalupe River — March
BWO (#18–20), Elk Hair Caddis (#14–16), Hare's Ear Nymph; trout stocking ends
Llano River — March
Poppers (#6–8) start working; Clouser Minnows; Crayfish patterns (#4–8)
Blanco River — March
Poppers (#6–8); Deer Hair Ants; Crayfish patterns; bass pre-spawn
Pedernales River — March
Poppers (#6–8); Deer Hair Ants; Foam Beetles; pre-spawn
Frio River — March
Poppers (#6–8); Foam Beetles; Crayfish patterns; bass pre-spawn
South Llano River — March
Poppers; Foam Beetles; Deer Hair Ants; bass becoming active
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — March
BWO (#18–20); early Caddis (#14–16); Hare's Ear Nymph; Pheasant Tail
Cahaba River — March
Poppers (#6–8); Crayfish patterns; Clouser Minnows; bass pre-spawn
Little River Canyon — March
Crayfish patterns; Clouser Minnows; bass becoming active
Tallapoosa River — March
Midges; small Caddis; Streamers; striped bass push up from Martin
Paint Rock River — March
Crayfish patterns; Clouser Minnows; bass becoming active
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — March
Crayfish patterns; Clouser Minnows; smallmouth pre-spawn
Blue River — March
BWO (#18–20); early Caddis (#14–16); Pheasant Tail; Hare's Ear; spring stocking peak
Mountain Fork River — March
BWO (#18–20); Caddis (#14–16); Pheasant Tail; spring tailwater warming slowly
Illinois River — March
Crayfish patterns; Clouser Minnows; bass becoming active; pre-spawn staging
Baron Fork — March
Crayfish patterns; Clouser Minnows; smallmouth pre-spawn in deeper runs
Glover River — March
Crayfish patterns; Clouser Minnows; smallmouth pre-spawn; check flows
Kiamichi River — March
Crayfish patterns; Clouser Minnows; largemouth pre-spawn; smallmouth upstream
April Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — April
Strong BWO hatches on cloudy days (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. PMDs possible in warmer stretches. Good variety month — match what fish are eating.
Arkansas River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Watch CFS closely — runoff can spike suddenly in April. Good fishing if you catch it right.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — April
MOTHER'S DAY CADDIS (size 14-16) — this is the month. The Pueblo tailwater produces one of Colorado's most reliable and prolific caddis hatches in April and early May. Book the trip. Elk Hair Caddis and Graphic Caddis are your flies.
Blue River — April
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges and Mysis continue. One of the best spring months — stable flows while Front Range rivers begin runoff. Crowds light in early April.
Bear Creek — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Early Caddis possible. Watch flows — spring runoff can blow this small stream out quickly. Always check the gauge.
Colorado River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Watch CFS closely — this big river can rise fast in April. Big water experience recommended.
Frying Pan River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning in lower canyon (size 14-16). Consistent tailwater flows make April one of the best months before Front Range crowds arrive.
Roaring Fork River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis starting. Watch CFS — this freestone river begins rising in April from Elk Mountain snowmelt. Excellent fishing if you catch it before the rise.
Cache la Poudre River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning (size 14-16). Golden Stoneflies starting in the canyon. Watch CFS — the Poudre can spike fast in April from Laramie Mountains drainage.
Taylor River — April
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Tailwater stability makes April excellent while freestone rivers blow out. Scenic Almont Canyon filling out with green. Pre-season crowds are low.
Gunnison River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Watch CFS — this big river rises dramatically in April. Gunnison Gorge NCA access via North Rim trails. Streamers work well in higher flows.
Eagle River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Watch CFS — Eagle blows out quickly from heavy Vail ski area snowpack. Best fishing early April before spring rise hits.
Yampa River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis starting (size 14-16). Watch CFS — Yampa runoff can be dramatic, fed by extensive Northwest Colorado snowpack. April window is narrow but productive.
Rio Grande — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Watch CFS — Rio Grande can begin spring rise in April from San Juan Mountains snowmelt. Good fishing if you catch the early April window.
Crystal River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Crystal River is more sensitive to runoff than larger rivers — watch CFS carefully. Upper sections near Marble blow out faster than lower.
Dolores River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning (size 14-16). One of the best April fisheries in the state — reservoir regulation keeps flows ideal while mountain rivers start blowing out.
North Platte River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Watch CFS — North Platte begins rising from North Park snowmelt. Good window early April before rise. Walden meadow stretch most productive.
Slate River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Watch CFS — this small alpine stream blows out fast. Watch closely: when it's good in April it's very good. When it's off, wait.
San Juan River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis starting (size 14-16). Watch CFS — San Juan drainage from Weminuche Wilderness can begin runoff in April. Green Drakes possible late April in warmer years.
Animas River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis starting (size 14-16). Watch CFS — Animas drains large Weminuche Wilderness and San Juan peaks. April can spike quickly. Early April window is narrow but excellent.
East River — April
BWOs active. Caddis possible. This small Gunnison County river starts rising in April from Elk Mountain and Gothic area snowpack. Catch the early April window — it's outstanding.
Fraser River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Watch CFS carefully — Fraser rises quickly from heavy Front Range snowpack. Early April window is short. Note: gauge may underreport true flow due to Moffat diversion.
Dream Stream — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Watch flows from Spinney Mountain releases. South Park runoff can spike in April. Catch the pre-runoff window for exceptional dry fly fishing in open meadow country.
Gore Creek — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis starting (size 14-16). Watch CFS — Gore Creek rises quickly from heavy Vail Pass snowpack. Early April window before the rise is narrow but often excellent.
Cheesman Canyon — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Upper South Platte drainage snowmelt can push flows — check Hartsel gauge proxy before committing to the 5-mile hike.
Williams Fork River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis possible (size 14-16). Consistent tailwater flows while surrounding freestone rivers start runoff. April is one of the best months — quality fish, minimal pressure.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — April
BWOs active. Caddis beginning (size 14-16). Watch CFS carefully — Colorado River rises dramatically in April from snowmelt. Float planning season: scout Pumphouse launch and State Bridge takeout.
Conejos River — April
BWOs active. Caddis beginning (size 14-16). Watch CFS — Conejos drains significant San Juan snowpack. April window before runoff can be outstanding for wild cutthroat on BWO dries.
San Miguel River — April
BWOs active. Caddis beginning. Watch CFS — Wilson Peak and Telluride area snowpack can spike flows quickly in April. Golden Stonefly possible late April in canyon sections.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — April
BWOs active. Caddis possible. Watch CFS — Lake Fork drains significant Uncompahgre and San Juan snowpack. April window before runoff can be excellent. CO-149 corridor accessible with normal vehicles.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — April
BWOs picking up (size 18-20) on cloudy days. Midges always. Rainbow spawn peaks — RESPECT REDDS, do not wade through gravel. Streamer action remains strong on browns.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — April
BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges. Rainbow spawn — DO NOT WADE THROUGH REDDS. Streamer action strong on browns. High desert wind can shut down dry fly action.
Snake River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) starting on cloudy days. Midges active. Pre-runoff fishing window — short but productive. Snake River Finespotted Cutthroat beginning to feed.
Green River — Fontenelle — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Midges. Tailwater stability while Snake and other WY freestones rise with runoff. Underrated April option.
Shoshone River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning (size 14-16). Watch CFS — Shoshone runoff starts in April from Absaroka snowpack. Dam regulation buffers but doesn't eliminate.
Bighorn River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Midges. Rainbow spawn peaks — DO NOT WADE THROUGH SPAWNING GRAVEL. Streamer action strong on browns. Tailwater stays fishable.
Laramie River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning (size 14-16). Watch CFS — Laramie can spike with Snowy Range and Medicine Bow snowmelt. Pre-runoff fishing productive.
New Fork River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) starting. Midges. Pre-runoff fishing window short — Wind Range snowmelt starts pushing flows late April.
Hoback River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) starting. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — Hoback runs hard with Hoback Range snowmelt starting late April.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active in lower sections. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — Beartooth snowmelt starts pushing flows late April. Highway 296 (Chief Joseph) typically clearing for access.
Salt River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff fishing window — short but productive. Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat post-spawn feeding in the meadows.
Green River — April
BWOs at peak (size 18-20) — best dry-fly month before summer hatches kick in. Midges. Scuds and sowbugs always productive. Tailwater stays consistent while UT freestones rise with snowmelt.
Provo River (Middle) — April
BWOs at peak (size 18-20) — best dry-fly month before summer hatches. Caddis (size 14-18) starting late month. Midges. Tailwater stability while UT freestones rise. Still ~200 CFS sweet spot for wading.
Weber River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). MOTHER'S DAY CADDIS / Little Black Caddis (size 14-18) building rapidly late month — one of Utah's signature hatches. Spotted Sedge starting. Echo releases stable.
Ogden River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. Midges. Tailwater stability. Salmonfly nymphs migrating to bank-side rocks — drop a stone-imitation nymph deep.
Strawberry River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff fishing window — but flows can spike fast with Uinta snowmelt feeding the upper drainage. Always check the Pinnacles gauge before driving out.
Logan River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active in the lower canyon — best dry-fly window before runoff. Midges. Caddis nymphs becoming active. Pre-runoff fishing window short but productive.
Bear River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — snowmelt from the north slope of the Uintas and Bear Lake region pushes flows late April.
Beaver River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) possible. Midges. Pre-runoff fishing window short — Tushar snowmelt starts pushing flows late April.
Fremont River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff window — small drainage means brief runoff. Caddis nymphs becoming active.
East Fork Sevier River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff fishing window — flows building with snowmelt. Caddis nymphs becoming active in the canyon.
Oak Creek — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Caddis (size 14-16) starting on warm afternoons. Stocked rainbows aggressive after winter — easy fishing for new anglers along SR-89A pullouts.
West Fork Oak Creek — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Caddis nymphs (size 16-18) becoming active. Stoneflies in upper canyon. Trailhead crowds ramping up — get there early.
East Fork Black River — April
FR 276 opening late month in normal years. Pre-runoff flows building. Apache Trout becoming active as water clears. Verify tribal permits before the drive.
West Fork Black River — April
Limited access — primitive 4WD roads still snowbound or muddy in normal years. Verify tribal permits if planning ahead.
North Fork White River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) possible on overcast days. Pre-runoff fishing in lower river. Tribal permits required PLUS state license — verify dates with the White Mountain Apache Tribe.
Canyon Creek — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff fishing window — but flows can spike fast with Mogollon Rim snowmelt. Always check the gauge before driving the rough roads.
Tonto Creek — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Caddis (size 14-16) starting on warm afternoons. Stocked rainbows aggressive after winter — easy fishing for new anglers and families.
Silver Creek — April
April 1 — standard regulations resume. BWOs (size 18-20) active. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Midges. Spring season opener brings crowds — mid-week best.
East Clear Creek — April
BWOs (size 18-20) possible. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — small drainage runoff is brief. Approach roads opening late month.
Little Colorado River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff fishing window — flows building with snowmelt from the upper drainage.
Chevelon Creek — April
BWOs (size 18-20) possible. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — small drainage. Approach roads opening late month.
San Juan River — April
BWOs active (size 20-22) on overcast days. Midges always. Rainbow spawn peaks — sight fishing pre-spawn fish in skinny water. Tailwater stability while NM freestones rise.
Rio Grande — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) beginning — Mother's Day Caddis hatches in lower canyon usually start late April here, weeks ahead of CO. Stoneflies. Pre-runoff prime.
Rio Chama — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting — Chama caddis hatches kick off weeks ahead of CO. Midges. Tailwater stability while NM freestones rise.
Cimarron River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Caddis (size 14-16) beginning — Cimarron caddis hatches start weeks ahead of similar-elevation CO streams. Stocked rainbows feeding aggressively.
Pecos River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting in lower sections. Pre-runoff fishing productive — stocked rainbows aggressive after winter.
Brazos River — April
Access road opening late month in normal years. BWOs (size 18-20), Caddis (size 14-16) starting in lower sections.
Red River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Caddis (size 14-16) beginning. Stocked rainbows aggressive after winter — easy fishing for new anglers.
Jemez River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) beginning — Jemez caddis hatches kick off in early April, weeks ahead of CO. Pre-runoff fishing productive.
Gila River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) heavy through the canyon — Gila caddis emerge in April, well ahead of the rest of NM. Pre-runoff window prime time. Pack-in to reach native Gila Trout water.
Henry's Fork — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges. First Caddis possible in lower river late month. Spring-fed flows stay consistent — major advantage over freestones.
South Fork Snake River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Midges. Skwala stoneflies (size 8-10) possible late month — a hidden hatch on the South Fork. Pre-runoff window prime before Palisades releases ramp up.
Silver Creek — April
CLOSED through Memorial Day weekend. Crane Creek and Loving Creek are similarly closed. Watch the Nature Conservancy site for opener announcements.
Big Wood River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — Sawtooth and Smoky Mountain snowmelt starts pushing flows late April.
South Fork Boise River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Midges. Tailwater stability while ID freestones rise. Rainbow spawn beginning — RESPECT REDDS.
Salmon River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active in upper river. Steelhead winding down in lower river. Pre-runoff fishing window short — Sawtooth snowmelt starts pushing flows late April.
Clearwater River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active in lower sections. Midges. Pre-runoff window opening for resident trout. Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. Steelhead season closed in most sections.
Lochsa River — April
Pre-runoff window — most stretches still closed by IDFG regulation. Watch for summer season opener typically Memorial Day weekend.
Teton River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Caddis (size 14-16) beginning late month. Pre-runoff fishing window — short but productive. Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat post-spawn feeding.
Fall River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — Yellowstone snowmelt starts pushing flows late April.
St. Joe River — April
Most stretches closed. Pre-runoff window doesn't apply — wait for the summer C&R season opener.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active for resident trout. Pre-runoff window opening. Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. Steelhead season closing in most sections.
Selway River — April
Pre-runoff window — most stretches still closed by IDFG regulation. Watch for summer season opener typically Memorial Day weekend.
Boise River — April
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. Midges. Tailwater stability while Idaho freestones rise with snowmelt. Rainbow spawn beginning — RESPECT REDDS in side channels.
Madison River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. Midges. Pre-runoff window prime — flows manageable, hatches building. Mother's Day Caddis often arrives late April on lower river.
Missouri River — April
BWOs at peak (size 18-20) — best dry fly month before summer hatches kick in. Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. Midges. Tailwater stability while MT freestones rise with snowmelt.
Yellowstone River — April
BWOs active (size 18-20). Midges. Pre-runoff window short — Yellowstone Plateau snowmelt typically pushes flows hard from late April through June.
Big Hole River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Skwala stoneflies (size 8-10) possible late month — a hidden Big Hole hatch. Pre-runoff window short — Pioneer Mountain snowmelt starts pushing flows late April.
Bitterroot River — April
Skwalas tapering early month. BWOs (size 18-20) continuing strong. March Browns (size 12-14) possible. Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. Pre-runoff window prime.
Clark Fork River — April
SKWALAS continuing early month. BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14). Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. Pre-runoff fishing window — short but productive.
Blackfoot River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. March Browns (size 12-14) possible. Skwalas (size 10-12) possible in lower river. Pre-runoff fishing window — short before snowmelt arrives.
Gallatin River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — Madison Range snowmelt starts pushing flows late April.
Flathead River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) possible in lower stretches on warmer afternoons. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — Bob Marshall Wilderness snowmelt usually pushes flows by late April.
Smith River — April
Pre-season — float permits not yet active. Pre-runoff window opening on lower river. Plan for the May–July canyon season.
Rock Creek — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Skwalas (size 10-12) possible. Pre-runoff fishing window — short but productive. Single barbless hooks above Rock Creek confluence.
Stillwater River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active in lower sections. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — Beartooth snowmelt starts pushing flows late April.
Boulder River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active in lower sections. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — Absaroka snowmelt starts pushing flows late April.
Sun River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — Bob Marshall snowmelt starts pushing flows late April.
Ruby River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) active. Midges. Pre-runoff window short — Ruby Range snowmelt starts pushing flows late April.
Rapidan River — April
Hendricksons (size 14) at peak with Quill Gordons winding down. Blue Quills (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Native brookies eager — any small attractor dry will work in a good hatch.
South River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hendrickson (size 14) emerging mid-month. Sulphurs starting late. Caddis (size 14-16) beginning. Strong all-around hatch month.
Jackson River — April
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) beginning. Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting late month. Excellent month — cold tailwater + active hatches.
North Fork Shenandoah River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning (size 14-16). Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting late month. Stocked fish eager to dry flies.
Bullpasture River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon winding down. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs starting late month. Limestone clarity excellent.
Maury River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). March Brown (size 12) late month. Strong hatch variety.
Rose River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon winding down. BWOs (size 16-18). Wild brookies aggressive — any small attractor dry will work.
Conway River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs. Wild brookies hungry after winter — small attractor dries.
Passage Creek — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs starting late month. Strong limestone-tinted hatches.
Davidson River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting late month. Excellent variety.
Watauga River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs starting late month. Excellent hatch variety.
Nantahala River — April
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Excellent month — cold tailwater + hatches before whitewater season hits.
New River (North Carolina) — April
Hendrickson (size 14) in trout headwaters. BWOs (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Smallmouth waking up — pre-spawn aggression building.
Oconaluftee River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon winding down. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Light Cahill late month. Wild trout aggressive — best dry-fly month of spring.
French Broad River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs starting late month. Strong all-around hatch month.
Cataloochee Creek — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon winding down. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Light Cahill late month. Native brookies aggressive — small attractor dries.
Linville River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs starting late month. Strong hatch month — long hikes rewarded.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — April
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Excellent variety in cold consistent tailwater.
Little River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Light Cahill late month. Wild trout aggressive — best dry-fly month of spring.
Tellico River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs starting late month. TWRA stocking active — fresh fish weekly.
Cranberry River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting late month. WV opening day rush — pressure heavy near roads.
South Branch Potomac River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting late month. Caddis (size 14-16) building. Strong limestone hatches.
Elk River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs starting late month. Strong hatch month.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs starting late month. WV opening day rush — pressure heavy near roads.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting late month. Caddis (size 14-16) building. Strong limestone hatches in the canyon.
Williams River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs starting late month. WV opener pressure light on the Williams.
Greenbrier River — April
Hendrickson (size 14) peak. Quill Gordon. Blue Quill (size 18). BWOs (size 16-18). Sulphurs starting late month. Excellent hatch variety.
Beaverkill River — April
QUILL GORDON (size 14) early month — legendary Catskill early hatch, cold water, afternoon emergence. HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month — THE signature Catskill hatch (female Red Quill, male Hendrickson). The Junction Pool gets crowded.
Willowemoc Creek — April
QUILL GORDON (size 14) early month. HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month — THE signature Catskill hatch. Pressure picks up around Livingston Manor and Roscoe as the Hendrickson rolls.
East Branch Delaware River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) — strong tailwater emergence, slightly later than Beaverkill due to colder water. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. BWOs continuing.
West Branch Delaware River — April
QUILL GORDON (size 14) early month. HENDRICKSON (size 14) — premium emergence on the West Branch, fish keyed to female Red Quill spinners. Cold tailwater extends hatch.
Esopus Creek — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month — strong emergence. Quill Gordon. BWOs continuing. Caddis starting. Phoenicia gets busy.
Schoharie Creek — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month — northern Catskills runs slightly later than the Beaverkill. BWOs continuing. Caddis starting.
Neversink River — April
QUILL GORDON (size 14) early month — Hewitt and LaBranche named this hatch on the Neversink. HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month.
Rondout Creek — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. BWOs (size 18). Caddis (size 14-16) heavy throughout — a Rondout signature.
Ausable River (East Branch) — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) early month — Adirondack hatches run 1-2 weeks earlier than Catskills at lower elevations. BWOs. Quill Gordon.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) early month — Adirondack hatches earlier than Catskills. BWOs. Lake-run salmon present in some years. Quill Gordon.
Saranac River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) early month. BWOs. Caddis starting. Spring lake-run rainbows possible in lower river near Plattsburgh.
Raquette River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) early month. BWOs. Caddis starting. Stoneflies emerging. Adirondack hatches run earlier than Catskills.
Black River (upper) — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) early-to-mid month — Adirondack foothills earlier than Catskills. BWOs. Caddis starting.
Penns Creek — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) building late month. Caddis starting (size 14-16). BWOs continuing. Coburn-to-Ingleby C&R section gets attention.
Spring Creek — April
BWOs continuing (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) heavy emergence. Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting late month. Spring sight-fishing prime.
Big Fishing Creek — April
Caddis (size 14-16) emergence. HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. BWOs continuing. Heritage Trout Angling sections get attention.
Little Juniata River — April
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy emergence — Little J caddis are legendary. HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. BWOs continuing.
Yellow Breeches Creek — April
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. BWOs continuing. Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting late month. Boiling Springs C&R prime water.
Tulpehocken Creek — April
BWOs continuing (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Sulphurs starting late month. DHALO sections get attention.
Brodhead Creek — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month — strong Pocono emergence. BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Analomink corridor prime.
Bushkill Creek — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) — strong eastern PA emergence. Caddis (size 14-16) active. BWOs continuing. Best month.
Loyalsock Creek — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. Caddis (size 14-16) active. BWOs continuing. Stoneflies emerging.
Pine Creek — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. Caddis (size 14-16) active. BWOs continuing. Stoneflies emerging.
Kettle Creek — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. Caddis (size 14-16) active. BWOs continuing. Stoneflies emerging.
Young Womans Creek — April
PRIME EARLY-SEASON window — flows fishable, brookies waking. BWOs (size 18-20). Caddis starting. Hike-in fishing pays off.
Battenkill River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month — the signature Battenkill hatch. BWOs continuing. Cool flows on this gin-clear water.
White River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. BWOs continuing. Three Branches (First, Second, Third) offer smaller alternatives.
Mad River — April
BWOs (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. Stoneflies emerging. Spring window opens.
Lamoille River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) — Lamoille emergence late month. BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Lake-run rainbows present.
Winooski River — April
BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. Stoneflies. Upper sections above Montpelier preferred.
Dog River — April
BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Wild browns and brookies waking — small-water dry fly window opening.
Black River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month — solid southern VT emergence. Caddis (size 14-16) active. BWOs continuing.
West River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. RELEASE EVENTS in spring — verify before driving.
Williams River — April
BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Hendrickson (size 14) late month. Spring window opening.
Missisquoi River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Spring window opening.
West Branch Penobscot — April
Ice-out late month. BWOs (size 18-20) building. Smelt push beginning into May. Watch dam release schedule.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — April
Ice-out window. BWOs (size 18-20) building. Pre-smelt staging by salmon.
Kennebec River – The Forks — April
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Smelt push starting. Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month.
Dead River — April
BWOs (size 18-20) building. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Spring window opening.
Sandy River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting.
Carrabassett River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting.
Magalloway River — April
SMELT RUN beginning into May. Nymphing productive. BWOs continuing. Salmon and brookies feeding.
Narraguagus River — April
BWOs (size 18-20). Caddis starting. Spring window opening.
Rapid River — April
Ice-out late month. Middle Dam releases beginning. Plan for late May once flows stabilize.
Roach River — April
Ice-out late month. Pre-smelt staging.
Kennebago River — April
Ice-out late month. Pre-smelt staging by salmon.
Ellis River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Wild browns and brookies feeding.
Swift River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. High during snowmelt.
Saco River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Spring snowmelt may run river high.
Androscoggin River — April
BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Stoneflies. Big-water wading dangerous in spring snowmelt.
Pemigewasset River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting.
Wild River — April
Ice-out late month. Spring window opening.
Ammonoosuc River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — April
BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Stoneflies. Salmon run beginning into May.
Smith River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Early-season option when bigger rivers run high.
Cold River — April
BWOs (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Spring window opening.
Deerfield River — April
HENDRICKSONS (size 12-14) late month. BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Spring window opens.
Swift River — April
BWOs (size 20). Hendrickson cameo (size 14) limited. Caddis starting. Cold consistent water continues.
Westfield River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Spring window opening.
West Branch Westfield River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Early-season option.
East Branch Westfield River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). Spring C&R opening fishes well.
Millers River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting.
Squannacook River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). Spring-fed water fishes early.
Nissitissit River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). Spring window opens — fly-only C&R.
Cold River — April
BWOs (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Spring window opening.
Farmington River (MA Section) — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). Early-season option before CT TMA blows out.
Ware River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting.
Farmington River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 12-14) — TMA Hendrickson hatch is legendary. BWOs. Caddis starting late month.
Housatonic River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 12-14) late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting.
Salmon River — April
Hendrickson (size 12-14) late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. General season opens 2nd Saturday.
Willimantic River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). General season opens.
Natchaug River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). General season opens.
Shepaug River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). General season opens.
Mad River — April
BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16). General season opens — early-season stocked browns.
Bantam River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). Browns push up from Bantam Lake — early-spring window.
Blackledge River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). General season opens.
Jeremy River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). General season opens.
Still River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). Early small-stream dry fly.
Gunpowder Falls — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. BWOs continuing. CADDIS starting. Pre-Sulphur warmup.
Little Gunpowder Falls — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). MD trout opener (last Sat in March) — fresh stockings.
Big Hunting Creek — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Best window for the wild population.
Savage River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 12-14) late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting.
North Branch Potomac River — April
HENDRICKSON (size 14) late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16) starting.
Youghiogheny River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). MD trout opener.
Casselman River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). MD trout opener.
Antietam Creek — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). MD trout opener — fresh stockings.
Catoctin Creek — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). MD trout opener.
Patuxent River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). MD trout opener.
Monocacy River — April
MD trout opener. HENDRICKSON. Caddis (size 14-16). Best window — fresh stockings, cool water.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). NJ trout opener (2nd Sat in April).
Musconetcong River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). NJ trout opener.
Big Flat Brook — April
QUILL GORDON (size 14). HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). NJ trout opener.
Pequest River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). NJ trout opener — heavy stockings from Pequest Hatchery.
Paulinskill River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). NJ trout opener.
Rockaway River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). NJ trout opener.
Ramapo River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). NJ trout opener.
Wanaque River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). NJ trout opener.
Black River (Lamington River) — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). NJ trout opener.
Pequannock River — April
HENDRICKSON late month. BWOs. Caddis (size 14-16). NJ trout opener.
Deschutes River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14). Caddis beginning. Redsides feeding heavily before salmonfly madness.
McKenzie River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs continue. Caddis beginning (size 14-16). Watch for runoff starting late month.
Metolius River — April
March Browns (size 12-14) peak. BWOs (size 18-20). Caddis starting in lower river.
North Umpqua River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs continue. Caddis starting. Trout season dialing in.
Rogue River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs. Caddis starting. Spring chinook beginning to enter the river.
Williamson River — April
BWOs continue. Caddis starting (size 14-16). PMDs late month. Browns aggressive pre-runoff.
Crooked River — April
BWOs continue. Caddis beginning (size 14-16). PMDs starting late month. Tailwater stable.
Fall River — April
BWOs continue. PMDs starting late month (size 14-16). Spring sight-fishing for selective trout.
Sandy River — April
March Browns (size 12-14) late month. BWOs. Caddis starting. Steelhead fading.
Clackamas River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs. Caddis starting. Spring chinook entering.
Grande Ronde River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs. Caddis starting. Pre-runoff window.
Wallowa River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs. Caddis starting. Pre-runoff window.
John Day River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs. Caddis starting. Pre-runoff window — float trips beginning.
Sprague River — April
BWOs continue. Caddis starting (size 14-16). PMDs late month.
Wood River — April
BWOs continue. PMDs starting late month (size 14-16). Caddis beginning.
Hosmer Lake — April
Ice-out beginning late month. Midges and chironomids first activity. Gear up for opening day.
Yakima River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14). Caddis beginning. Skwala tapering. Pre-runoff trout aggressive.
Wenatchee River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs continue. Caddis starting (size 14-16). Watch for runoff late month.
Methow River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs continue. Caddis starting. Pre-runoff window — clear water before snowmelt.
Skagit River — April
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Steelhead fading. Bull trout active.
Skykomish River — April
BWOs continue. March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Caddis starting. Steelhead fading.
Stillaguamish River — April
BWOs continue. March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Caddis starting. Steelhead season closing for protection.
Sauk River — April
BWOs (size 18-20). March Browns late month. Steelhead fading. Bull trout pre-runoff active.
Hoh River — April
WINTER STEELHEAD fading. BWOs (size 18-20). Caddis starting. Sea-run cutthroat continuing.
Bogachiel River — April
WINTER STEELHEAD fading. BWOs (size 18-20). Caddis starting. Sea-run cutthroat continuing.
Queets River — April
WINTER STEELHEAD fading. BWOs. Caddis starting. Sea-run cutthroat continuing.
Sol Duc River — April
WINTER STEELHEAD fading. BWOs (size 18-20). Caddis starting. Sea-run cutthroat continuing.
Snoqualmie River — April
BWOs continue. March Browns (size 12-14) late month. Caddis starting.
Spokane River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs continue. Caddis starting. Pre-runoff window.
Little Spokane River — April
BWOs continue. Caddis starting (size 14-16). PMDs late month.
Naches River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs continue. Caddis starting. Pre-runoff window.
Tucannon River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs continue. Caddis starting. Pre-runoff window.
Hat Creek — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis starting (size 14-16). Best early-season month before crowds arrive.
Fall River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Spring-creek tactics — long leaders, 6X tippet.
Pit River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16). Wild browns active before crowds. Wading is technical — basalt boulders.
McCloud River — April
March Browns peak (size 12-14). BWOs (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Wild trout section opens to good early fishing.
Upper Sacramento River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). March Browns continue. Caddis beginning. Wild rainbows aggressive after runoff settles.
Trinity River — April
March Browns peak. BWOs continue. Caddis (size 14-16) beginning. Resident rainbow fishing improves.
Klamath River — April
BWOs continue. Caddis beginning. Spring runoff possible. Verify current closures before fishing.
Feather River Low Flow Channel — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Best pre-summer month — channel runs cool while Sacramento Valley heats up.
Truckee River — April
March Browns peak (size 12-14). BWOs continue. Caddis beginning. Pre-runoff window — catch it before snowmelt.
Little Truckee River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Tailwater stays clear when Truckee mainstem runs off.
East Walker River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Best early-season month for trophy browns on the East Walker.
West Walker River — April
BWOs continue. Caddis beginning. Watch CFS — runoff can spike fast on this small Sierra stream.
Lee Vining Creek — April
Limited access — Tioga Pass typically closed. Lower-elevation reaches may begin to fish on warm afternoons.
Owens River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Wild rainbows feeding heavily before summer crowds arrive.
Hot Creek — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning (size 16-18). Best early-season month before crowds arrive.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — April
Limited access. Lower roadside sections may begin to fish. Higher reaches still inaccessible.
Kings River — April
Limited access — verify which sections of the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway are open. Lower reaches may begin to fish.
Kern River — April
BWOs continue. Caddis beginning. Watch CFS — Kern can run high during snowmelt.
Russian River — April
Steelhead season closing. Trout fishing limited — most of the Russian is too warm by late spring.
Au Sable River — April
OPENER — last Saturday of April (2026: April 25). HENDRICKSONS arriving (size 14) afternoons 2-5pm — the first major mayfly of the Michigan season. BWOs (size 18-22) on overcast days.
Au Sable North Branch — April
OPENER late month. HENDRICKSONS arriving (size 14) afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22) on overcast days. Tight, alder-canopied water — short rods help.
Au Sable South Branch — April
OPENER late month. HENDRICKSONS (size 14) afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22) on overcast days. Chase Bridge area is the classic put-in.
Pere Marquette River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD continues. Trout opener last Saturday of April brings BWOs (size 18-20) and HENDRICKSONS (size 14) afternoons. Two fisheries overlapping.
Manistee River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD continues. Trout opener last Saturday of April in upper river — Wellston area. HENDRICKSONS (size 14) and BWOs (size 18-22).
Muskegon River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD strong. Trout fishing picking up below Croton — BWOs (size 18-20). Tailwater stays cold and clear when freestones blow out.
Jordan River — April
OPENER late month. HENDRICKSONS (size 14) afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22). Tight, log-choked water — short rods, accurate casts.
Boardman River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD continues. Trout opener last Saturday of April. BWOs (size 18-20). Verify post-dam-removal section regs before fishing.
Betsie River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD continues. Trout opener last Saturday of April in upper river above Thompsonville. BWOs (size 18-20).
Pine River — April
OPENER late month. HENDRICKSONS (size 14) afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22). Manistee NF backcountry water — technical, beautiful.
Pigeon River — April
OPENER late month. HENDRICKSONS (size 14) afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22). Pigeon River Country wilderness feel — small water, native brookies.
Sturgeon River — April
OPENER late month. BWOs (size 18-22). Caddis (#14-16) building. Wild brookies in upper reaches; rainbows in the lower stretches.
Black River — April
OPENER late month. BWOs (size 18-22). Caddis (#14-16) building. Quiet northern Michigan freestone — less pressured than Au Sable.
Two-Hearted River — April
OPENER late month if access roads are passable. BWOs (size 18-22). Caddis (#14-16) building. Remote wilderness brook trout fishing.
Fox River — April
OPENER late month if access is open. BWOs (size 18-22). Caddis (#14-16) building. The river Hemingway actually fished — beginner-friendly UP brook trout water.
Timber Coulee Creek — April
BWO season (size 18-22) — best month before opener. HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month afternoons 2-5pm. Pre-opener catch-and-release on early-season Driftless waters.
West Fork Kickapoo River — April
BWO season (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month afternoons. Pre-opener C&R waters fishing well.
Kickapoo River — April
BWO season (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month. Mainstem Kickapoo can be off-color in heavy spring rains — check gauge.
Black Earth Creek — April
BWO season (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) late month afternoons. Pre-opener C&R fishing.
Mt. Vernon Creek — April
BWO season (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) late month. Small-stream pre-opener C&R.
Elk Creek — April
BWO season (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) late month afternoons. Pre-opener C&R waters fishing well — less pressured than Vernon County.
Blue River — April
BWO season (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) late month. Pre-opener ERW C&R fishing.
Seas Branch — April
BWO season (size 18-22) on overcast days. HENDRICKSONS (size 14) late month. Pre-opener brook trout fishing on C&R reaches.
Tomorrow River — April
BWOs (size 18-22) on cloudy days. HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month. Pre-opener C&R on some waters — verify WDNR.
Wolf River — April
BWOs (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month. Pre-opener C&R waters — verify WDNR. State water above Hwy M only; below Hwy M is Menominee tribal water requiring tribal permit.
Bois Brule River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD at peak — fresh chrome from Lake Superior. Indicator nymphing prime time. BWOs (size 18-22) on cloudy days. Mays Ledges still closed.
Namekagon River — April
BWOs (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month afternoons. Pre-opener C&R on some waters — verify WDNR.
White River — April
BWOs (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month. Pre-opener C&R on some waters — verify WDNR. Cool spring-fed flows.
Prairie River — April
BWOs (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month. Pre-opener C&R on some waters — verify WDNR.
Oconto River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD at peak. BWOs (size 18-22). Indicator nymphing on lower river. Pre-opener C&R on some waters — verify WDNR.
Root River — April
OPENER second Saturday in April (2026: April 11). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) at peak afternoons 2-5pm — defining opener-week hatch on SE MN Driftless. BWOs (size 18-22) on cloudy days. Mainstem may run high in spring rains.
South Branch Root River — April
OPENER second Saturday in April (2026: April 11). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) at peak afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22) on cloudy days. Limestone spring-creek flows stable.
North Branch Root River — April
OPENER second Saturday in April (2026: April 11). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) at peak afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22). Small cold limestone spring creek — temps stable.
Whitewater River — April
OPENER second Saturday in April (2026: April 11) outside park. Inside park: year-round C&R continues. HENDRICKSONS (size 14) at peak afternoons. BWOs.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — April
OPENER second Saturday in April (2026: April 11). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) at peak afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22). Artificials only + 12-16" SLOT — fish in slot must be released.
North Fork Whitewater River — April
OPENER second Saturday in April (2026: April 11). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22) on cloudy days.
Trout Run Creek — April
OPENER second Saturday in April (2026: April 11). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) at peak afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22). ARTIFICIALS ONLY + 12-16" SLOT in effect — fish in slot must be released.
Rush Creek — April
OPENER second Saturday in April (2026: April 11). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22) on cloudy days.
Straight River — April
OPENER second Saturday in April (2026: April 11). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) at peak afternoons. BWOs (size 18-22). Medium Driftless water — pre-opener high flows possible.
Knife River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD at peak — fresh chrome from Lake Superior. Indicator nymphing prime time. BWOs (size 18-22). Brook trout opener above falls second Saturday in April.
Baptism River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD at peak. BWOs (size 18-22). Brook trout opener above falls second Saturday in April. Tettegouche State Park access.
Cascade River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD at peak. BWOs (size 18-22). Brook trout opener above falls second Saturday in April. Cascade River State Park access.
Temperance River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD at peak. BWOs (size 18-22). Brook trout opener above falls second Saturday in April. Temperance River State Park access.
Brule River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD at peak. BWOs (size 18-22). Brook trout opener above falls second Saturday in April.
Poplar River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD at peak. BWOs (size 18-22). Brook trout opener above falls second Saturday in April. Lutsen.
Upper Iowa River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month afternoons 2-5pm — first major mayfly of the Iowa season.
Yellow River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month afternoons 2-5pm.
Volga River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month afternoons.
Turkey River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) late month afternoons.
Bloody Run Creek — April
BWOs strong (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month afternoons. C&R / artificials only.
Paint Creek — April
BWOs strong (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month.
Bear Creek — April
BWOs strong (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month afternoons 2-5pm.
North Fork Maquoketa River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month.
Waterloo Creek — April
BWOs strong (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month afternoons. C&R / artificials only.
French Creek — April
BWOs strong (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month afternoons.
Village Creek — April
BWOs strong (size 18-22). HENDRICKSONS (size 14) arriving late month afternoons.
White River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) beginning. Midges. Scuds. Watch generation schedule — heavy spring rains can drive heavy releases.
North Fork River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) beginning. Midges. Scuds. Watch generation schedule.
Little Red River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) beginning. Midges. Scuds. Watch generation schedule closely.
Spring River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) beginning. Midges. Scuds.
Crooked Creek — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) beginning. Midges. Stocked rainbows active.
Chagrin River — April
STEELHEAD spring run at peak. BWOs (size 18-20) on cloudy days. Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month. Resident trout activity returning.
Grand River — April
STEELHEAD spring run at peak — many Ohio anglers consider the Grand the best when right. BWOs continuing. Caddis starting.
Rocky River — April
STEELHEAD spring run at peak. BWOs on cloudy days. Caddis starting late month.
Vermilion River — April
STEELHEAD spring run at peak. BWOs continuing. Caddis starting.
Conneaut Creek — April
STEELHEAD spring run at peak. BWOs continuing. Caddis starting.
Cuyahoga River — April
STEELHEAD spring run at peak. BWOs continuing. Caddis starting.
Ashtabula River — April
STEELHEAD spring run at peak. BWOs continuing. Caddis starting.
Mad River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Midges. Spring stocking arrives.
Big Darby Creek — April
Smallmouth spawning. Streamers, leeches. Caddis hatching.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Midges. Peak stocking — fresh trout active.
Current River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Midges. Excellent month — water clear and flows stable.
Jacks Fork River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Midges.
Eleven Point River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Midges. Spring-fed flows stable.
North Fork of White River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Midges. Excellent spring fishing.
Huzzah Creek — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Midges. Peak stocking — fresh trout active.
Gasconade River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Midges. Peak stocking month.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Little Black Caddis (size 16-18) beginning — important early caddis. Sulphurs starting late month. Peak stocking and prime conditions.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). LITTLE BLACK CADDIS (size 16-18) — the critical early caddis emergence on the Chatooga. Match this hatch precisely.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Little Black Caddis (size 16-18) beginning. Sulphurs starting late month. GA DNR spring stocking boosts numbers.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Little Black Caddis (size 16-18) beginning. Sulphurs starting late month. Standard regs return after artificial-only window closes.
Soque River — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Little Black Caddis (size 16-18) beginning. Sulphurs starting late month. Peak conditions on accessible stretches.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — April
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Little Black Caddis (size 16-18) beginning. Sulphurs starting late month. DH section near Shallowford Bridge — single-hook artificial only.
Kenai River — April
Rainbow trout season opens June 11; April is shoulder-season prep. Snowmelt starting; flows building toward 6,000+ CFS. ⚠️ 2026 King salmon FULL CLOSURE — early-run May 1 through June 19 closed.
Russian River — April
Pre-season. Sockeye opens June 11; rainbow fishery follows the salmon. River wadeable when ice clears.
Anchor River — April
Pre-season. Sea-run Dolly Varden and steelhead arrive later in the year.
Gulkana River — April
Pre-season. Snowmelt building. King salmon arrive June.
Situk River — April
SPRING STEELHEAD RUN BEGINNING. Late April through mid-May is peak. 8–12 lb wild fish on swung flies, egg patterns, intruders. Float 9-mile Bridge to Lower Landing (13.5 mi, 6–8 hours at 200–600 CFS). Verify road plowing before booking.
Naknek River — April
Pre-season. River navigable but too cold for productive fishing.
Spearfish Creek — April
Caddis (Elk Hair #14–16), BWO, Midges; spring peak activity
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — April
Caddis (#14–18), BWO, Midges
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — April
Caddis (#14–18), BWO, Midges
Spring Creek — April
Caddis, BWO, Midges; spring runoff can affect access
Whitewood Creek — April
Caddis (#14–18), BWO, Midges
Castle Creek — April
Caddis, BWO, Midges
Cumberland River Tailwater — April
Caddis peak, Sulphurs, midges. Best dry fly window — Elk Hair Caddis and Sulphur duns turn the river on.
Hatchery Creek — April
Small Caddis, Midges, Scuds, Soft Hackles. Spring activity picks up.
Green River Tailwater — April
BWO, Caddis, Midges. Best spring dry-fly window — match the hatch on cloudy days.
Barren River Tailwater — April
Midges, BWO (#18–20), small Nymphs. Spring dry-fly action picks up on cloudy days.
Rockcastle River — April
Caddis (#14–18), Sulphurs, Stoneflies. Trout stocking begins in earnest — best spring dry-fly fishing.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — April
Small Caddis, BWO, Midges. C&R season ends April 1 — last weeks have stacked fish.
Rock Creek — April
Spring Black Stoneflies (#14, early April), Caddis (#14–18, Elk Hair/Parachute), BWO. Stocking begins — best spring fishing.
Truckee River — April
Caddis (#14–16), BWO, Midges; cutthroat run ends, resident trout active
East Walker River — April
Caddis (#14–16), BWO, Midges; spring peak
West Walker River — April
Caddis (#14–16), BWO; runoff may affect access
East Fork Carson River — April
Caddis (#14–16), BWO; spring runoff may affect access
Lamoille Creek — April
BWO, Caddis (#14–16); runoff begins, flows rise
South Fork Humboldt River — April
Caddis, BWO; spring flows can be variable
Guadalupe River — April
Caddis (#14–16), Light Cahill (#14–16); transition to warmwater patterns
Llano River — April
Poppers, Deer Hair Ants (#14), EP Minnows; pre-spawn feeding
Blanco River — April
Poppers, Foam Beetles; carp: Backstabber, Mop Flies (#8–10); sight-fishing starts
Pedernales River — April
Poppers; Crayfish patterns; Clouser Minnows; best spring fishing
Frio River — April
Poppers; Clouser Minnows for Guadalupe bass; spring clarity is exceptional
South Llano River — April
Poppers; Crayfish patterns; Clouser Minnows; pre-spawn bass
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — April
BWO; Caddis (#14–16); Sulfurs starting; Elk Hair Caddis on top
Cahaba River — April
Caddis (#14–16); Poppers; Deer Hair Ants; topwater bass starting
Little River Canyon — April
Caddis (#14–16); Poppers; Elk Hair Caddis; bass pre-spawn
Tallapoosa River — April
Caddis (#14–16); Midges; Poppers for bass starting; stripers active
Paint Rock River — April
Caddis (#14–16); Poppers; Elk Hair Caddis; bass pre-spawn
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — April
Caddis (#14–16); Poppers; Elk Hair Caddis; smallmouth spawning
Blue River — April
BWO; Caddis (#14–16); Sulfurs starting (#16–18); Elk Hair Caddis on top
Mountain Fork River — April
BWO; Caddis dominant (#14–16); Sulfurs starting; Elk Hair Caddis on top
Illinois River — April
Caddis (#14–16); Poppers starting; Crayfish; smallmouth spawning in gravel runs
Baron Fork — April
Caddis (#14–16); Poppers starting; Crayfish; smallmouth spawning on gravel
Glover River — April
Caddis (#14–16); Poppers starting; spring floats with adequate water
Kiamichi River — April
Caddis (#14–16); Poppers starting; Clouser Minnows; bass spawning
May Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — May
BWOs continue. Caddis (size 16-18) becoming active at dusk (Elk Hair Caddis). PMDs starting (size 16-18). Peak early-season variety.
Arkansas River — May
RUNOFF SEASON STARTING — CFS rising rapidly toward unfishable levels. Caddis (size 14-16) beginning heavy emergence. Check gauge every day.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — May
Caddis (size 14-16) continuing into early May. PMDs starting (size 16-18). Tricos possible in slower sections. Tailwater stability means flows stay fishable while the upper Arkansas is in full runoff.
Blue River — May
BWOs active. Caddis beginning (size 14-16). TAILWATER ADVANTAGE — while Arkansas and South Platte blow out, Blue River flows stay fishable. Mysis year-round.
Bear Creek — May
RUNOFF RISK — small stream, very sensitive to snowmelt. CFS can spike fast and stay unfishable for weeks. Check gauge every single time.
Colorado River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — CFS rising toward unfishable wading levels. Float fishing possible at higher flows. Check back in late June or July.
Frying Pan River — May
BWOs and Caddis both emerging (size 14-16). PMDs starting (size 16-18). TAILWATER ADVANTAGE — while South Platte and Arkansas blow out, Frying Pan stays fishable and at its best.
Roaring Fork River — May
RUNOFF STARTING — CFS rising on upper sections. Lower near Glenwood may hold longer. Caddis (size 14-16) active when flows allow. Check gauge before driving from Denver.
Cache la Poudre River — May
RUNOFF RISK — CFS rising from Mummy Range snowmelt. Caddis (size 14-16) and Golden Stoneflies (size 8-12) active during flow windows. Below Joe Wright Reservoir section more stable.
Taylor River — May
BWOs and PMDs starting (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) possible. TAILWATER ADVANTAGE — Taylor stays fishable through runoff season when Gunnison and Arkansas are blown.
Gunnison River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — heavy drainage from Elk Mountains and Blue Mesa. Caddis emerging during lower windows. The Gorge section may be blown out. Float anglers only in high water.
Eagle River — May
RUNOFF RISK — CFS rising rapidly from Vail Pass snowmelt. Caddis (size 14-16) and stoneflies active during lower flow windows. Check the Minturn gauge before making the I-70 drive.
Yampa River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — CFS rising rapidly. Yampa can run very high. Caddis hatching during flow windows. Salmonfly (Pteronarcys californica, size 4-8) beginning late May — one of the most exciting hatches in Colorado.
Rio Grande — May
RUNOFF SEASON — CFS rising rapidly. Rio Grande headwaters drain enormous San Juan Mountains snowpack — flows can exceed 3,000 CFS. Check gauge before the long drive from Denver.
Crystal River — May
RUNOFF RISK — small crystal-clear stream becomes high and turbid with heavy snowmelt from Elk Mountains. Check Redstone gauge before driving through Carbondale on Hwy 133.
Dolores River — May
BWOs and Caddis both active. TAILWATER ADVANTAGE — Dolores stays fishable during runoff season when other Southwest Colorado rivers are blown. McPhee releases are consistent.
North Platte River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — CFS rising from North Park and Rawah Wilderness snowpack. Caddis and stoneflies active during windows. Northgate Canyon may be inaccessible — check road conditions off CO-127.
Slate River — May
HEAVY RUNOFF — Crested Butte receives some of the highest snowpack in Colorado. Slate runs high and turbid most of May. Check back in late June. Patience pays off.
San Juan River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Weminuche Wilderness snowpack is substantial. CFS rising rapidly. Pagosa Riverwalk may hold longer than upper forks. Check flows before the drive from Durango.
Animas River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — heavy San Juan snowpack drainage. Animas can run very high and turbid. Downtown Durango section may stay lower longest. Check gauge before driving — runoff can be dramatic.
East River — May
HEAVY RUNOFF — Crested Butte and Gothic receive extreme snowpack. East River runs high and turbid from late April through much of May. Wait for July. Check Almont gauge.
Fraser River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — CFS rising fast. Windy Gap and Moffat Tunnel diversion operations may affect both gauge readings and actual river levels. Check the river visually if possible before wading.
Dream Stream — May
RUNOFF RISK — Tarryall and Fourmile Creek snowmelt affects flows. Spinney and Eleven Mile reservoirs buffer variability somewhat. PMDs starting (size 16-18) on warm days. Check Hartsel gauge before making the drive.
Gore Creek — May
RUNOFF RISK — CFS rising fast from Vail Pass drainage. Caddis (size 14-16) and Golden Stonefly active during flow windows. Check gauge before making the I-70 drive.
Cheesman Canyon — May
RUNOFF RISK — South Park and Cheesman Reservoir drainage can spike flows. Some years the canyon stays fishable longer than other SP sections. Verify before making the hike.
Williams Fork River — May
BWOs and Caddis both active. TAILWATER ADVANTAGE — Williams Fork stays fishable when surrounding Grand County rivers blow out. Check CPW access maps — some sections require verification.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — May
RUNOFF SEASON — CFS rising rapidly from extensive Colorado River basin snowpack. Float fishing possible at higher flows with experienced guides. Check gauge every day. Do not wade at high water on this river.
Conejos River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — San Juan Mountains snowmelt pushes flows high. Platoro Reservoir area may fish earlier than lower sections. Check Mogote gauge before the 4+ hour drive from Denver.
San Miguel River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Heavy San Juan and Telluride-area snowpack. CFS rising. Lower canyon sections near Naturita may clear faster than upper. Golden Stonefly (size 8-12) when flows settle.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Lake Fork CFS rising from snowmelt. Flows can be high and turbid. Check Gateview gauge before making the long drive. Lower sections near Gateview may clear faster.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — May
BWOs continue (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Reservoir releases stable — tailwater advantage while WY freestones run high with snowmelt. Rainbow post-spawn feeding.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — May
BWOs continue (size 18-20). Midges. Tailwater stability while freestones blow out. Wind is constant — heavy rods and streamers often work better than dries.
Snake River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Tetons snowmelt pushes flows toward unfishable. Salmonfly hatch (size 4-6) possible in lower river late May during peak flows. Plan for July onward.
Green River — Fontenelle — May
BWOs continue. Caddis (size 14-16) beginning. Midges. Reservoir releases remain stable — major advantage during Wyoming runoff season.
Shoshone River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Buffalo Bill Reservoir partially regulates flow but Shoshone still rises. Caddis (size 14-16) hatching when flows allow. Check gauge daily.
Bighorn River — May
BWOs continue (size 18-20). PMDs starting late month (size 16-18). Midges. Reservoir releases stable — major advantage during Wyoming runoff.
Laramie River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — flows often unfishable. Some lower agricultural sections may stay manageable. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow. Plan for July.
New Fork River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Wind Range and Wyoming Range snowmelt pushes flows toward unfishable. Plan for July onward. Late month may have brief windows.
Hoback River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — flows usually unfishable. Salmonflies (size 4-6) hatching in canyon during peak flows late month. Plan for late July.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — May
BWOs at peak (size 18-20) — best dry fly month before runoff peaks. RUNOFF SEASON building — Beartooth snowmelt pushes flows hard. Plan around the gauge for late-May fishing windows.
Salt River — May
BWOs at peak (size 18-20) — best dry fly month before runoff. RUNOFF SEASON building late month — Wyoming Range snowmelt pushes flows. Plan around the gauge for fishing windows.
Green River — May
BWOs continue (size 18-20). Midges. Releases beginning to climb for downstream water demand — flows can spike to 3,000+ CFS, always check before wading. Section A through Little Hole still the prime wade water.
Provo River (Middle) — May
BWOs continue. Caddis (size 14-18) emerging in evenings. PMDs starting late month (size 16-18). Releases beginning to climb — flows often 300–600 CFS. Wading more challenging, but the trout density (~3,500/mile) remains.
Weber River — May
MOTHER'S DAY CADDIS at peak (size 14-18) — heavy mid-day clouds of caddis through Weber Canyon. Best dry-fly month of the year on the Weber. BWOs continuing. Spotted Sedge (size 14-16) heavy. Crowds light despite world-class hatch.
Ogden River — May
SALMONFLIES (size 6-10) hatching late month — a brief but exciting window in Ogden Canyon. BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 12-14) heavy. PMDs starting (size 12-16). Best dry-fly variety month.
Strawberry River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — flows often unfishable for wading in the WMA section. BWOs (size 18-20) early month. Plan for late June onward. Strawberry Reservoir releases compound with natural runoff.
Logan River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Bear River Range snowmelt pushes flows hard through Logan Canyon. BWOs (size 18-20) early month. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow. Plan for late June onward.
Bear River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — large freestone river runs hard with snowmelt, often unfishable for wading. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow late month. Float fishing possible at higher flows.
Beaver River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — snowmelt blows out the river through April–May. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow late month. Plan for July onward for prime conditions.
Fremont River — May
BWOs continuing (size 18-20). SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) and Golden Stones (size 6-8) building late month — surprising stonefly hatches for a small southern UT stream. Caddis (size 14-16) emerging. PMDs (size 16-18) starting.
East Fork Sevier River — May
BWOs continuing (size 18-20). Runoff settling — flows often around 150–250 CFS in May (well within fishable range). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. PMDs (size 16-18) building late month.
Oak Creek — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in evenings — best dry fly action of the spring. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. BWOs on cloudy days. Memorial Day weekend brings big crowds.
West Fork Oak Creek — May
BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) emerging — heaviest dry fly action of the year. PMDs starting late month (size 16-18). Spring-fed flows stay cool. Weekend trail crowds heavy.
East Fork Black River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — White Mountains snowmelt drives flows. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow late month. Plan for late June onward for prime conditions.
West Fork Black River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — snowmelt drives flows hard through this small drainage. Plan for late June onward.
North Fork White River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — White Mountains snowmelt drives flows. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow. Tribal stocking program ramping up. Plan for late June onward for prime conditions.
Canyon Creek — May
BWOs continuing (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. PMDs (size 16-18) building late month. Spring-fed inputs keep upper canyon cooler than expected.
Tonto Creek — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in evenings — best dry fly action of the spring. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. BWOs on cloudy days. Memorial Day weekend brings big crowds at Kohls Ranch and Natural Bridge.
Silver Creek — May
BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) emerging. PMDs (size 16-18) starting late month. Cool spring water keeps Silver Creek productive when AZ freestones run high.
East Clear Creek — May
BWOs continuing. Runoff settling late month. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. PMDs (size 16-18) building. Spring-fed pools clearing.
Little Colorado River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — White Mountains snowmelt pushes flows. BWOs (size 18-20) early month. Caddis starting late month when flows allow. Plan for late June onward for prime conditions.
Chevelon Creek — May
BWOs continuing. Runoff settling. Caddis (size 14-16) starting when flows allow. Upper perennial canyon sections clearing.
San Juan River — May
BWOs continue (size 20-22). PMDs starting late month (size 18-20). Midges. Long rod, light tippet, technical sight-fishing season opening. Reservoir releases stable.
Rio Grande — May
RUNOFF SEASON usually peaks early/mid May. Lower stretches near Embudo may stay manageable. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow. Plan for late June onward.
Rio Chama — May
RUNOFF can affect lower river — El Vado releases plus snowmelt below the dam. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow. PMDs starting late month (size 16-18).
Cimarron River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Sangre de Cristo snowmelt pushes flows high, but Cimarron Canyon's small drainage means runoff is brief. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow.
Pecos River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Sangre de Cristo snowmelt pushes flows. Lower river may stay manageable. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow. Plan for late June onward.
Brazos River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Brazos Box runs hard with Tusas Mountains snowmelt. Usually unfishable. Plan for July onward.
Red River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Sangre de Cristo snowmelt pushes flows. Smaller drainage means short runoff. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow.
Jemez River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Jemez Mountains snowmelt pushes flows. Smaller drainage means brief runoff. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow.
Gila River — May
BWOs winding down (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) at peak — best dry fly action of the spring. Limited snowmelt at this latitude means runoff is short and mild compared to northern NM. Watch monsoon-season afternoon thunderstorms starting late month.
Henry's Fork — May
BWOs continue (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Salmonfly possible in lower river late month. Flows still manageable thanks to spring inputs and reservoir regulation.
South Fork Snake River — May
BWOs continue. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Skwalas continuing. Reservoir releases beginning to climb — flows often pushing toward 6,000 CFS by late month for irrigation.
Silver Creek — May
OPENS Memorial Day weekend. Callibaetis (size 14-16), PMDs (size 18-20), midges. Early season fish are willing — but they get smarter every day. Be the first one on the water on opening weekend.
Big Wood River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Big Wood runs hard with snowmelt, often unfishable for wading. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow. Plan for July onward.
South Fork Boise River — May
BWOs continue. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Anderson Ranch releases increase for irrigation — flows often climb to 1,500+ CFS by late month. Float fishing productive at higher releases.
Salmon River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Sawtooth and high-country snowmelt pushes flows toward unfishable. BWOs (size 18-20) early month before peak. Plan for July onward.
Clearwater River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Clearwater drainage runoff pushes flows high. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow. Plan for resident trout fishing in late June onward.
Lochsa River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Bitterroot snowmelt pushes flows hard. Most stretches re-open Memorial Day weekend but flows often unfishable. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow late month.
Teton River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Teton Range snowmelt pushes flows. Smaller drainage means brief runoff. Caddis (size 14-16) starting strong when flows allow. PMDs (size 16-18) late month.
Fall River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Yellowstone Plateau snowmelt pushes flows hard. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow late month. Plan for July onward.
St. Joe River — May
Season typically opens Memorial Day weekend — but RUNOFF SEASON pushes flows hard. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow late month. Plan for late June.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Lochsa and Selway combined drainages push flows hard. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow. Plan for late June onward.
Selway River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness snowmelt pushes flows hard. SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) starting late month when flows allow — iconic Selway hatch building. Most stretches re-open Memorial Day weekend but flows often unfishable.
Boise River — May
BWOs continue. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy and emerging in evenings. Lucky Peak releases increase for irrigation — flows often climb to 1,500+ CFS by late month. Wading more challenging but float fishing through the Greenbelt productive.
Madison River — May
Mother's Day CADDIS (size 14-16) at peak — heavy mid-day clouds of caddis on the lower Madison. RUNOFF SEASON building late month — flows climb fast as the Madison Valley snowmelts. BWOs continuing.
Missouri River — May
Mother's Day CADDIS (size 14-16) at peak — heavy emergence between Craig and Cascade. BWOs continuing. PMDs (size 16-18) starting late month. Reservoir releases stable. The Missouri is at its busiest.
Yellowstone River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — flows often unfishable. BWOs early month before peak. Mother's Day Caddis (size 14-16) lower river when flows allow. Plan for July onward.
Big Hole River — May
EARLY-SEASON ARCTIC GRAYLING WINDOW — best month for native fluvial grayling before water warms. Salmonflies (size 4-6) starting late month when flows allow. RUNOFF SEASON peaks mid-month — plan around the gauge.
Bitterroot River — May
RUNOFF SEASON building — Bitterroot Range snowmelt pushes flows hard. BWOs and Caddis (size 14-16) early month before peak. Plan for late June onward.
Clark Fork River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Clark Fork drainage runoff pushes flows hard. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow. Plan for late June onward. Big water — float trips with guides only at peak flows.
Blackfoot River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Continental Divide snowmelt pushes flows hard. SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) starting late month when flows allow. Plan for late June onward.
Gallatin River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Yellowstone Plateau and Madison Range snowmelt pushes flows. BWOs (size 18-20) early month. Plan for July onward — Highway 191 access easy but flows often unfishable.
Flathead River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Bob Marshall and Glacier snowmelt pushes flows hard, often unfishable. Plan for late June onward. Spectacular but challenging.
Smith River — May
FLOAT SEASON OPENING (typically early May for permitted floats). SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) at peak in the canyon late month — the iconic Smith River hatch. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis (size 14-16). Bring 3-4 days of supplies.
Rock Creek — May
SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) STARTING late month — Rock Creek's iconic hatch begins as flows recede. RUNOFF SEASON peaks mid-month then drops fast. Time it right and you hit one of the most reliable Salmonfly windows in MT.
Stillwater River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Beartooth and Absaroka snowmelt pushes flows hard. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow late month. Plan for July onward.
Boulder River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Absaroka-Beartooth snowmelt pushes flows hard. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow late month. Small-drainage runoff is brief.
Sun River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Bob Marshall snowmelt pushes flows hard. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows allow. Plan for July onward in the upper river.
Ruby River — May
BWOs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting. Reservoir releases beginning to ramp up for irrigation — flows become unpredictable through summer. Watch the gauge.
Rapidan River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting to peak. March Browns (size 12) on bigger pools. Yellow Sally (size 16). Light Cahill (size 14-16) late month. Best dry-fly variety month.
South River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak — best dry-fly month on the South. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Light Cahill late month. Stocking continues — fresh fish weekly.
Jackson River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak — the Jackson's signature hatch. Caddis (size 14-16). BWOs continuing on cool mornings. Best dry-fly month — selective wild trout sipping in flat water.
North Fork Shenandoah River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. March Brown (size 12). Light Cahill (size 14-16) late month. Smallmouth waking up in lower river.
Bullpasture River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. March Brown (size 12). Yellow Sally (size 16). Light Cahill (size 14-16). Best dry-fly month — selective wild brown trout sipping in pools.
Maury River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. March Brown (size 12). Yellow Sally (size 16). Light Cahill (size 14-16). Best dry-fly month — wild trout in dramatic gorge pools.
Rose River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting. March Brown (size 12). Yellow Sally (size 16). Light Cahill (size 14-16) late month. Brookies opportunistic — small water, small flies.
Conway River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18). March Brown (size 12). Yellow Sally (size 16). Light Cahill (size 14-16) late month. Brookies opportunistic.
Passage Creek — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. March Brown (size 12). Yellow Sally (size 16). Light Cahill (size 14-16). Best dry-fly month — selective wild browns sipping in flat pools.
Davidson River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak — Davidson's signature hatch. Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Light Cahill (size 14-16) late.
Watauga River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. Yellow Sally (size 14-16). March Brown (size 12). Light Cahill late month. Best dry-fly month — wild trout active.
Nantahala River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak — Nantahala's primary hatch, runs heavy into July. Caddis evenings. BWOs on cool mornings. Whitewater starts — fish early or off-release days.
New River (North Carolina) — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) in trout headwaters. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Light Cahill late month. Smallmouth pre-spawn — Clousers and crayfish patterns.
Oconaluftee River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18). YELLOW SALLY (size 14-16) building toward peak — Oconaluftee has strong stonefly hatches. Light Cahill (size 14-16). March Brown (size 12).
French Broad River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Light Cahill late month. Best dry-fly month on the upper river.
Cataloochee Creek — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18). YELLOW SALLY (size 14-16) building — Cataloochee has classic Smokies stonefly hatches. March Brown (size 12). Light Cahill late month.
Linville River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. Yellow Sally (size 14-16). March Brown (size 12). Light Cahill (size 14-16). Best dry-fly month — wild rainbows and browns in dramatic gorge pools.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak — Watauga's signature hatch. Caddis evenings. BWOs on cool mornings. Best dry-fly month for selective wild fish.
Little River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18). YELLOW SALLY (size 14-16) building toward peak — Little River has exceptional Yellow Sally hatches. Light Cahill. March Brown (size 12).
Tellico River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. Yellow Sally (size 14-16). March Brown (size 12). Light Cahill (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Best dry-fly month — wild rainbows eager.
Cranberry River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. March Brown (size 12). Yellow Sally (size 16). Light Cahill (size 14-16). Best dry-fly month — wild brookies eager.
South Branch Potomac River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. GREEN DRAKES (size 8-10) on limestone sections — Smoke Hole has notable Green Drake emergence. March Brown (size 12). Light Cahill late.
Elk River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. March Brown (size 12). Yellow Sally (size 16). Light Cahill (size 14-16). Best dry-fly month — wild trout active.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. March Brown (size 12). Yellow Sally (size 16). Light Cahill (size 14-16). Best dry-fly month — native brookies eager and opportunistic.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. GREEN DRAKES (size 8-10) on limestone sections — Smoke Hole Canyon Green Drake emergence. March Brown (size 12). Light Cahill late.
Williams River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. March Brown (size 12). Yellow Sally (size 16). Light Cahill (size 14-16). Best dry-fly month — wild trout eager and opportunistic.
Greenbrier River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) at peak. GREEN DRAKES (size 8-10) on limestone sections — heavy emergence. March Brown (size 12). Light Cahill late month.
Beaverkill River — May
Hendrickson tail end. MARCH BROWN (size 12) and GREY FOX (size 14). Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis active. Best month for hatch variety.
Willowemoc Creek — May
Hendrickson tail end. MARCH BROWN (size 12) and GREY FOX (size 14). Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis active. Best month for hatch variety.
East Branch Delaware River — May
Hendrickson tail end. MARCH BROWN (size 12). SULPHURS (size 16-18) — excellent extended hatch in cold tailwater. Caddis evenings. Light Cahill late.
West Branch Delaware River — May
Hendrickson tail end. SULPHURS (size 16-18) building strong. Caddis evenings. March Brown (size 12). Light Cahill late month.
Esopus Creek — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12) and GREY FOX (size 14). Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis active throughout. Hendrickson tail end early month.
Schoharie Creek — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis active. Light Cahill late month. Prattsville section best access.
Neversink River — May
Hendrickson tail end. MARCH BROWN (size 12). Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis active. Light Cahill late.
Rondout Creek — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis very heavy. Light Cahill late month. Best dry-fly variety.
Ausable River (East Branch) — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) starting late month. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis active. Best variety month.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) starting late month. Sulphurs building. Caddis. Lake-run salmon tail end. Gorge sections excellent.
Saranac River — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). GREEN DRAKE starting late month. Sulphurs building. Caddis active. Best variety month on upper river.
Raquette River — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis active. Stoneflies. Upper river near Colton and Long Lake at its best.
Black River (upper) — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) starting late month. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis very heavy throughout.
Penns Creek — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). SULPHUR (size 16-18) building strong. Caddis active. GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) starting very late month — anglers begin staging on Penns.
Spring Creek — May
SULPHURS peak (size 16-18) — extended emergence in cold limestone. Caddis evenings. BWOs continuing. Great variety month.
Big Fishing Creek — May
SULPHUR (size 16-18) peak emergence. Caddis evenings. GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) starting very late month — Big Fishing mirrors Penns Creek timing.
Little Juniata River — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). SULPHUR (size 16-18) building strong. Caddis active. GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) starting late month.
Yellow Breeches Creek — May
SULPHUR peak (size 16-18) emergence — extended in limestone tailwater conditions. Caddis evenings. BWOs continuing.
Tulpehocken Creek — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) emergence. Caddis evenings. BWOs continuing. Tailwater hatches are muted but consistent.
Brodhead Creek — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis active. GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) very late month.
Bushkill Creek — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) emergence. Caddis evenings. Hendrickson tail end. Light Cahill (size 14) late month.
Loyalsock Creek — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). GOLDEN STONEFLY (size 10) — Loyalsock signature emergence. Caddis active throughout. Sulphurs starting late.
Pine Creek — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). GOLDEN STONEFLY (size 10). Caddis very heavy throughout. Sulphurs starting late month. GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) very late.
Kettle Creek — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). GOLDEN STONEFLY (size 10). Caddis very heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting late month.
Young Womans Creek — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Small Sulphurs (size 18). BWOs. Best month — flows still good, native brookies opportunistic on dries.
Battenkill River — May
Hendrickson tail end. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis (size 14-16) active. Light Cahill (size 14) late month. Selective wild browns.
White River — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis active throughout. Light Cahill late month.
Mad River — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). Caddis very heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Best variety month on this freestone.
Lamoille River — May
Hendrickson tail end. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis very heavy throughout. March Brown (size 12). Light Cahill late.
Winooski River — May
Caddis very heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. PMD (size 16) starting late month. Best variety month.
Dog River — May
CADDIS PEAK (size 14-16) — Dog River caddis are excellent. Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting. BWOs. Best dry-fly month.
Black River — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Caddis very heavy throughout. Light Cahill late.
West River — May
SULPHUR (size 16-18) peak — extended emergence in cold tailwater. Caddis evenings. BWOs continuing. Tailwater advantage when freestones blow.
Williams River — May
CADDIS PEAK (size 14-16). Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. BWOs. Light Cahill late month. Best variety.
Missisquoi River — May
Hendrickson tail end. Caddis very heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. March Brown (size 12). Native brookies in upper reaches active.
West Branch Penobscot — May
SMELT RUN — landlocked salmon focus, smelt streamers (Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Magog Smelt). HENDRICKSONS (size 12-14) building. Stoneflies hatching in gorge. Premier salmon month.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — May
SMELT RUN — landlocked salmon hammering smelt patterns (Grey Ghost, Black Ghost). HENDRICKSONS (size 12-14). The marquee Maine salmon month.
Kennebec River – The Forks — May
SMELT RUN driving spring salmon. MARCH BROWN (size 12). HENDRICKSONS (size 14). Caddis active. Watch release schedule.
Dead River — May
HENDRICKSON (size 14). Caddis active. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Stocked browns and brookies feeding.
Sandy River — May
Hendrickson tail end. CADDIS active. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. PMDs (size 16-18) starting.
Carrabassett River — May
Hendrickson tail end. CADDIS heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Wild brookies in upper Carrabassett Valley active.
Magalloway River — May
SMELT PEAK — landlocked salmon focus. HENDRICKSONS (size 14). Caddis starting. The marquee month.
Narraguagus River — May
FIRST SALTER RUN — sea-run brook trout pushing into freshwater. Caddis active. BWOs. Streamers and small attractor flies.
Rapid River — May
HENDRICKSON (size 14). Caddis starting. Wild brookies feeding hard after ice-out. Check Waterline (h2oline.com) for daily Middle Dam releases — 500–700 CFS is the sweet spot.
Roach River — May
SMELT RUN — wild landlocked salmon focus. HENDRICKSONS (size 14). Caddis starting. The marquee month.
Kennebago River — May
SMELT RUN — wild landlocked salmon focus. HENDRICKSONS (size 14). Smelt streamers. Marquee month.
Ellis River — May
Hendrickson tail end. Caddis active. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Light Cahill late month.
Swift River — May
Hendrickson tail end. Caddis active. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Snowmelt still high.
Saco River — May
MARCH BROWN (size 12). Caddis active. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Light Cahill late month.
Androscoggin River — May
Caddis active. Sulphurs starting. March Brown (size 12). Stoneflies. Watch CFS — wading limited above 1,500.
Pemigewasset River — May
Hendrickson tail end. MARCH BROWN. Caddis. Sulphurs building. Stocked browns and rainbows feeding.
Wild River — May
BWOs (size 18-20). Caddis starting. Wild native brookies feeding hard after ice-out.
Ammonoosuc River — May
Hendrickson tail end. Caddis active. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Light Cahill late month.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — May
SMELT RUN — landlocked salmon focus. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Stoneflies.
Smith River — May
Hendrickson tail end. Caddis active. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Light Cahill late month.
Cold River — May
Caddis active. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Stoneflies. Native brookies feeding in tight pools.
Deerfield River — May
Hendrickson tail end. CADDIS PEAK (size 14-16). March Browns. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Best dry-fly month — schedule around releases.
Swift River — May
SULPHURS (size 16-18) — the marquee Swift hatch begins. Caddis. BWOs. Best surface action of the year.
Westfield River — May
HENDRICKSON peak (size 12-14). MARCH BROWN (size 12). Caddis active. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building.
West Branch Westfield River — May
HENDRICKSON peak (size 12-14). Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Stoneflies in pocket water.
East Branch Westfield River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. MARCH BROWN. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Premier dry-fly month in the gorge.
Millers River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. MARCH BROWN. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Lower C&R fishes well.
Squannacook River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. PMDs starting.
Nissitissit River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Light Cahill late.
Cold River — May
Caddis active. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Stoneflies. Native brookies feeding.
Farmington River (MA Section) — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building.
Ware River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Wild brookies in upper tributaries active.
Farmington River — May
Hendrickson tail end. MARCH BROWN. CADDIS PEAK (size 14-16). Sulphurs (size 16-18) building.
Housatonic River — May
Hendrickson peak. MARCH BROWN. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Big-fish window opens.
Salmon River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. MARCH BROWN. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building.
Willimantic River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Wild browns and brookies active.
Natchaug River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Pool-riffle dry-fly water.
Shepaug River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building.
Mad River — May
Hendrickson (size 14). Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Stocked trout dominate.
Bantam River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Best Bantam window.
Blackledge River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building.
Jeremy River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Wild brookies and browns active.
Still River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Wild brookies active in hemlock-shaded reaches.
Gunpowder Falls — May
SULPHUR PEAK BEGINS (size 16-18) — the marquee Gunpowder hatch. Hendrickson tail end. Caddis evenings.
Little Gunpowder Falls — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Stocked rainbows and browns active.
Big Hunting Creek — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Wild browns and brookies actively rising.
Savage River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. SULPHURS (size 16-18) building. Premier dry-fly window opens.
North Branch Potomac River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. SULPHURS (size 16-18) building. Premier dry-fly window opens.
Youghiogheny River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Stoneflies in pocket water.
Casselman River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Wild brookies in upper reaches active.
Antietam Creek — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Stocked browns and rainbows active.
Catoctin Creek — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building.
Patuxent River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building.
Monocacy River — May
Hendrickson peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Stocked trout still active before water warms.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. MARCH BROWN. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Wild trout in gorge active.
Musconetcong River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building. Wild and stocked browns active.
Big Flat Brook — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Wild browns and brookies active.
Pequest River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Stocked rainbows, browns, brookies active.
Paulinskill River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Stocked trout active.
Rockaway River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building.
Ramapo River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Stocked trout active.
Wanaque River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18) building.
Black River (Lamington River) — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Wild browns in Hacklebarney gorge active.
Pequannock River — May
HENDRICKSON peak. Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Stocked and wild trout active.
Deschutes River — May
SALMONFLY (size 4-6) BEGINNING late month — the iconic Deschutes hatch. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis (size 14-16). PMDs starting.
McKenzie River — May
SALMONFLY (size 6-8) on McKenzie — smaller emergence than Deschutes but still significant. Golden Stones. Caddis active. May runoff possible.
Metolius River — May
GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) — the Metolius hatch, technical and selective. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis. March Browns continue.
North Umpqua River — May
SALMONFLY (size 6-8) on lower river. Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Trout aggressive.
Rogue River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8) on upper Rogue. Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Spring chinook in lower river.
Williamson River — May
PMDs (size 14-16) emerging. Caddis. BWOs. Williamson opening up — sight-fishing prime time.
Crooked River — May
PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis. BWOs. Stonefly nymphs effective. Heavy fish populations of small redbands.
Fall River — May
PMDs (size 14-16) emerging. BWOs. Caddis. Fall River opening up — best spring month.
Sandy River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8) on Sandy. Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Spring chinook entering.
Clackamas River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8) on Clackamas. Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting.
Grande Ronde River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8) beginning. Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Runoff peaking.
Wallowa River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8). Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Heavy runoff possible.
John Day River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8). Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Float season prime — highest flows.
Sprague River — May
PMDs (size 14-16) emerging. Caddis. BWOs. Sprague opening up.
Wood River — May
PMDs (size 14-16) emerging. Caddis. BWOs. Spring creek opening up — best month begins.
Hosmer Lake — May
CHIRONOMIDS (size 14-18) at peak post-ice-out — slow indicator fishing. Midges. BWOs. Brook trout aggressive.
Yakima River — May
SALMONFLY (size 6-8) emerging. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis (size 14-16). PMDs starting. Runoff peaking — flows can spike.
Wenatchee River — May
SALMONFLY (size 6-8) on lower river. Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Heavy runoff possible — flows can spike.
Methow River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8). Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Heavy runoff — flows often unfishable.
Skagit River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8) on lower river. Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Glacial runoff peaking.
Skykomish River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8) on Sky. Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Spring chinook entering.
Stillaguamish River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8). Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Spring chinook entering lower river.
Sauk River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8) on lower river. Golden Stones. Caddis. Heavy glacial runoff — flows often unfishable.
Hoh River — May
Caddis (size 14-16). BWOs. Cutthroat active. Glacial influence increasing — runoff peaking.
Bogachiel River — May
Caddis (size 14-16). BWOs. Cutthroat active. Spring runoff peaking.
Queets River — May
Caddis. BWOs. Cutthroat. Glacial runoff peaking — flows can be unfishable.
Sol Duc River — May
Caddis (size 14-16). BWOs. Cutthroat. Spring runoff peaking.
Snoqualmie River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8) possible. Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Runoff peaking.
Spokane River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8) possible. Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Spring runoff possible.
Little Spokane River — May
PMDs (size 14-16) emerging. Caddis. BWOs. Spring creek opening up.
Naches River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8). Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Heavy runoff possible.
Tucannon River — May
Salmonfly (size 6-8). Golden Stones. Caddis. PMDs starting. Spring runoff peaking.
Hat Creek — May
PMDs beginning (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. BWOs continue on cloudy days. Classic Hat Creek dry-fly month opens.
Fall River — May
PMDs beginning (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. BWOs continue on cloudy days. Float tubes out in force.
Pit River — May
SALMONFLY (size 4-6) starting late month. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis heavy. PMDs beginning.
McCloud River — May
SALMONFLY (size 4-6) BEGINNING — the McCloud has a strong but less-publicized hatch. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis. PMDs starting.
Upper Sacramento River — May
SALMONFLY (size 4-6) BEGINNING. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs starting (size 16-18).
Trinity River — May
SALMONFLY (size 6-8) beginning. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis heavy. PMDs starting (size 16-18).
Klamath River — May
SALMONFLY (size 6-8) beginning. Golden Stones. Caddis (size 14-16). PMDs starting in cooler sections.
Feather River Low Flow Channel — May
PMDs beginning (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. BWOs continue on cloudy days.
Truckee River — May
GOLDEN STONES (size 6-8) starting. Caddis (size 14-16). PMDs beginning. Spring runoff peaking in some years.
Little Truckee River — May
PMDs beginning (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. BWOs continue on cloudy days.
East Walker River — May
PMDs beginning (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. BWOs continue on cloudy days.
West Walker River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — flows often unfishable from snowmelt. Watch the gauges, return when settled.
Lee Vining Creek — May
RUNOFF SEASON — heavy snowmelt makes most reaches unfishable. Verify which sections are open.
Owens River — May
PMDs beginning (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. BWOs continue on cloudy days.
Hot Creek — May
PMDs beginning (size 18-20). Caddis (size 16-18) evenings. BWOs continue on cloudy days.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — May
RUNOFF SEASON — heavy snowmelt makes most reaches unfishable. Watch the gauges.
Kings River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — heavy Sierra snowmelt makes most reaches unfishable. Watch the gauges.
Kern River — May
RUNOFF SEASON — Kernville stretch may be too high for wading. Wilderness backcountry still snowed in.
Russian River — May
Hot weather building. River warming fast — most of the year there is no realistic trout fishing on the mainstem.
Au Sable River — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak through mid-May (size 14) — the classic Au Sable spring hatch. SULPHURS beginning (size 16-18) evenings. MARCH BROWNS (size 12-14) afternoons. Caddis (#14-16) building.
Au Sable North Branch — May
HENDRICKSONS through mid-May (size 14). SULPHURS beginning (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building. Brook trout active in upper reaches.
Au Sable South Branch — May
HENDRICKSONS through mid-May (size 14). SULPHURS beginning (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building. Excellent dry-fly month.
Pere Marquette River — May
HENDRICKSONS through mid-May (size 14). SULPHURS beginning (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Spring steelhead tapering.
Manistee River — May
HENDRICKSONS through mid-May (size 14). SULPHURS beginning (size 16-18). Caddis (#14-16). Spring steelhead tapering.
Muskegon River — May
SULPHURS beginning (size 16-18). Caddis (#14-16). Spring steelhead tapering. Tailwater conditions ideal — cool, stable flows.
Jordan River — May
HENDRICKSONS through mid-May (size 14). SULPHURS beginning (size 16-18). Caddis (#14-16). Wild brookies in upper reaches active.
Boardman River — May
SULPHURS beginning (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Brook trout in upper river — verify current regulations on newly accessible reaches.
Betsie River — May
Caddis (#14-16) building. BWOs (size 18-20) on cloudy days. Spring steelhead tapering. Wild brown and brook trout active in upper river.
Pine River — May
HENDRICKSONS through mid-May (size 14). SULPHURS beginning (size 16-18). Caddis (#14-16). Wild browns in deep pools beneath undercut banks.
Pigeon River — May
HENDRICKSONS through mid-May (size 14). Caddis (#14-16) building. Wild brook trout active in cold spring-fed water.
Sturgeon River — May
Caddis at peak (size 14-16). Wild brook and brown trout active. Less pressured than Au Sable or PM — local gem.
Black River — May
Caddis at peak (size 14-16). Wild brook and brown trout. Beginner-friendly water for those who want solitude.
Two-Hearted River — May
Caddis at peak (size 14-16). Wild brook trout in tannin-stained Lake Superior shore country.
Fox River — May
Caddis at peak (size 14-16). Wild brook trout in dark tannin-stained water through Great Manistique Swamp.
Timber Coulee Creek — May
OPENER first Saturday in May (2026: May 2). HENDRICKSONS at peak first half of month. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building. Best month of the year on Timber Coulee.
West Fork Kickapoo River — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. HENDRICKSONS first half of month. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis building. Wild browns aggressive.
Kickapoo River — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. HENDRICKSONS first half of month. SULPHURS beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) all day.
Black Earth Creek — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. HENDRICKSONS first half of month. SULPHURS beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building. Heavy fishing pressure — Madison fly anglers descend.
Mt. Vernon Creek — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. HENDRICKSONS first half of month. SULPHURS beginning evenings. Caddis. Small water — short rods and stealth.
Elk Creek — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Quiet wild-trout fishing.
Blue River — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS beginning. Caddis. ERW means C&R / artificials only — every fish goes back.
Seas Branch — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. SULPHURS beginning evenings (size 16-18). Caddis (#14-16). Wild brookies in cold tiny water — short rods, stealth.
Tomorrow River — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Brook trout in cold headwaters; browns throughout.
Wolf River — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Big freestone water — brown and brook trout. Above Hwy M only on state license.
Bois Brule River — May
OPENER first Saturday in May for trout. SPRING STEELHEAD tapering. HENDRICKSONS (size 14). Brook trout active. 26" minimum / 1-fish kept on rainbow trout — C&R recommended.
Namekagon River — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Big freestone river — brook and brown trout. St. Croix Riverway protections apply.
White River — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Wild brook trout primary species; browns throughout. Cold tributary to Lake Superior.
Prairie River — May
OPENER first Saturday in May. HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Reliable central WI alternative.
Oconto River — May
OPENER first Saturday in May for trout. SPRING STEELHEAD tapering. HENDRICKSONS (size 14). Caddis (#14-16) building. Resident browns above Stiles.
Root River — May
HENDRICKSONS continuing first half of month. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings — dominant SE MN Driftless hatch. Caddis (#14-16) all day. Mainstem holds larger browns than the small spring creeks.
South Branch Root River — May
HENDRICKSONS first half of month. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building. Wild browns aggressive.
North Branch Root River — May
HENDRICKSONS first half of month. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Small water — short rods, stealth.
Whitewater River — May
HENDRICKSONS first half of month. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building. Strong wild brown populations — rainbows in some sections.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — May
HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building. Slot-limit protections in effect.
North Fork Whitewater River — May
HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Small Driftless water — short rods.
Trout Run Creek — May
HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Slot-limit fishery.
Rush Creek — May
HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Quiet small-stream Driftless fishing.
Straight River — May
HENDRICKSONS first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building.
Knife River — May
SPRING STEELHEAD tapering. Brook trout active above falls. Caddis (#14-16) building. Cold North Shore freestone flows.
Baptism River — May
SPRING STEELHEAD tapering. Brook trout active above falls. Caddis (#14-16) building.
Cascade River — May
SPRING STEELHEAD tapering. Brook trout active above falls. Caddis (#14-16) building.
Temperance River — May
SPRING STEELHEAD tapering. Brook trout active above falls. Caddis (#14-16) building.
Brule River — May
SPRING STEELHEAD tapering. Brook trout active above falls. Caddis (#14-16) building.
Poplar River — May
SPRING STEELHEAD tapering. Brook trout active above falls. Caddis (#14-16) building.
Upper Iowa River — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building. Best variety month on the Upper Iowa.
Yellow River — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building.
Volga River — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building.
Turkey River — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building.
Bloody Run Creek — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Small water — short rods, stealth.
Paint Creek — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Small water — stealth required.
Bear Creek — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Iowa's #1 rated stream — heavy populations of wild browns; stealth required.
North Fork Maquoketa River — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16) building.
Waterloo Creek — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Small water — stealth and short rods.
French Creek — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Small water — stealth required.
Village Creek — May
HENDRICKSONS at peak first half. SULPHURS (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (#14-16). Small water.
White River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Midges always. Scuds. Best variety month if generation is light.
North Fork River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Midges always. Scuds. Best variety month when generation is light.
Little Red River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Midges always. Scuds. Best variety month when generators are off.
Spring River — May
Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Midges always. Scuds. Best variety month.
Crooked Creek — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. BWOs. Midges. Stocked rainbows responsive to dries.
Chagrin River — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in upper river. BWOs continuing. Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning late month. Steelhead season winding down.
Grand River — May
Caddis (size 14-16) in upper river. BWOs. Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning. Steelhead winding down.
Rocky River — May
Caddis (size 14-16). BWOs. Steelhead season winding down. Resident fish thin once steelhead leave.
Vermilion River — May
Caddis (size 14-16). BWOs. Steelhead winding down.
Conneaut Creek — May
Caddis (size 14-16). BWOs. Steelhead winding down. Brook trout in upper watershed (C&R only).
Cuyahoga River — May
Caddis (size 14-16). BWOs. Steelhead winding down.
Ashtabula River — May
Caddis (size 14-16). BWOs. Steelhead winding down. Brook trout in upper watershed (C&R only).
Mad River — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning. BWOs. Best variety month.
Big Darby Creek — May
Smallmouth post-spawn aggressive. Crayfish, streamers, top-water poppers. Caddis.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning. BWOs. Best stocked-fish window.
Current River — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning. BWOs continuing. Best variety month on the Current.
Jacks Fork River — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning. BWOs continuing.
Eleven Point River — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning. BWOs.
North Fork of White River — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning. BWOs continuing.
Huzzah Creek — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning. BWOs. Best stocked-fish window.
Gasconade River — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Sulphurs (size 16-18) beginning. BWOs. Best stocked-fish window in the upper reach.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy through evening hatches. Sulphurs (size 16-18) emerging. BWOs tapering. Best month overall on the Helen headwaters.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — May
Little Black Caddis tapering, larger caddis (size 14-16) heavy through evenings. Sulphurs (size 16-18) starting. DH section closes May 14 — stay current.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy through evenings. Sulphurs (size 16-18). BWOs tapering. Peak month on the Tallulah headwaters above Tallulah Falls.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy through evenings. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Wild rainbow, brown, and remnant brook trout active in the gin-clear pools.
Soque River — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy through evenings. Sulphurs (size 16-18). BWOs tapering. Best month — productive water, willing fish.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — May
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy through evenings. Sulphurs (size 16-18). DH section closes May 14 — stay current. Best month on the tailwater.
Kenai River — May
Pre-season — rainbow trout opens June 11. Heavy spring flows ~6,000+ CFS. ⚠️ 2026 KING SALMON FULL CLOSURE — no retention, no catch-and-release. Sockeye not yet running.
Russian River — May
Pre-season. Trout possible on midges and small attractors but the fishery is built around the sockeye run. Fly-fishing-only year-round (single-hook unweighted artificial, gap ≤3/8").
Anchor River — May
Pre-season for steelhead. Resident fishing limited; ⚠️ 2026 king salmon forecast is LOW on the Anchor — verify ADF&G emergency orders before targeting kings.
Gulkana River — May
Late ice-out. Pre-season. Float trips begin late month or early June. ⚠️ 2026 Interior king salmon emergency orders may apply — verify at adfg.alaska.gov.
Situk River — May
PEAK SPRING STEELHEAD WINDOW. Largest wild steelhead run in Alaska. Gin-clear water, no hatchery fish. Yakutat air bookings tight — reserve well in advance. Optimal CFS 200–600.
Naknek River — May
Pre-season. King salmon arriving in early June; trophy rainbow window is Aug–Oct.
Spearfish Creek — May
Caddis peak, PMD (#16), Sulphurs; excellent dry-fly fishing
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — May
Caddis peak, PMD, Midges; best dry-fly fishing
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — May
Caddis, Midges; stockings peak
Spring Creek — May
Caddis peak (#14–16), PMD, Midges
Whitewood Creek — May
Caddis, PMD, Midges
Castle Creek — May
Caddis peak, PMD; less-pressured dry-fly fishing
Cumberland River Tailwater — May
Giant Stoneflies, caddis, Sulphurs, midges. Excellent top-water; long-drift Sulphur emergers crush.
Hatchery Creek — May
Caddis, Midges, Scuds. Quiet but reliable — small dries get takes.
Green River Tailwater — May
Caddis (#14–16), Sulphurs, Midges. Evening Caddis hatches productive.
Barren River Tailwater — May
Caddis, Midges, Soft Hackles. Best month for variety — Elk Hair Caddis at dusk.
Rockcastle River — May
Caddis peak. Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis. Streamers for Smallmouth as water warms.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — May
Caddis, Soft Hackles. Standard regs return; harvest pressure picks up.
Rock Creek — May
Caddis peak, Sulphurs (late May), Elk Hair Caddis. Excellent dry-fly fishing through the corridor.
Truckee River — May
Caddis peak, PMD (#16), Midges
East Walker River — May
Caddis peak, PMD, Midges; best dry-fly window
West Walker River — May
Caddis peak, PMD, Midges; flows begin stabilizing
East Fork Carson River — May
Caddis peak, Midges; stocking season begins
Lamoille Creek — May
Runoff peak — high, cold water; nymphing near banks
South Fork Humboldt River — May
Caddis peak, Midges; stocking season
Guadalupe River — May
Caddis, early Terrestrials (Ants, Beetles); Guadalupe bass on poppers
Llano River — May
Poppers peak; Crayfish patterns; Clouser Minnows; best month of the year
Blanco River — May
Poppers peak; carp on flats (San Juan Worms, Crayfish); small Sculpins for bass
Pedernales River — May
Poppers peak; Foam Beetles; Deer Hair Ants; spawning bass aggressive
Frio River — May
Poppers peak; Foam Beetles; Deer Hair Ants; best month before summer crowds
South Llano River — May
Poppers peak; Foam Beetles; Deer Hair Ants; best month
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — May
Caddis dominant; Sulfurs (#16–18); midges; PMD-style spinners
Cahaba River — May
Caddis; Poppers; Bluegill on small poppers; bass spawning
Little River Canyon — May
Caddis; Poppers; Foam Beetles; bass spawning in coves
Tallapoosa River — May
Caddis; Poppers; Crayfish patterns; warmwater fishery ramping up
Paint Rock River — May
Caddis; Poppers (#6–8); Bluegill on small poppers; bass spawning
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — May
Caddis; Poppers (#6–8); Crayfish; full smallmouth on ledges
Blue River — May
Caddis dominant; Sulfurs; Midges; Elk Hair Caddis; PFA C&R section warming
Mountain Fork River — May
Caddis; Sulfurs (#16–18); Midges; classic Ouachita tailwater hatch window
Illinois River — May
Poppers (#6–8); Caddis; full topwater season opens; classic Ozark smallmouth on drys
Baron Fork — May
Poppers (#6–8); Caddis; Elk Hair Caddis; topwater smallmouth in riffles
Glover River — May
Poppers (#6–8); Caddis; Elk Hair Caddis; classic Ouachita smallmouth window
Kiamichi River — May
Poppers (#6–8); Caddis; Crayfish; topwater largemouth in slow pools
June Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — June
Caddis heavy in evenings (size 14-16). PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning 9-11am. Midges always. Golden Stoneflies possible. Best variety month of the year.
Arkansas River — June
Peak runoff — flows often 2,000+ CFS and unfishable for wading. Caddis hatching when flows allow. Check back in mid-to-late July for prime summer fishing.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — June
Caddis evening action tapering. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Tricos (size 22-24) possible early morning. Summer heat can warm water in Pueblo — fish early morning or evening. Below-dam section stays cooler.
Blue River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs possible (size 16-18). Tailwater stays consistent when other rivers blow out. Silverthorne section fishing well. Mysis imitations as backup always.
Bear Creek — June
Caddis active (size 14-16) when flows settle. Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14) — look for them on warm afternoons. Fun accessible dry fly fishing near Denver.
Colorado River — June
Peak runoff — often 5,000-10,000+ CFS. Dangerous for wading. Float trips possible with a guide. Check back mid-July for prime conditions.
Frying Pan River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Technical fishing — these rainbows have seen every pattern. Use 6X minimum, precise dead drifts. Pale Evening Duns possible.
Roaring Fork River — June
Peak runoff on upper Fork. Lower canyon near Glenwood may settle first. Caddis hatching when flows settle. Post-runoff July is often the best month of the year on the Fork.
Cache la Poudre River — June
Variable flows — canyon may still be running high early June. Caddis heavy (size 14-16). Golden Stonefly and Yellow Sally (size 14) active. Check flows before driving Poudre Canyon Hwy.
Taylor River — June
PMDs (size 16-18) and Caddis (size 14-16) both active. Consistent tailwater flows. Long days in the canyon. Water temp optimal for surface feeding. Prime Taylor conditions.
Gunnison River — June
Peak runoff — flows often too high and turbid for most wading. Lower river near Delta may settle faster. Check gauge daily. Excellent post-runoff fishing begins in July.
Eagle River — June
Variable runoff — flows elevated well into June some years. Caddis (size 14-16) and Golden Stoneflies when settled. Lower Eagle near Wolcott and Gypsum tends to settle before upper sections.
Yampa River — June
Runoff continuing through June. Salmonfly and Golden Stonefly (size 6-10) emerging when flows settle — if you can time this, it's extraordinary fishing with large aggressive trout. Craig section may settle before Steamboat.
Rio Grande — June
Peak runoff — Gold Medal section often unfishable through most of June. Lower section near Del Norte sometimes holds. Check gauge daily — post-runoff July is outstanding.
Crystal River — June
Variable — flows often too high early June. Caddis and Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14) active when settled. Lower sections near Carbondale clear and become fishable before upper reaches.
Dolores River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) active. PMDs possible (size 16-18). McPhee water releases for irrigation can affect flows — watch the gauge. When flows are right, June can be outstanding.
North Platte River — June
Variable runoff — Gold Medal Northgate Canyon may still be running high early June. Golden Stoneflies (size 8-12) and caddis emerging when settled. Check Walden gauge before committing to the drive.
Slate River — June
Flows settling mid-to-late June. Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14) active. Caddis hatching. Small stream character — use 5X or 6X, approach carefully, make short casts to holding lies.
San Juan River — June
Peak runoff — main stem often blown out. West and East Forks above Pagosa may clear faster. Post-runoff late June can be excellent. Golden Stonefly (size 8-12) beginning when flows settle.
Animas River — June
Peak runoff — Gold Medal section often blown out June. Float fishing possible at high water with a guide. Check back in late June or July for prime wade conditions.
East River — June
Flows settling mid-to-late June. Caddis beginning (size 14-16). Golden Stonefly possible. East River below Cement Creek clears before upper Gothic sections. Lower beats fish first.
Fraser River — June
Peak runoff on the Fraser. Caddis hatching when flows settle. Lower Fraser near Granby may clear before Winter Park sections. Post-runoff July is the best fishing month of the year.
Dream Stream — June
PMDs (size 16-18) hatching. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Post-runoff June can be outstanding. Spring spawning fish from Spinney Mountain adding trophy trout to the reach. Flat water rewards stealth.
Gore Creek — June
Variable runoff — flows may still be elevated early June. Caddis (size 14-16) and stoneflies when settled. Post-runoff late June opens up quickly. Summer tourist season beginning.
Cheesman Canyon — June
Variable — flows may still be elevated early June. Caddis (size 14-16) when settled. Post-runoff June opens for technical summer fishing. Gill Trail (#610) from the trailhead.
Williams Fork River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) active. PMDs possible (size 16-18). Post-runoff surrounding watershed improves water clarity throughout the valley. Good small-stream dry fly fishing beginning.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — June
Peak runoff — flows often 3,000-8,000+ CFS. Float fishing with a guide only at these levels. Check gauge daily. Post-runoff July begins the prime fishing season for the Gold Medal stretch.
Conejos River — June
Variable — flows settling through June. Caddis (size 14-16) and stoneflies active when settled. Post-runoff June can be excellent. Rio Grande National Forest access via CO-17. Bring the RGNF map.
San Miguel River — June
Flows settling mid-to-late June. Caddis (size 14-16) active. Golden Stonefly when settled. Post-runoff June opens the canyon sections for dry fly fishing. Upper Telluride excellent when accessible.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — June
Variable — flows settling through June. Caddis (size 14-16) when settled. Post-runoff June on the Lake Fork opens the summer season. Lake City area beautiful in early summer.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — June
PMDs starting (size 16-18) mid-morning. BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Tailwater consistency makes June productive while Snake and Hoback are blown out with runoff.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — June
PMDs starting (size 16-18). BWOs on cloudy days. Caddis (size 14-16) beginning. Tailwater releases remain consistent. Long days, great evening fishing.
Snake River — June
Peak runoff continuing — flows often 8,000-15,000+ CFS. Float trips with experienced guides only. Salmonflies (size 4-6) hatching when flows allow. Wade fishing very limited.
Green River — Fontenelle — June
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. BWOs on cloudy days. Midges year-round. Tailwater consistency makes June productive when freestones blow.
Shoshone River — June
Peak runoff possible early month. Caddis (size 14-16) when flows settle. Salmonflies (size 4-6) in lower river late June. Post-runoff prime starting.
Bighorn River — June
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Midges year-round. Long days, prime tailwater conditions. Trophy water at its best.
Laramie River — June
Runoff tapering. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy when flows settle. PMDs starting late month (size 16-18). Post-runoff prime fishing window opening.
New Fork River — June
Peak runoff continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) starting when flows allow. Salmonflies (size 4-6) possible in lower sections late June. Post-runoff prime opening.
Hoback River — June
Peak runoff continuing. Salmonflies and Golden Stones (size 4-8) in canyon when flows allow. Caddis (size 14-16) starting late month.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. GOLDEN STONES (size 6-8) hatching when flows allow late month — iconic Clarks Fork stonefly hatch. Caddis (size 14-16) starting heavy. Post-runoff prime opening.
Salt River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) at peak — Salt River caddis hatches are heavy in the meadow stretches. PMDs (size 16-18) starting mid-morning. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Post-runoff prime opening late month.
Green River — June
GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) hatching late June — one of the iconic Western dry-fly hatches. PMDs (size 14-18) starting mid-morning. Midges. Selective fish requiring 6X tippet and precise drifts. Releases often heaviest this month for irrigation.
Provo River (Middle) — June
PMDs (size 16-18) dominant — mid-morning sippers, the signature Middle Provo hatch. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Higher releases continue for irrigation. Catch-and-release sections near Heber require single barbless hooks.
Weber River — June
Caddis continuing (size 14-16) — Mother's Day push tapering. PMDs (size 16-18) starting mid-morning. Echo releases climb for irrigation — flows often 300–500 CFS, wading challenging.
Ogden River — June
PMDs (size 12-16) at peak — mid-morning hatches over rising fish. Caddis (size 12-14) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14-16). Salmonflies tapering early month. Green Drakes (size 10-14) possible in the canyon.
Strawberry River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) and Stoneflies (size 6-10) hatching late month when flows allow — iconic Strawberry hatches. Caddis starting heavy.
Logan River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) hatching late month when flows settle — a brief but iconic canyon hatch. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs starting.
Bear River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy late month when flows settle. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. Bonneville Cutthroat populations active in select reaches.
Beaver River — June
Runoff settling late month. Caddis (size 14-16) emerging. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. Upper tributaries (Merchant Creek, Three Creeks) clearing first — Hwy 153 access opens.
Fremont River — June
GOLDEN STONES (size 6-8) and Salmonflies (size 4-6) at peak — iconic Fremont hatches. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Best dry-fly variety month.
East Fork Sevier River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Yellow Sallies (size 14-16). Cutthroat, brown, and rainbow trout all active in Kingston Canyon. Blue Ribbon designation — quieter than the marquee Utah waters.
Oak Creek — June
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies. Water temperatures begin pushing 68°F late month — fish dawn and morning only.
West Fork Oak Creek — June
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies. Cool spring inputs keep this water fishable when main Oak Creek heats up. Best dry fly month if you can find a quiet weekday.
East Fork Black River — June
Post-runoff prime opening late month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. Apache Trout aggressive in the cold spring-fed pools — catch-and-release ONLY statewide.
West Fork Black River — June
Runoff settling late month. Roads becoming passable. Caddis (size 14-16) starting when flows allow. Apache Trout in cold spring-fed pools.
North Fork White River — June
Post-runoff prime opening late month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. Tribal stocking schedule heaviest — reliable rainbow fishing in stocked stretches.
Canyon Creek — June
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Yellow Sallies (size 14-16). Best dry-fly variety month. C&R section below OW Ranch holding 20-inch+ browns in clear pools.
Tonto Creek — June
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Water temperatures begin climbing late month — fish dawn and morning before mid-day heat.
Silver Creek — June
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning — best dry fly action of the year on the meadow stretches. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Selective trout in slow clear water — long leaders, 6X tippet, careful approaches.
East Clear Creek — June
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Kinder Crossing area accessible — wild rainbows, browns, and brookies in spring-fed canyon pools.
Little Colorado River — June
Post-runoff prime opening late month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Meadow stretches near Greer and Nutrioso fishing well — undercut banks holding browns.
Chevelon Creek — June
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Spring-fed upper canyon pools holding rainbows and browns. Quiet, remote, dramatic sandstone walls.
San Juan River — June
PMDs (size 18-20) mid-morning. BWOs on cloudy days. Caddis (size 16-18) beginning. Midges year-round. The Juan fishes well while Rio Grande and freestones run high with snowmelt.
Rio Grande — June
Post-runoff prime opening late month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy when flows settle. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Salmonflies (size 4-6) in canyon — iconic Rio Grande hatch.
Rio Chama — June
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. BWOs on cloudy days. Salmonflies (size 4-6) possible in upper canyon. Wild & Scenic stretches at their best.
Cimarron River — June
Post-runoff prime opening. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Easy roadside access — great month for beginners.
Pecos River — June
Post-runoff prime opening late month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Wilderness sections accessible — Rio Grande Cutthroat in headwaters.
Brazos River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. Caddis (size 14-16) starting when flows allow. Salmonflies (size 4-6) possible in the box late month.
Red River — June
Post-runoff prime opening. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Easy access through town of Red River — beginner-friendly.
Jemez River — June
Post-runoff prime opening. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Easy day trip from Albuquerque — convenient and productive.
Gila River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) continues. PMDs (size 16-18) starting mid-month. Hot midday — fish dawn and dusk. Monsoon season can spike flows and color the river fast — check the gauge before driving out.
Henry's Fork — June
GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) hatching late month — one of the most iconic dry fly hatches in the West. PMDs starting (size 14-16). Caddis (size 14-16). Salmonflies in lower river. Harriman Ranch opens June 15 — book early.
South Fork Snake River — June
SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) and GOLDEN STONES (size 6-8) hatching — the iconic South Fork hatch. Caddis evenings. PMDs starting late month. High flows but float fishing prime. Big nymphs and big dries.
Silver Creek — June
PMDs (size 16-20) dominant — selective fish over flat glassy water. Callibaetis spinner falls in flats. Damselflies (size 10-12) on warmer afternoons. The technical dry fly fishing Silver Creek is famous for.
Big Wood River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy late month when flows settle. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. Post-runoff prime opening late June.
South Fork Boise River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) dominant. PMDs (size 16-18) starting. Salmonflies (size 4-6) possible. Higher flows make wading challenging — float trips ideal. Tailwater stays cool.
Salmon River — June
Peak runoff continuing — flows often 5,000-15,000+ CFS in the main Salmon. Caddis (size 14-16) starting in headwaters when flows allow. Post-runoff prime opening late month.
Clearwater River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in lower sections. Salmonflies (size 4-6) possible. Post-runoff prime opening for resident cutthroat and rainbows.
Lochsa River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. Salmonflies (size 4-6) and Golden Stones (size 6-8) hatching when flows allow — iconic Lochsa hatches. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy late month.
Teton River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) at peak — Teton caddis hatches are heavy in the meadow stretches. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Cutthroat sip in slow meadow water.
Fall River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. Salmonflies (size 4-6) possible in lower sections late month — a hidden Fall River hatch. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Post-runoff prime opening.
St. Joe River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. Salmonflies (size 4-6) and Golden Stones (size 6-8) hatching when flows allow. Post-runoff prime opening late June. Caddis heavy.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy late month. Salmonflies (size 4-6) possible. Post-runoff prime opening for resident cutthroat and rainbows.
Selway River — June
SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) at peak in lower sections — one of the most dramatic stonefly hatches in Idaho. Golden Stones (size 6-8) starting. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy late month as flows settle. Post-runoff prime opening late June.
Boise River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) dominant in evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) starting mid-morning. Higher irrigation flows in effect. Wading limited — fish from the Greenbelt path or float. Cool tailwater stays productive in summer heat.
Madison River — June
SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) at peak late June — the iconic Madison hatch moves upstream from $3 Bridge to West Yellowstone over 2-3 weeks. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis evenings. Big nymphs and big dries.
Missouri River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) dominant in evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning — peak on the Mo. Midges always. Long days, miles of wadeable riffle, technical sippers in the flats. Prime time on the river.
Yellowstone River — June
Peak runoff continuing — flows often 10,000+ CFS in Paradise Valley. SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) hatching when flows allow late month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Float trips with experienced guides only.
Big Hole River — June
SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) at peak — the Big Hole salmonfly hatch is one of the West's great spectacles. Golden Stones (size 6-8) late month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Last good Arctic Grayling window before summer warmth.
Bitterroot River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) at peak late month — the Bitterroot salmonfly hatch is heavy. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis (size 14-16). Post-runoff prime opening.
Clark Fork River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) and Golden Stones (size 6-8) at peak late month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Post-runoff prime opening — big water, big bugs.
Blackfoot River — June
SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) at peak — the Blackfoot salmonfly hatch is iconic. Golden Stones (size 6-8) late month. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. Post-runoff prime opening.
Gallatin River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) starting late month when flows allow — Gallatin Canyon Salmonfly hatch is beautiful and accessible. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis (size 14-16).
Flathead River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) starting late month when flows allow. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis (size 14-16). Post-runoff prime opening late June.
Smith River — June
Float season prime. Salmonflies tapering early month. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. The Smith canyon at its best — book your guides and pack carefully.
Rock Creek — June
SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) at peak — Rock Creek is famous for its salmonfly fishing. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis (size 14-16). Wade-only above July 1 — perfect roadside pocket water.
Stillwater River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) starting late month when flows allow — high-elevation timing makes June the Stillwater Salmonfly window. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis (size 14-16).
Boulder River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) starting late month when flows allow — high-elevation timing puts the Boulder Salmonfly hatch in June. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis (size 14-16).
Sun River — June
Peak runoff continuing early month. SALMONFLIES (size 4-6) possible in upper river late month. Golden Stones (size 6-8). Caddis (size 14-16). Post-runoff prime opening late June.
Ruby River — June
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) starting mid-morning. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Irrigation releases dominate flow patterns. Tricky technical brown trout fishing in low clear water.
Rapidan River — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16) and Yellow Sally (size 14-16) primary. Sulphurs continuing early month. Terrestrials starting (ants #18-20). Brookies opportunistic — small attractors crush.
South River — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing early month. Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Water can warm fast through town — fish early or in shaded reaches.
Jackson River — June
Sulphurs continuing early month. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Light Cahill (size 14-16). Tricos (size 22-26) starting late month on slower stretches.
North Fork Shenandoah River — June
Caddis evenings (size 14-16). Light Cahill. Yellow Sally. Smallmouth season opening — terrestrials, poppers, big streamers in lower stretches.
Bullpasture River — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16) and Yellow Sally (size 14-16) primary. Sulphurs continuing early. Terrestrials starting. Lightly pressured — fish willing to come up.
Maury River — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16). Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing early. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials starting. Challenging wading rewarded.
Rose River — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16) and Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Terrestrials starting. Wild brookies eat any well-presented small attractor.
Conway River — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16) and Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Terrestrials starting. Best month for solitude — most anglers chase Rapidan and Rose.
Passage Creek — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16) and Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing early. Terrestrials starting. Lightly pressured — Fort Valley is locals-only territory.
Davidson River — June
Yellow Sally (size 14-16) and Light Cahill (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Wild rainbows and browns selective in clear gin-like Pisgah water.
Watauga River — June
Yellow Sally and Light Cahill primary. Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. High-elevation cold water keeps fishing strong as lower NC streams warm.
Nantahala River — June
Sulphurs continuing strong (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Tricos (size 22-26) starting. Whitewater traffic peak — fish dawn before releases.
New River (North Carolina) — June
Light Cahill and Yellow Sally in headwaters. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Smallmouth post-spawn aggressive — poppers, big streamers, hopper-droppers.
Oconaluftee River — June
YELLOW SALLY PEAK (size 14-16) — heavy emergence on Oconaluftee. Light Cahill. Sulphurs continuing early. Terrestrials starting — Cherokee corridor pressured midday, fish edges.
French Broad River — June
Yellow Sally (size 14-16) and Light Cahill (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Wild trout active — selective fish in clear Pisgah water.
Cataloochee Creek — June
YELLOW SALLY PEAK (size 14-16) signature June hatch. Light Cahill (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Terrestrials starting. Wild brookies opportunistic in clear plunge pools.
Linville River — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16) and Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials starting — gorge canopy holds beetles and ants.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — June
Sulphurs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sally. Tricos (size 22-26) starting late month on flatter water.
Little River — June
YELLOW SALLY PEAK (size 14-16) — Little River's signature summer hatch, heavy emergence. Light Cahill (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing early month.
Tellico River — June
Yellow Sally (size 14-16) and Light Cahill (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Tight-quarters dry fly fishing in classic Appalachian style.
Cranberry River — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16) and Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Terrestrials starting. Hike in to roadless catch-and-release sections for solitude.
South Branch Potomac River — June
GREEN DRAKE peak continuing early month. Light Cahill (size 14-16) and Yellow Sally. Caddis evenings. Smallmouth post-spawn aggressive in lower river.
Elk River — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16) and Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials starting — Elk Valley grassy banks productive.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16) and Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Terrestrials starting. Hike up to roadless catch-and-release sections for solitude.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — June
GREEN DRAKE peak continuing early month. Light Cahill (size 14-16). Yellow Sally. Caddis evenings. Wild trout sip dries in canyon pools — dramatic scenery.
Williams River — June
Light Cahill (size 14-16) and Yellow Sally (size 14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Terrestrials starting. Lightly pressured — Williams stays uncrowded all season.
Greenbrier River — June
GREEN DRAKE peak continuing early month — large dries to large fish. Light Cahill (size 14-16). Yellow Sally. Sulphurs continuing. Best dry-fly month.
Beaverkill River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) — spectacular evening hatch with Coffin Fly spinner fall. Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Storied river at its prime.
Willowemoc Creek — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) — spectacular evening hatch with Coffin Fly spinner fall. Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14).
East Branch Delaware River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) late May into early June. SULPHUR PEAK (size 16-18) — tailwater extends emergence. Light Cahill. Reservoir-fed fertility produces large wild fish on dries.
West Branch Delaware River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) — PROLIFIC late-May/early-June emergence, the West Branch is famous for this. Sulphur peak (size 16-18). Coffin Fly spinner falls drawing trophy browns to the surface.
Esopus Creek — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) late May into early June. Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Best dry-fly variety month.
Schoharie Creek — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis evenings. Best dry-fly month.
Neversink River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) late May into early June. Sulphurs peak (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Native brookies in upper reaches above the reservoir.
Rondout Creek — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis evenings. Native brookies in upper tribs.
Ausable River (East Branch) — June
GREEN DRAKE peak (size 10-12). Sulphurs peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Stoneflies. Brook trout opportunistic — any small dry on a dead drift works.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — June
GREEN DRAKE peak (size 10-12). Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill. Stoneflies. Wilmington gorge dry-fly water at its best.
Saranac River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) peak. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Stoneflies. Upper river near Saranac Lake at prime — note Plattsburgh gauge runs high.
Raquette River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Stoneflies. Caddis. Wild brookies and browns opportunistic on attractor dries.
Black River (upper) — June
GREEN DRAKE peak (size 10-12). Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis. Best dry-fly month on upper Black.
Penns Creek — June
GREEN DRAKE PEAK (size 10-12) early-to-mid month — the most famous hatch in Pennsylvania. Coffin Fly spinner falls draw trophy wild browns at dusk. Sulphur peak. Light Cahill (size 14).
Spring Creek — June
Sulphurs tapering. TRICO (size 22-26) starting mornings on flats. Caddis evenings. Selective wild browns require precise drifts and 6X tippet.
Big Fishing Creek — June
GREEN DRAKE peak (size 10-12) early month — heavy emergence in Bear Meadows / Loganton corridor. Sulphurs continuing. Light Cahill.
Little Juniata River — June
GREEN DRAKE peak (size 10-12) early-to-mid month. Sulphur peak (size 16-18). Light Cahill (size 14). Wild browns of 16-20+ inches surface-feeding.
Yellow Breeches Creek — June
Sulphurs tapering. TRICO (size 22-26) starting late month — Yellow Breeches Tricos are world-class. Caddis evenings.
Tulpehocken Creek — June
Sulphurs tapering. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials starting. Cold tailwater extends spring fishing into summer.
Brodhead Creek — June
GREEN DRAKE peak (size 10-12) early month. Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Slate Drake starting. Storied Catskill-school water at its prime.
Bushkill Creek — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best dry-fly variety month — drops fast after this.
Loyalsock Creek — June
Golden Stonefly continuing. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis. Native brookies aggressive on attractor dries in headwaters.
Pine Creek — June
GREEN DRAKE peak (size 10-12). Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis. Best dry-fly month in the gorge — wild trout opportunistic.
Kettle Creek — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis. Cross Fork section pristine — wild browns and native brookies opportunistic.
Young Womans Creek — June
Caddis tail end. Sulphurs continuing. Terrestrials starting (ants #18-20, beetles). Flows dropping fast on this small remote stream.
Battenkill River — June
SULPHUR peak (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. PEAK DRY-FLY month — long leaders, accurate casts, technical sight-fishing in clear water.
White River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) late month — White River drainage emergence. Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best dry-fly month.
Mad River — June
Caddis peak. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill (size 14). Wild browns and brookies opportunistic in tight woodland pools.
Lamoille River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis evenings. Johnson-to-Morrisville corridor at its best.
Winooski River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. PMD (size 16). Caddis evenings. Light Cahill. Upper sections at their best.
Dog River — June
Caddis tail end. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill (size 14). Tight pocket water fishing — 7.5 ft rod territory.
Black River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis evenings. Best dry-fly month.
West River — June
Sulphurs continuing (tailwater extends). Caddis evenings. Light Cahill (size 14). Trophy wild browns surface-feeding when conditions cooperate.
Williams River — June
Caddis tail end. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill (size 14). Roadside Route 103 access — approachable for beginners.
Missisquoi River — June
CADDIS PEAK — Missisquoi caddis emergence is excellent. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill (size 14). Wild brook trout signature water.
West Branch Penobscot — June
Smelt tail end. CADDIS PEAK (size 14-16). Stoneflies. Hendrickson tail end. Sulphurs starting. Salmon and brook trout actively rising.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — June
Smelt tail end. CADDIS (size 14-16). Sulphurs (size 16-18). Hendrickson tail end. Salmon rising to dries.
Kennebec River – The Forks — June
CADDIS PEAK (size 14-16). Sulphurs (size 16-18). Hendrickson tail end. Light Cahill late. Best dry-fly month.
Dead River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Sandy River — June
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Sulphurs. Light Cahill late month. Best variety.
Carrabassett River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) — Carrabassett Valley emergence. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Caddis. Light Cahill late month.
Magalloway River — June
Smelt tail end. CADDIS PEAK. PMDs (size 16-18). Sulphurs (size 16-18). Heritage Brook Trout water at its prime.
Narraguagus River — June
Salter run continuing. CADDIS PEAK. Mayflies (mixed). Resident brookies surface-feeding.
Rapid River — June
CADDIS PEAK (size 14-16). Hare's Ear nymphs always. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Trophy wild brookies surface-feeding.
Roach River — June
Caddis (size 14-16). Sulphurs. Hendrickson tail end. Wild brookies and salmon active.
Kennebago River — June
CADDIS (size 14-16). Sulphurs (size 16-18). Hendrickson tail end. Trophy wild brookies and salmon rising.
Ellis River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12). Sulphurs peak. Caddis evenings. Light Cahill (size 14). Best variety month.
Swift River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12). Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Caddis evenings. Best month — flows finally dropping.
Saco River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12) — strong Saco emergence. Sulphurs peak. Light Cahill. Caddis. Best month.
Androscoggin River — June
ALDER FLY HATCH mid-month — prolific Androscoggin signature event, regional spectacle. GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12). Caddis. March Brown / Grey Fox.
Pemigewasset River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12). Sulphurs peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis. Best variety month.
Wild River — June
CADDIS (size 14-16). Sulphurs (size 16-18). Stoneflies. Wild brookies surface-feeding.
Ammonoosuc River — June
GREEN DRAKE (size 10-12). Sulphurs peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis. Best variety month.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — June
CADDIS PEAK. Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. PMDs (size 16-18). Salmon and trophy browns rising.
Smith River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill. Caddis evenings.
Cold River — June
Caddis. Sulphurs peak. Stoneflies. Light Cahill late. Best month for native brookie water.
Deerfield River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Caddis evenings. Light Cahill. Premier hatch month for Deerfield browns and rainbows.
Swift River — June
SULPHUR PEAK (size 16-18) — every evening. Tricos starting late month. Caddis evenings.
Westfield River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill (size 14). Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
West Branch Westfield River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Caddis. Light Cahill. Stoneflies. Wild brookies in tributaries active.
East Branch Westfield River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) peak. Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best month in the gorge.
Millers River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Squannacook River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis. Wild brookies in tributaries active.
Nissitissit River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best month for the fly-only stretch.
Cold River — June
Caddis. Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Stoneflies. Best month for the native brookie water.
Farmington River (MA Section) — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Ware River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Farmington River — June
SULPHUR PEAK (size 16-18) — the iconic Farmington hatch. Caddis. Light Cahill. Best dry-fly month.
Housatonic River — June
SULPHUR PEAK (size 16-18). ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) — a Hous signature. Caddis. Light Cahill.
Salmon River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best dry-fly month.
Willimantic River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Cole Wilde TMA fishes well.
Natchaug River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Shepaug River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best small-stream dry-fly month.
Mad River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Brookies in cooler upper reaches.
Bantam River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Lake-fed water warms — fishery shifts to early-morning.
Blackledge River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Jeremy River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Caddis. Light Cahill. Best small-stream month.
Still River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Caddis. Light Cahill. Best month — opportunistic browns from Farmington.
Gunpowder Falls — June
SULPHUR PEAK (size 16-18) — every evening. Light Cahill. Caddis. Best month for surface fishing.
Little Gunpowder Falls — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Big Hunting Creek — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Caddis. Light Cahill. Best dry-fly month — cathedral canopy, technical presentations.
Savage River — June
SULPHUR PEAK (size 16-18) — the classic Savage hatch. Light Cahill. Caddis. Best dry-fly month.
North Branch Potomac River — June
SULPHUR PEAK (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best dry-fly month in the canyon.
Youghiogheny River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best month at elevation.
Casselman River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best month for the brookie water.
Antietam Creek — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Catoctin Creek — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Patuxent River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Monocacy River — June
Caddis. Sulphurs. Water warming — switch focus to tributary mouths and spring seeps.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best month in the gorge.
Musconetcong River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Big Flat Brook — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best month — Trophy Trout sections.
Pequest River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best month for stocked fish.
Paulinskill River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Rockaway River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Ramapo River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Wanaque River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Black River (Lamington River) — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best month in the gorge.
Pequannock River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18). Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Best month in Highlands water.
Deschutes River — June
SALMONFLY at peak — world-famous emergence. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Most crowded month — book early.
McKenzie River — June
GOLDEN STONES (size 6-8) at peak. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. McKenzie Caddis hatches especially heavy.
Metolius River — June
GREEN DRAKES at peak (size 10-12). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Salmonflies (size 6-8) in lower river.
North Umpqua River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Summer steelhead beginning to enter the river.
Rogue River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Spring chinook fishing active.
Williamson River — June
PMDs at peak (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. HEXAGENIA late month — giant mayflies for big rainbows. Trophy potential.
Crooked River — June
PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hopper-dropper productive.
Fall River — June
PMDs at peak (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Spring creek prime time — trophy browns and rainbows on dries.
Sandy River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Spring chinook fishing.
Clackamas River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Spring chinook.
Grande Ronde River — June
Salmonfly and Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Post-runoff prime time.
Wallowa River — June
Salmonfly and Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Post-runoff dial-in.
John Day River — June
Salmonfly and Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Best float-trip month.
Sprague River — June
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. HEXAGENIA late month — big mayflies for big fish.
Wood River — June
PMDs at peak (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. HEXAGENIA late month — outstanding dry fly.
Hosmer Lake — June
CALLIBAETIS (size 14-16) emerging mid-morning. Chironomids continue. Damselflies starting late month.
Yakima River — June
PMDs (size 14-16) at peak mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Salmonfly tapering, Golden Stones continuing. Post-runoff prime time.
Wenatchee River — June
GOLDEN STONES (size 6-8) at peak. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Post-runoff dial-in.
Methow River — June
GOLDEN STONES (size 6-8) at peak. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Post-runoff prime time for resident trout.
Skagit River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Post-runoff dial-in — heavy glacial influence.
Skykomish River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Spring chinook fishing.
Stillaguamish River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Spring chinook fishing.
Sauk River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Post-runoff dial-in — heavy glacial influence.
Hoh River — June
Caddis evenings. PMDs occasional. Cutthroat active. Hot glacial water — early starts.
Bogachiel River — June
Caddis evenings. PMDs occasional. Cutthroat. Summer flows beginning to stabilize.
Queets River — June
Caddis evenings. PMDs occasional. Cutthroat. Glacial flows stabilizing.
Sol Duc River — June
Caddis evenings. PMDs occasional. Cutthroat. Summer flows stabilizing.
Snoqualmie River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Post-runoff dial-in.
Spokane River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Post-runoff prime time for browns and rainbows.
Little Spokane River — June
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Spring creek prime time.
Naches River — June
GOLDEN STONES (size 6-8) at peak. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Post-runoff dial-in.
Tucannon River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Post-runoff prime time.
Hat Creek — June
PMDs at peak (size 16-18) mid-morning — Parachute PMD or Sparkle Dun. Caddis at dusk. Tricos (size 22-24) starting on slower flats.
Fall River — June
PMDs at peak (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. HEXAGENIA mayflies (size 6-8) starting — the iconic Fall River hatch.
Pit River — June
SALMONFLY at peak — big-bug dry-fly fishing for trophy browns. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 16-18). Caddis evenings.
McCloud River — June
SALMONFLY at peak. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Prime native redband fishing.
Upper Sacramento River — June
SALMONFLY at peak — iconic Upper Sac emergence. Golden Stones. PMDs (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Best month for trophy rainbows.
Trinity River — June
Golden Stones at peak (size 6-8). PMDs (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Resident trout season.
Klamath River — June
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Lower river warming fast — focus on cold mornings.
Feather River Low Flow Channel — June
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Cold channel water keeps fish active in summer.
Truckee River — June
GOLDEN STONES at peak (size 6-8). PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Best variety month.
Little Truckee River — June
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Small water, technical fishing — 6X tippet minimum.
East Walker River — June
PMDs at peak (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) starting on slower flats.
West Walker River — June
GOLDEN STONES (size 6-8) at peak when flows allow. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Post-runoff prime time.
Lee Vining Creek — June
GOLDEN STONES (size 6-8) emerging when flows settle. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis. Tioga Pass opening — short summer window begins.
Owens River — June
PMDs at peak (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) starting on slower flats.
Hot Creek — June
PMDs at peak (size 18-20). Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) starting. Spring-creek technical fishing at its hardest.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — June
SALMONFLY (size 6-8) BEGINNING when flows allow. Golden Stones. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis. Backcountry season opens.
Kings River — June
SALMONFLY (size 6-8) when flows settle. Golden Stones. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis. Kings Canyon road typically opens.
Kern River — June
GOLDEN STONES (size 6-8) on lower river. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis (size 14-16). Backcountry trails opening to Golden Trout Wilderness.
Russian River — June
Hot summer — most of the river is too warm for trout. Closures common to protect steelhead juveniles. Verify rules before fishing.
Au Sable River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis (size 14-16) all day. Light Cahills emerging. Late month: HEX hatch begins — the defining Michigan event. Marathon nights of rising 20"+ browns.
Au Sable North Branch — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day (size 14-16). Light Cahills emerging. Late month: HEX hatch begins on lower NB sections.
Au Sable South Branch — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Light Cahills emerging. Late month: HEX hatch begins.
Pere Marquette River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Light Cahills. Late month: HEX hatch — the PM's claim to dry-fly fame for trophy browns.
Manistee River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Late month: HEX hatch on upper Manistee — overnight fishing for trophy browns.
Muskegon River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Late month: HEX hatch on the Muskegon — overnight fishing for trophy browns below Croton.
Jordan River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Light Cahills. Wild brook trout the prize on the upper Jordan.
Boardman River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18). Caddis all day. Wild brown and brook trout in upper river finding new habitat after dam removals.
Betsie River — June
Caddis at peak (size 14-16). Wild trout in upper Betsie — less pressured than the Au Sable or PM.
Pine River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Wild brown and brook trout in technical pocket water.
Pigeon River — June
Caddis at peak (size 14-16) all day. Native brook trout the prize. Pigeon River Country State Forest — 105,000 acres of wild public land.
Sturgeon River — June
Caddis all day (size 14-16). Wild brookies in cold upper water.
Black River — June
Caddis all day (size 14-16). Wild fish in cool freestone water.
Two-Hearted River — June
Caddis all day (size 14-16). Native brookies the only species. Roadless wilderness through much of its length.
Fox River — June
Caddis all day (size 14-16). Native brookies. Beautiful, accessible UP brook trout fishery via the Fox River Pathway.
Timber Coulee Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings — the defining Driftless hatch. Caddis all day (size 14-16). Late month: TRICO spinner falls beginning early morning.
West Fork Kickapoo River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis (size 14-16) all day. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Kickapoo River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Late month: Trico spinner falls beginning. Mainstem holds larger browns than the small spring creeks.
Black Earth Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Trico spinner falls beginning late month. Big browns hold in undercut banks.
Mt. Vernon Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Trico spinner falls beginning.
Elk Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Blue River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Trico spinner falls beginning late month. The Blue is one of the most-protected Driftless ERW waters.
Seas Branch — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Native brook trout active in cold spring flows.
Tomorrow River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Late month: HEX hatch begins on lower river — overnight fishing for trophy browns.
Wolf River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Late month: HEX hatch begins — overnight fishing for trophy browns. Big water at its prime.
Bois Brule River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Late month: HEX hatch begins on the Brule — overnight fishing for trophy browns and large brookies. Night fishing prohibited.
Namekagon River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Late month: HEX hatch begins — Hex is THE event on the Namekagon. Overnight fishing for trophy browns.
White River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Late month: HEX hatch begins — overnight fishing for trophy browns. Cool northern flows.
Prairie River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Oconto River — June
SULPHURS evenings (size 16-18). Caddis all day. Late month: HEX hatch begins on upper river — overnight fishing for trophy browns.
Root River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Late month: TRICO spinner falls beginning early morning.
South Branch Root River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis (size 14-16) all day. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
North Branch Root River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Whitewater River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings — dominant Whitewater hatch. Caddis all day. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning late month. Slot-limit fishery — mid-size browns released.
North Fork Whitewater River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Trout Run Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning late month. Slot-limit protections protect mid-size browns.
Rush Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Straight River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Knife River — June
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active in cold spring flows above falls. North Shore tribs — wild brookies.
Baptism River — June
Caddis evenings. Brook trout in cold spring flows above falls.
Cascade River — June
Caddis evenings. Brook trout in cold spring flows above falls.
Temperance River — June
Caddis evenings. Brook trout in cold spring flows above falls.
Brule River — June
Caddis evenings. Brook trout in cold spring flows above falls.
Poplar River — June
Caddis evenings. Brook trout in cold spring flows above falls.
Upper Iowa River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings — defining Driftless hatch. Caddis all day. Late month: TRICO spinner falls beginning early morning.
Yellow River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Late month: TRICO spinner falls beginning.
Volga River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Late month: TRICO spinner falls beginning.
Turkey River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Bloody Run Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning. Heavy populations of wild browns under C&R protection.
Paint Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Bear Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings — defining Driftless hatch. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
North Fork Maquoketa River — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis all day. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Waterloo Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning. Heavy populations of wild browns under C&R protection.
French Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
Village Creek — June
SULPHURS at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Trico spinner falls beginning late month.
White River — June
Sulphurs at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Midges. Generation often heavy in summer — fish between releases.
North Fork River — June
Sulphurs at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Midges. Generation often heavy — fish between releases.
Little Red River — June
Sulphurs at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Midges. Heavy summer generation — read the gauge.
Spring River — June
Sulphurs at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Midges. Constant cold spring water keeps fishing strong through summer.
Crooked Creek — June
Caddis evenings. Midges. Stocked rainbows. Water can warm — fish early/late.
Chagrin River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Hex (size 6-8) on slower runs late month. Resident brook trout active in upper headwaters (C&R only).
Grand River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Hex (size 6-8) on slower runs late month. Brook trout in upper watershed (C&R only).
Rocky River — June
Caddis. Light fishery once steelhead are gone — primarily a steelhead river.
Vermilion River — June
Caddis. Light fishery once steelhead are gone.
Conneaut Creek — June
Caddis. Sulphurs evenings. Brook trout in upper headwaters (C&R only).
Cuyahoga River — June
Caddis. Sulphurs evenings. Light summer fishery once steelhead are gone.
Ashtabula River — June
Caddis. Brook trout in upper headwaters (C&R only).
Mad River — June
Sulphurs at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Light Cahills (size 14-16). Midges.
Big Darby Creek — June
Smallmouth strong on top-water and streamers. Damselflies. Hex (size 6-8) on slower runs.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Midges. Stocked rainbows responsive.
Current River — June
Sulphurs at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Midges. Spring-fed cold water keeps fish active through warmer days.
Jacks Fork River — June
Sulphurs at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Midges. Smaller water than the Current — wading easier when flows are right.
Eleven Point River — June
Sulphurs at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Midges. Wild browns on small dries to picky risers in clear water.
North Fork of White River — June
Sulphurs at peak (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Midges. Wild browns on dries.
Huzzah Creek — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Midges.
Gasconade River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Midges. Smallmouth bass picking up below the trout reach — Jerome and Rich Fountain warmwater.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis continue. Tan caddis afternoons. Terrestrials starting late month — beetles and ants on the small headwater stretches.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Yellow Sallies on rocky pocket water. Wild rainbows surface feeding heavily in mid-river runs.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Yellow Sallies on the rocky stretches. Stocking continuing.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — June
Sulphurs evenings. Caddis. Yellow Sallies. Wild fish at peak — the deep canyon pools hold big browns. Bushwhack-grade access.
Soque River — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Yellow Sallies. Trophy browns on private water — public stretches still hold quality fish.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — June
Sulphurs (size 16-18) evenings. Caddis. Tailwater stays cold all summer thanks to bottom-release dam. Trophy browns up to 26" documented.
Kenai River — June
Rainbow trout season opens June 11 (upper river closed May 1 – June 10 for spawning). Midges (size 18-22) on rainbows. ⚠️ 2026 King salmon FULL CLOSURE through Aug 15. Sockeye begin entering river.
Russian River — June
SOCKEYE OPENS JUNE 11 — peak Cooper Landing scene. Sockeye on flesh-colored Russian River flies (Coho fly, sparsely tied). 3 fish/day, 6 in possession. Fly-fishing-only — no other tackle permitted.
Anchor River — June
Early king salmon season historically — ⚠️ verify 2026 emergency-order status before fishing kings. Low-water summer conditions.
Gulkana River — June
King salmon June–July (verify 2026 emergency-order status). Sockeye salmon entering. ARCTIC GRAYLING fishing begins — dries (Elk-hair caddis, Humpies) work all summer thanks to clearwater conditions. Dry fly heaven.
Situk River — June
Spring steelhead tapering. Resident rainbow trout, cutthroat, Dolly Varden active. All five Pacific salmon species begin entering the river.
Naknek River — June
KING SALMON RUN — 15,000–25,000 fish enter the river. ⚠️ Verify Bristol Bay 2026 king emergency orders separately from Kenai (Bristol Bay management is independent). Drift boat / raft fishery only — too big to wade.
Spearfish Creek — June
Caddis, Terrestrials begin—Ants, Beetles (#16–18)
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — June
Caddis, early Terrestrials
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — June
Terrestrials, Caddis, Midges
Spring Creek — June
Caddis, Terrestrials begin
Whitewood Creek — June
Terrestrials, Caddis
Castle Creek — June
Caddis, Terrestrials begin
Cumberland River Tailwater — June
Midges dominate. Scuds and Sowbugs subsurface. Streamer fishing for browns in low light.
Hatchery Creek — June
Midges, Scuds, Sowbugs. Stay subsurface; small stream stays cold from hatchery flows.
Green River Tailwater — June
Terrestrials (Ants, Beetles), Midges. Streamers for Walleye and Smallmouth as water warms.
Barren River Tailwater — June
Midges, Terrestrials. Streamers for Walleye as water warms past trout-friendly range.
Rockcastle River — June
Terrestrials begin — Poppers, Foam Beetles, Ants. Excellent smallmouth on top.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — June
Midges, Ants (#18–20). Summer fishing slows as water warms.
Rock Creek — June
Terrestrials begin — Ants (#18), Foam Beetles (#14). Fresh stockers still around.
Truckee River — June
Caddis, early Terrestrials; runoff may affect flows
East Walker River — June
Caddis, Terrestrials, Streamers for large browns
West Walker River — June
Caddis, Terrestrials; summer low water begins
East Fork Carson River — June
Caddis, Terrestrials
Lamoille Creek — June
Caddis, PMD; flows stabilize, best summer access begins
South Fork Humboldt River — June
Caddis, Terrestrials; irrigation withdrawals may lower flows
Guadalupe River — June
Foam Beetle (#12–14), Chubby Chernobyl; bass poppers; Streamers
Llano River — June
Foam Beetles (#12–14), Hoppers (#8–10), Foam Ants; dawn/dusk poppers
Blanco River — June
Foam Beetles (#12–14), Foam Ants; carp sight-fishing excellent in clear low water
Pedernales River — June
Terrestrials; dawn/dusk poppers; check gauge — river can go intermittent
Frio River — June
Foam Ants (#14); Foam Beetles; small Streamers; tube traffic heaviest on weekends
South Llano River — June
Foam Beetles; Hoppers; small Wooly Buggers; dawn/dusk only for bass
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — June
Sulfurs; Caddis; Light Cahills emerging; small streamers
Cahaba River — June
Foam Beetles (#12–14); Hoppers; Poppers; full terrestrial program
Little River Canyon — June
Caddis tapering; Poppers; Foam Beetles; Hoppers starting
Tallapoosa River — June
Caddis; Foam Beetles; Poppers; trout fishing tougher as flows warm
Paint Rock River — June
Foam Beetles (#12–14); Poppers; Hoppers starting; full topwater
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — June
Foam Beetles (#12–14); Poppers; Hoppers; Warrior redeye on drys
Blue River — June
Sulfurs tapering; Caddis; Midges; small Streamers; warmer water — fish dawn/dusk
Mountain Fork River — June
Sulfurs; Caddis tapering; Midges; Elk Hair Caddis evenings; check release schedule
Illinois River — June
Hoppers; Poppers; Foam Beetles; topwater all day on cooler stretches
Baron Fork — June
Hoppers; Poppers; Foam Beetles; full topwater on boulder-pool smallmouth
Glover River — June
Hoppers; Poppers; Foam Beetles; topwater on every ledge pool
Kiamichi River — June
Hoppers; Poppers; Foam Beetles; full topwater on largemouth and smallmouth
July Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — July
PMDs dominant (size 16-18) hatching 9-11am — Parachute PMD or Sparkle Dun. Caddis at dusk. Tricos (size 20-24) early morning on slower stretches. Terrestrials starting.
Arkansas River — July
Flows dropping post-runoff — prime fishing window opening. Caddis (size 14-16) active. PMDs (size 16-18) beginning mid-morning. Gold Medal water at its best.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Tricos (size 22-24) early morning. Terrestrials (ants, beetles, small hoppers) mid-day. Fish early to beat afternoon heat. First 2 miles below dam are coolest in summer.
Blue River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Mysis shrimp year-round — especially effective when nothing appears to be hatching. Summer weekend crowds — fish early morning or evening.
Bear Creek — July
Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14). Caddis (size 14-16). Terrestrials (ants #18, beetles) mid-day. Summer prime time if flows are 20-80 CFS sweet spot.
Colorado River — July
Post-runoff flows dropping. PMDs (size 14-16) emerging. Caddis (size 14-16). Green Drakes (size 10-12) BEGINNING — watch for this iconic hatch.
Frying Pan River — July
PMDs dominant (size 16-18) hatching 9-11am — Parachute PMD or Sparkle Dun. Caddis at dusk. Fish are extremely selective in summer. Smaller fly and finer tippet often wins.
Roaring Fork River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Upper Fork near Aspen excellent. Green Drakes (size 10-12) possible in July.
Cache la Poudre River — July
Prime fishing post-runoff. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14). Wild trout in the Gold Medal section above Rustic. One of the Poudre's best months.
Taylor River — July
PMDs dominant (size 16-18) morning hatches. Caddis evenings. Large selective trout require precise presentations — 5X minimum, technical dead drifts. This is the Taylor at full glory.
Gunnison River — July
Post-runoff prime time. Green Drakes (size 10-12) emerging — Gunnison is one of Colorado's premier Green Drake rivers. PMDs (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Pack in via Gorge trails.
Eagle River — July
Post-runoff prime time. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Golden Stoneflies still possible early July. Good hatches near Gypsum that most anglers ignore.
Yampa River — July
Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) morning. Salmonfly late stragglers possible early July. The Yampa in July is at its best and sees a fraction of Front Range pressure.
Rio Grande — July
Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) active. PMDs (size 16-18). Streamer fishing for large browns. Gold Medal section near Wagon Wheel Gap at its absolute best in July.
Crystal River — July
Prime dry fly season. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14) mid-afternoon. PMDs (size 16-18) possible. Stunning canyon setting, wild trout, minimal pressure.
Dolores River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Summer fishing depends on McPhee reservoir release levels — check CFS before making the long drive from Durango.
North Platte River — July
Prime fishing post-runoff. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Golden Stonefly stragglers possible. Northgate Canyon Gold Medal section open — artificial flies and lures only. Wild browns are exceptional.
Slate River — July
Prime small-stream dry fly season. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sally Stonefly (size 14). PMDs (size 16-18). Wild browns, rainbows, and brook trout in classic alpine pocket water. Crested Butte's best month.
San Juan River — July
Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in evenings. Green Drakes (size 10-12) possible through the Pagosa canyon stretch — one of the more reliable Southwest Colorado Green Drake rivers. PMDs mid-morning.
Animas River — July
Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Golden Stoneflies possible early July. Gold Medal from Lightner Creek to Purple Cliffs fishes exceptionally well.
East River — July
Prime season. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs (size 16-18). Green Drakes possible (size 10-12) — East River is one of the better small-stream Green Drake waters in the Gunnison drainage. Wild cutthroat respond to big dry flies.
Fraser River — July
Post-runoff prime time. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Wild brown trout in the US-40 corridor reach. St. Louis Creek Campground is the primary access point.
Dream Stream — July
PMDs dominant (size 16-18) morning. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (ants #18-20) starting. Summer crowds peak — arrive before 7am for the best water. Afternoon wind on the open meadow makes presentations challenging.
Gore Creek — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) possible — Gore Creek is known for its Green Drake hatch in summer. Walk east toward East Vail on the rec path for solitude. Summer crowds peak near town.
Cheesman Canyon — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. The 5-mile hike deters crowds — fish are noticeably less pressured than any other Gold Medal South Platte section. Terrestrials effective on canyon walls.
Williams Fork River — July
PMDs mid-morning (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Terrestrials mid-day. Williams Fork in July has almost no competition — most Grand County anglers are on the Colorado River or Blue. Consistently productive.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — July
Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) beginning — this is one of Colorado's premier Green Drake float fisheries. Big attractor dries taking large fish.
Conejos River — July
Caddis (size 14-16) heavy evenings. PMDs possible (size 16-18). BWOs on overcast days. Hoppers starting along meadow banks. Wild cutthroat respond to attractor dries in July. This is the prime month.
San Miguel River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Hoppers starting along canyon banks. CO-145 corridor gives good access to mid-river sections. Stunning canyon scenery — pack a camera. Check lower water temps.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — July
Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs possible (size 16-18). Hoppers starting along lake outlet meadow sections. Brown trout feeding actively. CO-149 pullouts provide good access. Flows dropping toward optimal.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — July
PMDs dominant (size 16-18) hatching 9-11am. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Midges year-round. Trico spinners (size 22-24) possible in slower flats. Prime summer fishing.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Midges year-round. Trophy brown trout water — concentrate on deep runs and undercut banks.
Snake River — July
Post-runoff prime season opening. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Green Drakes (size 10-12) possible. Snake River Finespotted Cutthroat surface feeding.
Green River — Fontenelle — July
PMDs dominant (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Trico spinners (size 22-24) in flats. Prime summer fishing on the upper Green.
Shoshone River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Public access points along the river make it angler-friendly.
Bighorn River — July
PMDs dominant (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Trico spinners (size 22-24) in flats — selective fish, 6X tippet required. Big rainbows surface feeding.
Laramie River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Agricultural valley sections accessible and productive.
New Fork River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (size 14-16). Yellow Sallies (size 14). Pinedale-area public access excellent.
Hoback River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Cutthroat trout in the canyon — beautiful technical pocket water.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Cutthroat and browns in canyon pocket water — quiet alternative to the Shoshone.
Salt River — July
Caddis continuing (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) at peak — mid-morning sippers in classic riffle-and-run water. Yellow Sallies. Native Snake River cutthroat in meadow flats.
Green River — July
PMDs (size 14-18) dominant — mid-morning sippers in the riffles and slicks. Green Drakes tapering early month. Midges always. Tricos (size 22-24) starting on slower flats. Section B drift trips productive at higher flows.
Provo River (Middle) — July
PMDs (size 16-18) at peak — Middle Provo PMDs are some of the best in Utah. Caddis evenings. Hopper-dropper rigs starting. Higher releases (often 400–700 CFS) make wading challenging — fish from the bank or float.
Weber River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Higher irrigation releases continue. Lower Weber through Ogden Canyon distinct water — pair with the Ogden gauge.
Ogden River — July
PMDs continue (size 12-16). Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Green Drakes still active. Hopper-dropper rigs starting. Pineview releases stable through summer.
Strawberry River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-18) mid-morning. Yellow Sallies (size 14-16) emerging. Caddis evenings. Green Drakes continuing. Big browns to 27 inches documented in the long deep pools.
Logan River — July
Post-runoff prime season — best dry-fly month. CADDIS (size 14-16) dominant in evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). PMDs (size 14-18) mid-morning. Green Drakes early month. Brookies and cutthroat in upper reaches above 3rd Dam.
Bear River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Big-river fishing — better access than it appears on a map thanks to braided channels. Less pressured than Green or Provo.
Beaver River — July
Post-runoff prime season. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Yellow Sallies. Trophy Trout program rainbows and browns to 20+ inches in the right water.
Fremont River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) dominant. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies continuing. Stoneflies tapering early month. Bicknell Bottoms to Torrey is the trophy section — biggest fish concentrate here.
East Fork Sevier River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) dominant — best dry-fly month. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers starting (size 8-12). Trout density excellent in the protected canyon reach.
Oak Creek — July
WARNING — water temps regularly exceed 68°F mid-day. Catch-and-release anglers should fish only at dawn or skip Oak Creek through August. Monsoon thunderstorms can color the water and spike flows. Hoppers (size 10-14) when fishable.
West Fork Oak Creek — July
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Cool canyon shading and spring water keep West Fork fishable into mid-summer — a real advantage over the main stem. Monsoon storms can flash flood the slot canyon — DO NOT enter the canyon if rain is forecast upstream.
East Fork Black River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) at peak — best dry fly month. Caddis evenings. GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) hatching mid-month — iconic Black River event. Yellow Sallies (size 14-16). Monsoon thunderstorms can spike flows late month.
West Fork Black River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14-16). Apache Trout aggressive — catch-and-release only. Monsoon thunderstorms a factor.
North Fork White River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Tailwater dynamic below Hon-Dah — release schedules dominate. Monsoon thunderstorms can spike flows.
Canyon Creek — July
PMDs (size 16-18) dominant. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Spring-fed inputs keep Canyon Creek cooler than other Mogollon Rim streams in summer. Monsoon thunderstorms a factor.
Tonto Creek — July
WARNING — water temperatures regularly climb past 68°F mid-day below the springs. Fish dawn only. Monsoon thunderstorms can color the water and spike flows. Hoppers (size 10-14) when fishable.
Silver Creek — July
PMDs (size 16-18) continue. TRICOS (size 22-24) starting on slower flats — early morning spinner falls. Caddis evenings. Hot afternoons even at 6,500 feet — fish early.
East Clear Creek — July
PMDs (size 16-18) dominant. Caddis evenings. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Spring-fed pools stay cool — one of the Mogollon Rim's more reliable summer waters. Monsoon thunderstorms a factor.
Little Colorado River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning — best dry fly action. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Monsoon thunderstorms can spike flows and color the water.
Chevelon Creek — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Monsoon thunderstorms a factor — flash flood risk in the canyon.
San Juan River — July
PMDs dominant (size 18-20). Caddis (size 16-18) evenings. Midges always. Trico spinners (size 22-24) in flats — selective fish. Ant patterns productive on Quality Waters.
Rio Grande — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 8-12) starting late month. Hot in the gorge — fish early and late. Wild browns in pocket water.
Rio Chama — July
PMDs dominant (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Hoppers (size 8-12) starting late month. Hot afternoons — fish early in the red-rock canyon.
Cimarron River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Pocket water in the canyon — perfect dry fly water for new anglers.
Pecos River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Wilderness fishing for native cutthroat at its best — hike in for solitude.
Brazos River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Big wild browns in the canyon — technical, remote fishing.
Red River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Stocked rainbows plus wild browns in deeper pools.
Jemez River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hoppers (size 10-14) starting. Hot afternoons — fish early in the canyon. Stocked rainbows plus wild browns.
Gila River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Monsoon afternoon thunderstorms common — flows can blow out for a day or two then settle. Hot — fish early and stay hydrated.
Henry's Fork — July
PMDs (size 14-16) dominant — Henry's Fork PMDs are world-famous. Caddis evenings. Green Drakes tapering. Selective rainbows on Harriman Ranch require 6X tippet and precise drifts. Crowded but worth it.
South Fork Snake River — July
PMDs (size 14-16) dominant — mid-morning hatches over rising fish. Golden Stones tapering. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Native Yellowstone Cutthroat surface feeding through Swan Valley.
Silver Creek — July
PMDs continue (size 18-20). Tricos (size 22-24) at peak — early morning spinner falls bring selective rainbows to the surface. Callibaetis still productive. 6X-7X tippet, long leaders, precise drifts.
Big Wood River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Pocket water through Ketchum at its best — hopper-dropper rigs productive.
South Fork Boise River — July
PINK ALBERT (size 14-16) hatch peaks — the South Fork Boise's signature PMD hatch is iconic. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Hopper-dropper rigs starting to produce.
Salmon River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning — high-elevation timing means peak PMDs in July/August. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies. Cutthroat in the upper river surface feeding.
Clearwater River — July
Post-runoff prime season for resident trout. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Native cutthroat in lower river runs. Hot afternoons — fish early.
Lochsa River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Golden Stones tapering. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Native west-slope cutthroat in pocket water — sight fishing prime.
Teton River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) dominant — peak hatch month for technical sight fishing. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. HOPPER SEASON starting (size 8-12) — Teton cutthroat hammer hoppers in the meadows.
Fall River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Wild cutthroat and browns surface feeding — less pressure than Henry's Fork.
St. Joe River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Native west-slope cutthroat in pocket water and pools above Prospector Creek.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — July
Post-runoff prime season for resident trout. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Cutthroat through the Wild & Scenic stretches. Hot afternoons — fish early.
Selway River — July
Post-runoff prime season. Golden Stones (size 6-8) continuing early month. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Native west-slope cutthroat in pocket water — sight fishing prime.
Boise River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) at peak — mid-morning sippers. Caddis evenings. Hopper-dropper rigs starting. Higher releases continue. Fish early or late to avoid summer crowds and heat through the urban corridor.
Madison River — July
PMDs (size 14-16) dominant — mid-morning hatches over rising fish in the riffles. Golden Stones tapering early month. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Upper Madison through Quake Lake at its best.
Missouri River — July
PMDs (size 14-16) continuing — mid-morning sippers. Caddis evenings. TRICOS (size 22-24) starting late month — early-morning spinner falls. Hot afternoons but cool tailwater stays productive.
Yellowstone River — July
Post-runoff prime season opening. Salmonflies tapering early month. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Native Yellowstone Cutthroat surface feeding through Paradise Valley.
Big Hole River — July
Post-runoff prime season early month. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). HOOT-OWL RESTRICTIONS COMMON late month at 73°F+ — fish dawn and dusk only. Grayling stressed in heat.
Bitterroot River — July
Post-runoff prime season. Golden Stones tapering. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Hoot-owl restrictions possible in hot afternoons — fish early.
Clark Fork River — July
Post-runoff prime season. Golden Stones tapering. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Long miles of wadeable riffle through Missoula corridor.
Blackfoot River — July
Post-runoff prime season. Golden Stones tapering. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Native Westslope Cutthroat in pocket water — sight fishing prime.
Gallatin River — July
Post-runoff prime season. Salmonflies tapering. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Wade-only river — perfect roadside pocket water along Highway 191.
Flathead River — July
Post-runoff prime season. Salmonflies tapering. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning — high-elevation timing means peak July. Caddis evenings. Native Westslope Cutthroat in pocket water — sight fishing prime.
Smith River — July
Float season continuing. PMDs (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. HOPPERS (size 8-12) starting late month. Hot afternoons in the canyon — fish dawn and dusk. Permit lottery winners only.
Rock Creek — July
Post-runoff prime season. Salmonflies tapering. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Wade-only — single barbless hooks in upper sections.
Stillwater River — July
Post-runoff prime season. Salmonflies tapering. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning — high-elevation peak. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies.
Boulder River — July
Post-runoff prime season. Salmonflies tapering. Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). Quiet alternative to nearby Yellowstone and Stillwater.
Sun River — July
Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies (size 14). High-plains tailwater fishing — beautiful Rocky Mountain Front backdrop, light pressure.
Ruby River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) at peak — selective brown trout in the meadow stretches. Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) starting late month. Hot afternoons — fish early.
Rapidan River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, small hoppers #12-14). Tricos (size 22-26) early mornings on slower water. Yellow Sally evenings. Hot — fish early or in shaded headwaters.
South River — July
Tricos (size 22-26) early mornings. Terrestrials (ants/beetles/hoppers) midday. Caddis evenings. Water temps approaching marginal in afternoons — practice C&R care.
Jackson River — July
Tricos (size 22-26) at peak — early-morning spinner falls in flat tailwater pools. Caddis evenings. Sulphurs winding down. Sight-fishing to selective sippers.
North Fork Shenandoah River — July
White Fly (size 12-14) HEAVY on lower river at dusk — signature NF Shenandoah hatch. Hopper season for smallmouth. Trout sections marginal — fish dawn/evening.
Bullpasture River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Tricos (size 22-26) on slower meadow stretches. Cool limestone water keeps fishing strong all month.
Maury River — July
Terrestrials prime. Tricos (size 22-26) on slower stretches. Yellow Sally evenings. Water can warm — fish early mornings, especially in lower gorge.
Rose River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18). Yellow Sally. Wild brookies happy with small dry-dropper rigs in plunge pools. Cool headwaters fish well in summer heat.
Conway River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18). Yellow Sally. Cool headwaters keep fishing strong all summer. Hike in for solitude.
Passage Creek — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers). Yellow Sally evenings. Cool limestone water keeps fishing strong all summer in the shadow of Massanutten.
Davidson River — July
Tricos (size 22-26) early mornings. Terrestrials (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18) prime midday. Caddis evenings. Selective tailwater-like fishing in summer.
Watauga River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants/beetles/hoppers). Yellow Sally evenings. Cool elevation makes Watauga an excellent summer refuge when Davidson and others get warm.
Nantahala River — July
Sulphurs continuing into July — unique to Nantahala. Tricos (size 22-26) early mornings. Caddis evenings. Cold tailwater stays fishable when surrounding NC streams warm.
New River (North Carolina) — July
Hopper season starting — New River smallmouth crush hoppers (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Trout headwaters slowing as water warms.
Oconaluftee River — July
YELLOW SALLY continuing strong (size 14-16). Terrestrials (ants/beetles/small hoppers) building. Cool elevation water fishes well all summer.
French Broad River — July
Tricos (size 22-26) early mornings on slower stretches. Terrestrials prime midday. Caddis evenings. Water can warm in lower reaches — fish dawn or evening.
Cataloochee Creek — July
YELLOW SALLY continuing (size 14-16). Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18). Cool elevation water fishes all summer — Cataloochee Valley solitude unmatched.
Linville River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally evenings. Hot summer — fish early mornings, especially in the gorge bottom.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — July
Tricos (size 22-26) at peak — early-morning spinner falls in the lower stretches. Caddis evenings. Sulphurs winding down. Cold tailwater = summer refuge.
Little River — July
YELLOW SALLY continuing strong into July (size 14-16). Terrestrials (ants/beetles/small hoppers) building. Cold elevation water keeps fishing strong all summer.
Tellico River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally evenings. Caddis. Cool Cherokee NF water keeps fishing strong all summer.
Cranberry River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally. Cold mountain water keeps fishing strong all summer.
South Branch Potomac River — July
Terrestrials prime — Smoke Hole canyon hopper fishing exceptional (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Smallmouth on poppers and crayfish. Trout fishing in cooler limestone reaches.
Elk River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally evenings. Tricos on slower stretches. Cold rhododendron-shaded headwaters fish all summer.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally evenings. High-elevation cold water keeps fishing strong all summer — pure brookie water.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — July
Terrestrials prime — Smoke Hole Canyon hopper fishing exceptional (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Cool limestone seeps keep canyon sections fishable through summer heat.
Williams River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Yellow Sally evenings. Cool Mon NF water keeps fishing strong all summer.
Greenbrier River — July
Terrestrials prime — Pocahontas County hopper fishing exceptional. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sally. Cold limestone seeps keep sections fishable through summer heat.
Beaverkill River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). TRICO (size 22-26) mornings on slower flats. Yellow Sally (size 16) evenings.
Willowemoc Creek — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). TRICO (size 22-26) mornings on slower flats. Yellow Sally (size 16) evenings.
East Branch Delaware River — July
Sulphurs continuing into July (tailwater extension). TRICO (size 22-24) midsummer. Terrestrials prime. BWOs (size 20) on cloudy days year-round in tailwater.
West Branch Delaware River — July
Sulphurs continuing (tailwater extension). Caddis evenings. Summer terrestrials highly effective on warm afternoons. Wild browns of 20+ inches surface-feed regularly.
Esopus Creek — July
Terrestrials prime. ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) starting late summer — Esopus signature hatch. Trico mornings on slower stretches.
Schoharie Creek — July
Terrestrials prime. Isonychia starting late summer. Cold spring-fed tributaries above hold wild brookies — solitude away from marquee Catskill crowds.
Neversink River — July
Terrestrials prime (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Trico (size 22-26) mornings. Yellow Sally evenings.
Rondout Creek — July
Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Cold spring-fed character keeps small water fishable in summer.
Ausable River (East Branch) — July
Terrestrials prime. ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) starting. Caddis evenings. Stoneflies. Cold High Peaks water keeps fishing strong all summer.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — July
Terrestrials prime. ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) starting. Caddis evenings. Cold High Peaks tributaries keep main stem fishable in summer heat.
Saranac River — July
Terrestrials prime. ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) starting. Caddis evenings. Cold Adirondack water keeps fishing strong.
Raquette River — July
Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Stoneflies. Cold Adirondack lake outflows keep wild trout sections fishable in summer heat.
Black River (upper) — July
Terrestrials prime. ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) starting. Caddis evenings. Moose River drainage tributaries hold native brookies.
Penns Creek — July
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings — flat-water technical fishing. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Yellow Sally (size 16). Caddis evenings.
Spring Creek — July
TRICO peak (size 22-26) mornings — technical flat-water fishing. Terrestrials. BWOs cloudy days. Cold spring source keeps Spring fishable in summer heat.
Big Fishing Creek — July
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings on slower stretches. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings.
Little Juniata River — July
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Spruce Creek corridor — respect private leases, fish public access.
Yellow Breeches Creek — July
TRICO PEAK (size 22-26) mornings — among the most famous Trico hatches in the Eastern US. Cloud-like spinner falls. Terrestrials. BWOs cloudy days.
Tulpehocken Creek — July
Terrestrials prime (ants, beetles, small hoppers). Caddis evenings. BWOs cloudy days. Tailwater stays cold when freestones warm — fishable mid-summer.
Brodhead Creek — July
SLATE DRAKE (size 12-14) — Pocono summer signature hatch. Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sally (size 16).
Bushkill Creek — July
Terrestrials prime — small water responds well to ants and beetles. Caddis evenings. Flows dropping fast — pick days carefully.
Loyalsock Creek — July
SLATE DRAKE (size 12-14) — summer signature hatch. Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Worlds End State Park access.
Pine Creek — July
SLATE DRAKE (size 12-14). Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Cedar Run and Slate Run tributaries (no dedicated gauges) hold native brookies.
Kettle Creek — July
Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings. Stoneflies. Flows dropping into the summer drawdown — pick days carefully.
Young Womans Creek — July
TERRESTRIALS prime — ants, beetles, small hoppers. Native brookies hammer attractor dries. Flows critical — check gauge before driving.
Battenkill River — July
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings — flat-water technical fishing for wild browns. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Light Cahill continuing.
White River — July
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings on slower stretches. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Native brookies in upper reaches and Branches.
Mad River — July
TRICO (size 22-26) mornings on slower stretches. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Heavy summer ski-country recreation on the river — fish early.
Lamoille River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Sulphurs tapering. Lower reaches near Jeffersonville hold larger fish.
Winooski River — July
PMD (size 16) mornings. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Lower reaches toward Burlington warm — fish upper sections only.
Dog River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials starting. Flows dropping fast — pick days carefully on this small water.
Black River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Sulphurs tapering. Less pressure than the Battenkill corridor.
West River — July
TRICO (size 22-24) mornings on slower water. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Cold tailwater keeps fish active in summer heat.
Williams River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials starting. Flows dropping — pick days carefully.
Missisquoi River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Sulphurs tapering. Cold headwaters hold native brookies in summer heat.
West Branch Penobscot — July
HEXAGENIA (size 6-8) — late June into early July, the iconic dusk emergence on flatter pools. Caddis evenings. Salmon active.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Wild brook trout active in cooler tailwater seams.
Kennebec River – The Forks — July
Sulphurs tapering. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Releases dictate the day — fish low-water windows.
Dead River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Useful low-water option when Kennebec is blown out.
Sandy River — July
PMDs continue. TRICO (size 22-24) mornings. Terrestrials prime. Caddis evenings.
Carrabassett River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Heritage Brook Trout water in upper reaches.
Magalloway River — July
Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Wild brookies and salmon active.
Narraguagus River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Tide-influenced lower river — fish the freshwater push.
Rapid River — July
Caddis evenings. Hare's Ear nymphs. Sulphurs. Terrestrials starting. Above 900 CFS the river becomes unfishable.
Roach River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Small river — flows often dropping.
Kennebago River — July
Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Freestone flows dependent on rain.
Ellis River — July
Sulphurs tapering. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Watch flows — small drainage drops fast.
Swift River — July
Sulphurs tapering. TRICO (size 22-24) mornings. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime.
Saco River — July
Sulphurs tapering. TRICO (size 22-24) mornings. Caddis evenings. Tubing pressure heavy mid-day — fish early.
Androscoggin River — July
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials prime. Cold water from Lake Umbagog keeps temps fishable.
Pemigewasset River — July
Sulphurs tapering. TRICO mornings. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Best wading 200–600 CFS.
Wild River — July
Caddis evenings. Stoneflies. Terrestrials prime. Excellent low-water option when other rivers run high.
Ammonoosuc River — July
Sulphurs tapering. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials prime. Upper river near Twin Mountain stays cold.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — July
Sulphurs continuing (tailwater extension). PMDs. Caddis. Terrestrials. Tailwater stays cold all summer — fishable when everything else is blown out.
Smith River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows — small water drops fast.
Cold River — July
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Tight canopy technical dries.
Deerfield River — July
Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Tailwater stays cold even in summer heat — fish dawn and dusk between releases.
Swift River — July
TRICO PEAK (size 22-24) mornings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Cold tailwater = best summer trout water in MA.
Westfield River — July
Light Cahill continues. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows — freestone drops fast.
West Branch Westfield River — July
Light Cahill. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Freestone drops in summer.
East Branch Westfield River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Wild fish in gorge cold pools.
Millers River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows.
Squannacook River — July
TRICO (size 22-24) mornings. Sulphurs tapering. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials.
Nissitissit River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Spring-fed water stays cool.
Cold River — July
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Cold flow holds fish through summer.
Farmington River (MA Section) — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows — small MA section drops fast.
Ware River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Headwater spring seeps stay cool.
Farmington River — July
Sulphurs continuing. TRICOS (size 22-24) mornings. Terrestrials. Cold tailwater stays fishable.
Housatonic River — July
Isonychia continues. Sulphurs. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Cold tailwater stays productive.
Salmon River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Cold tailwater holds fish.
Willimantic River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Cold groundwater keeps fish active.
Natchaug River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Forest cover keeps water cool.
Shepaug River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Light leaders, careful wading.
Mad River — July
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows — small water sensitive to dry summers.
Bantam River — July
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Warming water — limited trout activity.
Blackledge River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Canopy and cold tributaries keep it fishable.
Jeremy River — July
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Tight quarters — careful approach.
Still River — July
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Wild brookies in cool upper pools.
Gunpowder Falls — July
TRICO PEAK (size 22-24) mornings — the second iconic Gunpowder hatch. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials.
Little Gunpowder Falls — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch water temps — stocked fish stress in heat.
Big Hunting Creek — July
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Cool forest cover keeps water fishable.
Savage River — July
Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Cold tailwater stays prime.
North Branch Potomac River — July
Sulphurs continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Cold tailwater stays productive.
Youghiogheny River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. High elevation keeps it cool.
Casselman River — July
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Native brookies in cold upper pockets.
Antietam Creek — July
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Spring-fed pools stay cool.
Catoctin Creek — July
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Limestone-tinged water stays cooler.
Patuxent River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Tailwater moderates summer temps.
Monocacy River — July
Warmwater dominant — limited trout activity in main stem.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch flows — gorge fishes best low-to-moderate.
Musconetcong River — July
TRICO (size 22-24) mornings on lower river. Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Limestone keeps it fishable.
Big Flat Brook — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Forest cover keeps water cool.
Pequest River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Watch water temps.
Paulinskill River — July
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Water warming — fish dawn/dusk.
Rockaway River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Tailwater moderates summer temps.
Ramapo River — July
Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Terrestrials. Water warming — fish dawn/dusk.
Wanaque River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Cold reservoir releases keep it cool.
Black River (Lamington River) — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Cold shaded pools hold fish.
Pequannock River — July
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Sulphurs tapering. Forest cover keeps it cool.
Deschutes River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy in evenings. Hot weather — fish dawn and dusk. Steelhead arriving in lower river.
McKenzie River — July
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Yellow Sallies. Drift boat prime time.
Metolius River — July
PMDs (size 14-16). Green Drakes tapering. Caddis. Selective rainbows demand precise drifts on 6X.
North Umpqua River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD — the legendary North Umpqua run begins. Fly-only corridor opens for swung flies.
Rogue River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. HALF-POUNDER STEELHEAD beginning in lower river — unique to Rogue, small steelhead under 20".
Williamson River — July
HEXAGENIA at peak — size 6-8 cream-colored mayflies, dusk emergence. PMDs continue. Caddis. Trophy redsides surface-feeding.
Crooked River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Hot weather but consistent tailwater flows. Hopper season opening.
Fall River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. Tricos starting (size 20-22). Hot weather but spring creek stays cool.
Sandy River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Hot weather — fish early/late.
Clackamas River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Hopper-dropper for resident trout.
Grande Ronde River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper season opening. Hot canyon water — early starts.
Wallowa River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper season. Bull trout aggressive on streamers.
John Day River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper season opening. Hot desert water — early starts on remote canyon water.
Sprague River — July
HEXAGENIA at peak (size 6-8). PMDs continue. Caddis. Trophy potential at dusk.
Wood River — July
HEXAGENIA at peak (size 6-8). PMDs continue. Caddis. Trophy redbands and browns at dusk.
Hosmer Lake — July
CALLIBAETIS at peak. DAMSELFLIES (size 10-12) — sight-fishing to cruising fish. Caddis evenings.
Yakima River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Hot canyon water — early starts and late evenings. Hopper-dropper productive.
Wenatchee River — July
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hopper season opening.
Methow River — July
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis. Yellow Sallies. Hopper season opening. Hot canyon water.
Skagit River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper season. Bull trout aggressive on streamers. Hot glacial water.
Skykomish River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Hopper-dropper for resident trout.
Stillaguamish River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Hopper-dropper for resident trout.
Sauk River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper season. Bull trout aggressive on streamers. Glacial flows stable.
Hoh River — July
Caddis. Cutthroat. Glacial flows stable. Hot summer — hatches limited.
Bogachiel River — July
Caddis. Cutthroat. Hot summer — hatches limited. Sea-run cutthroat beginning in lower river.
Queets River — July
Caddis. Cutthroat. Hot glacial water — early starts. Limited summer hatches.
Sol Duc River — July
Caddis. Cutthroat. Hot summer — hatches limited.
Snoqualmie River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Hopper-dropper for resident trout.
Spokane River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hopper season opening. Hot urban water.
Little Spokane River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. TRICOS starting (size 20-22). Hot weather but spring creek stays cool.
Naches River — July
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis. Yellow Sallies. Naches stays cooler than Yakima mainstem — good summer alternative.
Tucannon River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. Yellow Sallies. Hopper season opening. Hot canyon water.
Hat Creek — July
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Tricos (size 22-24) early morning. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (ants #18) productive afternoons.
Fall River — July
HEXAGENIA at peak — massive evening dry-fly emergence on the lower flats. PMDs continue. Tricos (size 22-24) early morning.
Pit River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hot canyon — start early.
McCloud River — July
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hot canyon — fish dawn and dusk.
Upper Sacramento River — July
PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hot canyon — start early.
Trinity River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. Yellow Sallies. Tailwater stays cool — quality summer fishing for rainbows.
Klamath River — July
Caddis. Hot lower river — most trout fishing shifts to tributaries. Watch for warm-water closures (release advisories common).
Feather River Low Flow Channel — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hot Sacramento Valley — channel tailwater is one of the few cool options.
Truckee River — July
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sallies. Hot canyon — fish dawn and dusk.
Little Truckee River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis. Cold tailwater stays fishable when nearby Sierra streams run too warm.
East Walker River — July
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Tricos (size 22-24) early morning. Caddis evenings. Hot desert sun — fish dawn and dusk.
West Walker River — July
PMDs continue. Caddis (size 14-16). Yellow Sallies. Best summer dry-fly fishing on the West Walker.
Lee Vining Creek — July
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Wild rainbows and browns aggressive in pocket water.
Owens River — July
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Tricos (size 22-24) early morning. Caddis evenings. Hot desert sun — fish dawn and dusk.
Hot Creek — July
PMDs continue (size 18-20). Tricos (size 22-24) early morning. Caddis evenings. Hot Creek's most demanding fish all year.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — July
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Wilderness fishing prime time.
Kings River — July
Golden Stones (size 6-8). PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Wilderness backcountry prime time.
Kern River — July
PMDs (size 14-16) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Golden Trout Wilderness prime season — the only place to fish for native California Goldens.
Russian River — July
Hot weather. Closures common — release advisories often in effect. Lower river not productive.
Au Sable River — July
HEX HATCH at peak through mid-July (size 4-6) — 10pm to 2am on the Holy Water. The most anticipated hatch in Midwest fly fishing. After Hex tapers: Light Cahills, Trico spinner falls (size 22-24) at dawn.
Au Sable North Branch — July
HEX HATCH on lower North Branch (size 4-6) when present — verify current locations. Light Cahills, Trico spinner falls early morning. Brook trout in headwaters.
Au Sable South Branch — July
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) — 10pm-2am. After Hex: Light Cahills, Trico spinner falls early morning (size 22-24). Long days, big nights.
Pere Marquette River — July
HEX HATCH at peak through mid-July (size 4-6) — overnight on the M-37 to Gleason's C&R section. After Hex: Light Cahills, Trico spinner falls.
Manistee River — July
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) overnight on the upper river. After Hex: Trico spinner falls early morning. Resident browns in technical summer flows.
Muskegon River — July
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) overnight. Some summer steelhead present below Croton — rare and sought. Trico spinner falls early morning.
Jordan River — July
Caddis (#14-16) all day. Light Cahills evenings. TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) early morning on slower flats. Technical summer fishing.
Boardman River — July
Caddis (#14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Summer fishing on cool upper reaches; lower river warming.
Betsie River — July
Caddis evenings. Resident trout fishing in cool upper reaches; lower river warming.
Pine River — July
Caddis (#14-16). Sulphurs continuing. Summer fishing on cool spring-fed sections.
Pigeon River — July
Caddis (#14-16). Summer brook trout fishing in cool, technical small-stream water.
Sturgeon River — July
Caddis (#14-16). Summer brookies in spring-fed sections.
Black River — July
Caddis (#14-16). Summer fishing on cool sections.
Two-Hearted River — July
Caddis (#14-16). Summer brookies in cold tannin water.
Fox River — July
Caddis (#14-16). Summer brookies.
Timber Coulee Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn 6-9am — classic Driftless event. Sulphurs continuing evenings. Terrestrials (ants, beetles, hoppers) productive mid-day.
West Fork Kickapoo River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs continuing evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
Kickapoo River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Warmer water than the small spring creeks — fish early/late.
Black Earth Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn — Black Earth is famous for them. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive. Special-reg section 18" minimum / 1-fish — most fish go back regardless.
Mt. Vernon Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Cold spring-creek flows hold up through summer.
Elk Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials.
Blue River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials.
Seas Branch — July
Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive (ants #16-20). Cold spring flows hold brook trout through summer.
Tomorrow River — July
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) — overnight 10pm-2am on deeper sections. After Hex: TRICO spinner falls dawn (size 22-24). Sulphurs evenings.
Wolf River — July
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) — overnight 10pm-2am, the defining Wolf River event. After Hex: Tricos and caddis. Above Hwy M on state license; below requires Menominee tribal permit.
Bois Brule River — July
HEX HATCH (size 4-6) at peak — but NIGHT FISHING PROHIBITED on the Brule. Fish to the last legal hour. Caddis and Sulphurs. Box Car Hole closes July 15.
Namekagon River — July
HEX HATCH at peak (size 4-6) — overnight 10pm-2am, the defining Namekagon event. After Hex: Tricos, caddis. Floats out of Cable and Hayward access prime water.
White River — July
HEX HATCH (size 4-6) overnight 10pm-2am. After Hex: caddis, sulphurs, terrestrials. Brook trout active in cold spring flows.
Prairie River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Caddis. Terrestrials productive.
Oconto River — July
HEX HATCH (size 4-6) overnight 10pm-2am on upper river. After Hex: caddis, terrestrials. Lower river warms — focus upper.
Root River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn 6-9am — classic SE MN Driftless event on tailwater reaches. Sulphurs continuing evenings. Terrestrials (ants, beetles, hoppers) productive mid-day.
South Branch Root River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
North Branch Root River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Cold spring flows hold up through summer.
Whitewater River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Slot-limit fishery.
North Fork Whitewater River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
Trout Run Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Slot-limit fishery — flagship MN special-reg water.
Rush Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
Straight River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive.
Knife River — July
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Baptism River — July
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Cascade River — July
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Temperance River — July
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Brule River — July
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Poplar River — July
Caddis evenings. Brook trout active. Cold tributary flows hold up through summer.
Upper Iowa River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn 6-9am — classic Driftless event. Sulphurs continuing evenings. Terrestrials (ants, beetles, hoppers) productive mid-day.
Yellow River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive mid-day.
Volga River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive.
Turkey River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Larger water than the small spring creeks — holds bigger browns.
Bloody Run Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cold spring flows hold up through summer.
Paint Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cold spring flows hold fish through summer.
Bear Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cold spring flows hold up through summer.
North Fork Maquoketa River — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive.
Waterloo Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cold spring flows hold up through summer.
French Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive.
Village Creek — July
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive.
White River — July
Tricos (size 22-24) morning spinner falls — classic White River event. Sulphurs continuing evenings. Caddis. Midges. Scuds.
North Fork River — July
Sulphurs continuing evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Midges. Scuds. Smaller water than the White — fishes earlier after generation drops.
Little Red River — July
Sulphurs continuing evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Midges. Scuds. Hydropeaking peaks with summer power demand.
Spring River — July
Sulphurs continuing evenings. Caddis (size 14-16). Midges. Scuds. Cold spring water at 58°F when surface waters across the South are too warm to fish.
Crooked Creek — July
Caddis evenings. Midges. Water warms in summer — focus shaded reaches and tributary mouths.
Chagrin River — July
Hex (size 6-8) at peak on warmer evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) dawn. Terrestrials. Water warms — focus upper river and tribs.
Grand River — July
Hex evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) dawn. Terrestrials. Focus upper river as lower warms.
Rocky River — July
Light summer fishery — primarily a steelhead river. Caddis, terrestrials.
Vermilion River — July
Light summer — water can run extremely low. Terrestrials.
Conneaut Creek — July
Light summer. Terrestrials.
Cuyahoga River — July
Light summer. Terrestrials.
Ashtabula River — July
Light summer. Terrestrials.
Mad River — July
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn spinner falls. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials productive in farm country.
Big Darby Creek — July
Smallmouth top-water peak — poppers, divers, crayfish. Terrestrials productive.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — July
Caddis evenings. Midges. Water warms — focus reservoir release windows.
Current River — July
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn spinner falls. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Spring-fed flows stay cold while surrounding streams warm up.
Jacks Fork River — July
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Alley Spring keeps the Fork cold through summer drought.
Eleven Point River — July
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn spinner falls — exceptional on the Eleven Point. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials.
North Fork of White River — July
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn spinner falls. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials. Cold spring water keeps fish active.
Huzzah Creek — July
Caddis evenings. Midges. Spring-fed flows stay cool through summer.
Gasconade River — July
Caddis evenings. Smallmouth strong on the lower river. Trout reach holds with cooler spring inputs.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — July
Tricos (size 22-24) early-morning spinner falls on slower flats. Sulphurs continue evenings. Terrestrials (beetles, ants size 14-18) productive mid-day. Watch water temps in summer heat.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — July
Tricos (size 22-24) early-morning. Sulphurs evenings. Terrestrials (beetles, ants size 14-18) effective mid-day on the wild trout.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — July
Tricos possible on slower flats. Sulphurs continue. Terrestrials (beetles, ants size 14-18) productive mid-day. Watch summer water temps.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — July
Tricos possible on slower stretches. Sulphurs continue. Terrestrials (beetles, ants size 14-18) productive on the wilderness streams.
Soque River — July
Tricos (size 22-24) early-morning on the slower flats. Sulphurs continue. Terrestrials (beetles, ants size 14-18) productive mid-day.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — July
Sulphurs continue evenings. Tan caddis afternoons. Terrestrials starting. Watch generation schedule — pulses can be dangerous mid-river.
Kenai River — July
Sockeye salmon at peak — flesh and egg patterns become productive for rainbows. ⚠️ Late-run king salmon FULLY CLOSED (no fishing, no C&R) through Aug 15 per 2026 ADF&G emergency order. Big rainbows feed heavily on salmon eggs and fry.
Russian River — July
PEAK SOCKEYE RUN. Parking lot fills by 5 AM. Flesh and pink flies for sockeye; rainbows beginning to feed on eggs in side channels. The most heavily fished sockeye stream in Alaska.
Anchor River — July
Sea-run Dolly Varden arrive — fish swing flies and small streamers on the lower river. Dollies remain through fall.
Gulkana River — July
PEAK GRAYLING MONTH on dry flies. Elk-hair caddis (size 14-16), Humpies, Wooly Worms. Sockeye continuing. Standard 47-mile Paxson-to-Sourdough float in prime condition (Class II+ III/IV section).
Situk River — July
Salmon-driven trout fishery. Resident rainbows and cutthroat keying on salmon eggs. King salmon entering (verify 2026 SE emergency orders). Coastal Dollies abundant.
Naknek River — July
King salmon continuing. Sockeye at peak — Bristol Bay run is one of the largest in the world. Rainbow fishery building as salmon start dropping eggs.
Spearfish Creek — July
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers (#8–10), Ants, Foam Beetles; evening caddis
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants, Beetles; tailwater holds fish through summer heat
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants; summer pressure is high
Spring Creek — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants, Beetles; best summer fishing
Whitewood Creek — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants, Beetles
Castle Creek — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants; remote access means better fish
Cumberland River Tailwater — July
Midges, Scuds, Sowbugs. Low-light streamer fishing for trophy browns. Beat the heat early or late.
Hatchery Creek — July
Midges, Scuds, Sowbugs. Cold outflow keeps fish active through the heat.
Green River Tailwater — July
Terrestrials, Midges. Streamers for Walleye and Smallmouth — trout fishing slows in summer heat.
Barren River Tailwater — July
Midges, Terrestrials. Streamers for Walleye — trout fishing slows in summer heat.
Rockcastle River — July
Terrestrials dominate — Hoppers (#8–10), Foam Ants, Beetle patterns. Topwater poppers at dawn/dusk.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — July
Midges, Ants (#18–20). Fish early or late — middle of the day quiet.
Rock Creek — July
Terrestrials dominate — Hoppers (#10), Foam Ants, Beetles. Best summer fishing of the year.
Truckee River — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants, Beetles; streamer fishing for browns
East Walker River — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers (#8–10), Ants, Beetles; evening Caddis
West Walker River — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants; low clear water favors stealthy approach
East Fork Carson River — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants, Beetles
Lamoille Creek — July
Caddis peak, Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants; prime summer fishing
South Fork Humboldt River — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Ants; check gauge before driving
Guadalupe River — July
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers (#8–10), Foam Beetles; topwater for bass
Llano River — July
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers, Foam Ants, Beetles; small Poppers at dawn/dusk
Blanco River — July
Terrestrials; carp: Backstabber, Mop Flies; topwater for bass at dawn/dusk only
Pedernales River — July
Terrestrials only; Foam Beetles (#12), Hoppers (#8–10); pool-hopping if low
Frio River — July
Terrestrials; best fishing weekday mornings before tubers arrive
South Llano River — July
Foam Beetles; Hoppers; morning focus
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — July
Light Cahills (#14–16); Midges; small terrestrials in canyon
Cahaba River — July
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers, Foam Ants, Beetles; topwater bass
Little River Canyon — July
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers (#8–10), Foam Beetles; topwater bass
Tallapoosa River — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Foam Beetles; topwater redeye/bass at dawn/dusk
Paint Rock River — July
Terrestrials—Hoppers, Foam Ants, Beetles; sight-fishing in karst clarity
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — July
Terrestrials dominate—Hoppers, Beetles; aggressive redeye topwater
Blue River — July
Midges; Elk Hair Caddis evenings; small Terrestrials; Beetles in canyon shade
Mountain Fork River — July
Midges; Elk Hair Caddis (#14–16); small terrestrials; canyon shade key on hot days
Illinois River — July
Terrestrials dominate — Hoppers (#8–10), Foam Beetles; aggressive topwater bass
Baron Fork — July
Terrestrials — Hoppers, Beetles; sight-fish to pool smallmouth in clear water
Glover River — July
Terrestrials — Hoppers, Beetles; aggressive smallmouth and longear sunfish
Kiamichi River — July
Terrestrials — Hoppers, Beetles; topwater bass; catfish in deep holes at dusk
August Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Tricos (size 20-24) early morning. Caddis evening. Terrestrials (ants #18-20, beetles, hoppers) productive mid-day. Hot summer fishing.
Arkansas River — August
PMDs dominant (size 16-18) hatching 9-11am. Caddis in evenings. Tricos possible. Terrestrials productive. Royal Gorge and Bighorn Canyon excellent.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — August
Terrestrials productive (ants #18, beetles, small hoppers). Tricos (size 22-24) before 9am. PMDs tapering. City Park access makes this the most accessible summer fishery near Pueblo. Fish early.
Blue River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Mysis imitations. Consistent flows make Blue River reliable when summer thunderstorms muddy other rivers. Fish may be selective and pressured.
Bear Creek — August
Terrestrials (ants #18-20, beetles, small hoppers #12-14) productive. Caddis evenings. Fish early morning before summer heat and weekend crowds.
Colorado River — August
GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) at peak — one of the best dry fly hatches in all of Colorado. PMDs continue. Big fish rising to large flies. This is the month.
Frying Pan River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) possible in slower flats sections. Terrestrials mid-day. The Pan's trophy rainbows surface feed heavily in August.
Roaring Fork River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. Lower Fork near Glenwood has strong evening caddis action.
Cache la Poudre River — August
Caddis evenings (size 14-16). PMDs continue. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. Wild brown and rainbow trout respond well. Less crowded than South Platte options.
Taylor River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis in evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) possible in slower flats below Almont. Terrestrials mid-day. Prime summer fishing — book the Almont campsite early.
Gunnison River — August
Green Drakes possible mid-morning (size 10-12) — if you see large fish rising to big flies, this is why. PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Gold Medal Gorge fishing at its absolute best.
Eagle River — August
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings (size 14-16). Terrestrials (ants, hoppers, beetles) productive mid-day. Eagle near Wolcott and Gypsum is significantly overlooked compared to the Vail stretch.
Yampa River — August
Caddis dominant evenings. PMDs continue. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. Yampa brown trout respond aggressively to hoppers. Outstanding summer option well off the beaten path.
Rio Grande — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive. Upper Gold Medal section near Creede and South Fork has excellent public access and very low pressure.
Crystal River — August
Caddis evenings (size 14-16). Yellow Sally possible early August. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. Small stream character requires stealth — fish spook easily in clear water.
Dolores River — August
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants) mid-day. Lower flows post-peak irrigation make August–September excellent for wading. Red Canyon section particularly productive.
North Platte River — August
Caddis evenings. PMDs continue. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. North Park meadow stretch has undercut banks holding large browns. Virtually no pressure in August.
Slate River — August
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. Stealth essential in clear summer water. Brook trout respond well to small attractors. PMDs continue.
San Juan River — August
Green Drakes tapering. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. The San Juan through Pagosa sees surprisingly low pressure for such easy public access.
Animas River — August
Caddis dominant evenings. PMDs continue. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) mid-day. Durango is a fly fishing destination town — the Animas through town offers convenient Gold Medal access.
East River — August
Green Drakes tapering. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants) productive mid-day. Wild cutthroat and rainbows in Gothic section are pristine — high-altitude fish in a stunning alpine setting.
Fraser River — August
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. Tabernash and US-40 pullouts give roadside access to surprisingly underutilized fishing near Winter Park ski town.
Dream Stream — August
TERRESTRIALS PRIME — ants (#18-20), beetles, and hoppers along the meadow banks are effective for the largest fish. PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. August is when the biggest fish key on big flies. Wind almost always a factor.
Gore Creek — August
Green Drakes possible early August. PMDs continue (size 16-18). Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) mid-day. Vail summer crowds peak — arrive early or walk east toward Gore Creek Campground for less pressure and bigger fish.
Cheesman Canyon — August
PMDs continue. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) on open canyon walls. Caddis evenings. Crystal-clear water means full stealth approach — watch your shadow at all times.
Williams Fork River — August
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants) productive. Consistent tailwater flows year-round. One of Grand County's genuinely overlooked summer fisheries.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — August
GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) at peak or tapering. PMDs continue. HOPPERS (size 8-12) productive from the boat along grassy banks — some of the best hopper-dropper float fishing in the state. Caddis evenings.
Conejos River — August
Hoppers (size 8-12) productive along the banks — Conejos has excellent meadow sections for hopper fishing. Caddis evenings. Wild cutthroat taking attractor dries. Best month for the upper Platoro sections.
San Miguel River — August
Hoppers productive (size 8-12) mid-day in canyon sections. Caddis evenings. PMDs continue. WARNING: check water temperature in lower Naturita canyon — can warm above 68°F in August. Fish early morning.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — August
BEST MONTH — flows at seasonal low, big brown trout feeding aggressively ahead of spawn. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive along stream banks. Caddis evenings. Lake Fork in August: trophy browns in remote canyon country.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Tricos morning. Hoppers (size 8-12) along banks. The Reef fishes well all summer thanks to cold tailwater releases.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — August
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive — high desert grasshopper populations are huge. Trico spinners possible in flats.
Snake River — August
Hopper season peak (size 8-12) — Snake River cutthroat HAMMER hoppers. PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Best dry fly month on the Snake. Iconic Wyoming fly fishing.
Green River — Fontenelle — August
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Tricos morning. Hoppers (size 10-14) productive along sage banks. Excellent dry fly month.
Shoshone River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive. Terrestrials in general — beetles, ants. Hot afternoons but cool mornings.
Bighorn River — August
PMDs continue. Tricos morning. Caddis evenings. Hoppers (size 10-14) productive. Selective trout — match the hatch precisely or fail.
Laramie River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive in agricultural meadows — Laramie has classic hopper water. Terrestrials productive.
New Fork River — August
Hopper season peak (size 8-12) — sage country grasshoppers abundant. PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Best dry fly month on the New Fork.
Hoback River — August
Hopper season peak (size 8-12) — Hoback cutthroat hammer hoppers. PMDs continue. Green Drakes (size 10-12) possible. One of the best dry fly months in WY.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — August
PMDs continue (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12) — Clarks Fork canyon banks produce strong terrestrial fishing. Cool canyon water stays fishable in summer heat.
Salt River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12) — Salt River cutthroat hammer hoppers along the grassy meadow banks. Best dry fly month — quiet alternative to nearby Snake.
Green River — August
PMDs continue (size 14-18). TRICOS (size 22-24) at peak — early-morning spinner falls bring selective rainbows and browns to the surface. Terrestrials productive. The technical dry-fly fishing the Green is famous for.
Provo River (Middle) — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive along grassy banks. Tricos (size 22-24) possible on slower flats. Pressured but selective — match the hatch precisely.
Weber River — August
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive along the agricultural valleys. Selective fish in the canyon. Releases tapering by month's end.
Ogden River — August
PMDs continue. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive along canyon banks. Caddis (size 12-14) evenings. Terrestrials prime mid-day. Cool tailwater stays productive in summer heat.
Strawberry River — August
PMDs continue (size 14-18). Yellow Sallies. HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12) — Strawberry browns hammer terrestrials in the meadow stretches. Tribal license may be required in some sections — verify boundaries.
Logan River — August
CADDIS at peak (size 14-16) evenings — the signature summer hatch on the Logan. PMDs continue. Hoppers (size 8-12) starting in meadow stretches. Brown trout in lower canyon hammer terrestrials.
Bear River — August
PMDs continue. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive along agricultural banks of Cache Valley. Caddis evenings. Bonneville Cutthroat in select sections — careful release.
Beaver River — August
PMDs continue. HOPPER SEASON (size 8-12) productive — Tushar meadow stretches. Caddis evenings. Upper tributaries above Three Creeks Reservoir fish well in clear rushing water.
Fremont River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) starting on slower flats. River warms quickly below Torrey heading toward Lake Powell.
East Fork Sevier River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Hot afternoons — fish dawn and dusk. Cutthroat and brown trout sip in the long pools.
Oak Creek — August
Continued summer heat — fish dawn only or wait until October. Monsoon flows can blow out the canyon for days. Slide Rock and tourist crowds at peak. Plan for fall.
West Fork Oak Creek — August
Limited summer fishing — monsoon flash-flood risk dominates. Spring inputs keep some upper pools cool but the canyon hazard outweighs the reward most days. Plan for September.
East Fork Black River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12) — White Mountains grasshoppers everywhere. Tricos (size 22-24) starting on slower flats. Apache Trout aggressive on terrestrials.
West Fork Black River — August
HOPPER SEASON (size 8-12) — backcountry meadow stretches productive. PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Limited 4WD access keeps pressure low. Verify White Mountain Apache Tribe permits.
North Fork White River — August
PMDs continue. HOPPER SEASON (size 8-12) productive in meadow stretches. Caddis evenings. Tribal permit holders only — verify current rules.
Canyon Creek — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). HOPPER SEASON peak (size 10-14). Caddis evenings. Hot afternoons but spring-fed canyon stays productive. C&R section technical — long leaders, 6X tippet.
Tonto Creek — August
Continued summer heat — early morning only. Monsoon flows can blow out the creek for days. Wait for September. Travertine spring section near Natural Bridge runs cooler than the rest of the creek.
Silver Creek — August
TRICOS at peak (size 22-24) — early morning technical dry fly fishing for selective rainbows and browns. PMDs continue. Hoppers (size 10-14) productive along grassy banks. Monsoon afternoon thunderstorms a factor.
East Clear Creek — August
PMDs continue. HOPPER SEASON peak (size 10-14). Caddis evenings. Quiet, remote canyon fishing — fraction of the pressure of Oak Creek or Canyon Creek. Stream can run very low in drought years.
Little Colorado River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). HOPPER SEASON peak (size 10-14) — meadow grasshoppers everywhere. Tricos (size 22-24) on slower flats. Cool mornings, hot afternoons at 7,000+ feet.
Chevelon Creek — August
PMDs continue. HOPPER SEASON (size 10-14). Caddis evenings. Stream highly intermittent — upper sections can be completely dry in drought years. Verify conditions before the drive.
San Juan River — August
PMDs continue. Tricos morning. Caddis evenings. Midges. Hot afternoons but cold tailwater stays consistent. Selective trout — match the hatch precisely.
Rio Grande — August
Hopper season peak (size 8-12) — Rio Grande wild browns hammer terrestrials. PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Beetles, ants. Hot — fish dawn and dusk.
Rio Chama — August
Hopper season peak (size 8-12). PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Beetles, ants productive. Wild browns in the canyon hammer terrestrials.
Cimarron River — August
Hopper season peak (size 10-14). PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cimarron Canyon is at its best in late summer.
Pecos River — August
Hopper season peak (size 10-14) — high country grasshoppers everywhere. PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Best dry fly month for cutthroat in headwaters.
Brazos River — August
Hopper season peak (size 8-12) — Brazos browns hammer terrestrials in the canyon. PMDs continue. Best dry fly month. Limited access keeps pressure low.
Red River — August
Hopper season peak (size 10-14). PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Late summer at high elevation — cool mornings.
Jemez River — August
Hopper season peak (size 10-14). PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Hot — fish dawn and dusk.
Gila River — August
Hopper season (size 10-14) starting strong — Gila hoppers come early with the warm low-elevation country. PMDs continue. Terrestrials productive midday. Monsoon flows still a factor.
Henry's Fork — August
PMDs continue (size 14-16). TRICOS (size 22-24) at peak — Henry's Fork tricos are legendary, dawn spinner falls over flat water. Callibaetis (size 14-16) in slower sections. Match the hatch precisely.
South Fork Snake River — August
PMDs continue. Hopper season starting (size 8-12) — South Fork hoppers are legendary. Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) possible in slower flats. Cutthroat hammer terrestrials.
Silver Creek — August
TRICO SPINNER FALLS (size 22-24) — peak technical hatch month. Callibaetis (size 14-16). Hoppers (size 12-14) along the banks late month. Selective trout require you to match phase precisely (dun vs. spinner).
Big Wood River — August
PMDs continue. Hopper season peak (size 8-12) — meadow stretches especially productive. Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) possible in slower flats. Hot afternoons but cool mornings.
South Fork Boise River — August
Pink Alberts continue (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive. Higher irrigation flows still in effect. Selective rainbows in the canyon.
Salmon River — August
PMDs continue (size 14-16) — peak hatch month at Sawtooth elevations. Caddis evenings. HOPPER SEASON starting (size 8-12) — Salmon River cutthroat hammer hoppers. Native Yellowstone Cutthroat in the upper river.
Clearwater River — August
PMDs continue. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive — Clearwater valley grasshopper populations huge. Caddis evenings. Resident cutthroat fishing prime. Hot — fish dawn and dusk.
Lochsa River — August
PMDs continue. HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12) — Lochsa cutthroat hammer terrestrials in pocket water. Caddis evenings. Single barbless hooks required, all C&R. Best dry fly month.
Teton River — August
HOPPER SEASON PEAK (size 8-12). PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) in slower flats. Best dry fly month — meadow cutthroat surface feed all day.
Fall River — August
PMDs continue. HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Quiet alternative to Henry's Fork — equally good fishing, fewer anglers.
St. Joe River — August
PMDs continue. HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12) — St. Joe cutthroat hammer terrestrials. Caddis evenings. Single barbless hooks above Prospector Creek, all C&R for cutthroat. Best dry fly month.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — August
PMDs continue. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive. Caddis evenings. Native cutthroat fishing prime. Single barbless hooks in many stretches — check IDFG rules.
Selway River — August
PMDs continue (size 14-16). Caddis evenings. HOPPER SEASON starting (size 8-12) — Selway cutthroat hammer terrestrials in the Wild & Scenic corridor. Single barbless hooks in many stretches, all C&R. Hot afternoons — fish dawn and dusk.
Boise River — August
PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive along the grassy Greenbelt banks. Higher irrigation flows still in effect. Selective rainbows and browns in the urban tailwater.
Madison River — August
PMDs continue. HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12) — Madison Valley grasshoppers hammer the banks. Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) in slower flats below Ennis. Hot afternoons — fish dawn and dusk during hoot-owl restrictions.
Missouri River — August
TRICO SPINNER FALLS (size 22-24) at peak — iconic Missouri trico fishing in the flats. PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Hoppers (size 8-12) along grassy banks. Selective trout — match phase precisely.
Yellowstone River — August
PMDs continue. HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12) — Paradise Valley grasshoppers hammer the banks. Caddis evenings. Hot afternoons — hoot-owl restrictions common on the lower Yellowstone. Fish dawn and dusk.
Big Hole River — August
PMDs continue. Hoppers (size 8-12) productive. EMERGENCY CLOSURES POSSIBLE — Big Hole regularly closes mid-summer when temps exceed 73°F to protect Arctic Grayling. Check FWP daily before driving out.
Bitterroot River — August
PMDs continue. Hopper season peak (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Hot afternoons — hoot-owl restrictions common. Cool mornings and evenings best.
Clark Fork River — August
PMDs continue. Hopper season peak (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Hoot-owl restrictions common on lower Clark Fork in hot afternoons. Cool mornings, hot afternoons, dusk hatches.
Blackfoot River — August
PMDs continue. Hopper season peak (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Hoot-owl restrictions possible on hot afternoons. Native Bull Trout post-spawn — leave them alone, federally protected.
Gallatin River — August
PMDs continue. Hopper season peak (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Hot afternoons — fish early in the canyon. Cool mountain water stays productive longer than valley rivers.
Flathead River — August
PMDs continue (size 14-16). Hopper season peak (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Cool glacier-fed water stays productive in summer heat. Federally protected Bull Trout — release immediately.
Smith River — August
Float season closing typically mid-month. HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12) when conditions allow. Hoot-owl restrictions possible. Last canyon floats of the season.
Rock Creek — August
PMDs continue. Hopper season peak (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Hot afternoons — hoot-owl restrictions common. Native Bull Trout post-spawn — release immediately, federally protected.
Stillwater River — August
PMDs continue (size 14-16). Hopper season peak (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Cool canyon water stays productive in summer heat. Quiet alternative to nearby Yellowstone.
Boulder River — August
PMDs continue. Hopper season peak (size 8-12). Caddis evenings. Cool mountain water stays productive. Pocket water through the canyon at its best.
Sun River — August
PMDs continue. Hopper season peak (size 8-12) — Sun River grasshopper populations large in the agricultural valley. Caddis evenings. Cool mornings, hot afternoons.
Ruby River — August
PMDs continue. Tricos (size 22-24) at peak — early-morning spinner falls. Hopper season peak (size 8-12) along grassy meadow banks. Brown trout selective and pressured — small flies, fine tippet.
Rapidan River — August
Terrestrial peak (ants, beetles, hoppers). Tricos continuing early mornings. Sparse hatches midday — fish stay opportunistic on attractor dries. Cool morning windows are best.
South River — August
Terrestrials prime. Tricos continuing. White Fly (size 12-14) possible on lower stretches at dusk. Hot summer fishing — early mornings or evenings only.
Jackson River — August
Tricos continuing (size 22-26). Terrestrials (ants #18-22) midday. Caddis evenings. Cold tailwater stays fishable when freestones get warm — premier summer fishery.
North Fork Shenandoah River — August
White Fly continuing at dusk. Hopper peak — large smallmouth crushing terrestrials. Trout fishing limited to coldest spring-fed sections.
Bullpasture River — August
Terrestrial peak — beetles especially productive in tight casting lanes. Tricos continuing. Hot summer fishing in cold limestone water — Bullpasture's big advantage.
Maury River — August
Terrestrial peak (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers). Tricos continuing. Hot summer fishing — focus on shaded gorge pools and morning windows.
Rose River — August
Terrestrial peak. Sparse hatches midday — brookies stay opportunistic on attractor dries (Stimulator, Royal Wulff, small Humpy). Best small-stream month.
Conway River — August
Terrestrial peak. Sparse hatches midday — brookies stay on attractors. Lightly pressured backcountry — best dry-fly water in the SNP for solitude.
Passage Creek — August
Terrestrial peak — beetles especially productive in tight casting lanes. Sparse hatches midday — wild trout stay opportunistic on attractor dries.
Davidson River — August
Terrestrial peak — beetles and ants crushing in canopy water. Tricos continuing. Sulphurs winding down. Hot afternoons — fish dawn or evening.
Watauga River — August
Terrestrial peak. Sparse hatches midday — fish stay on attractors and hopper-droppers. Cold mornings, warm afternoons — fish dawn and evening.
Nantahala River — August
Tricos (size 22-26) at peak. Sulphurs winding down. Terrestrials (ants/beetles). Caddis evenings. Fish boat-tolerant — accustomed to whitewater traffic.
New River (North Carolina) — August
HOPPER PEAK — best month for smallmouth on poppers and big terrestrials. Caddis evenings. Trout fishing limited to coldest spring-fed headwaters.
Oconaluftee River — August
Terrestrial peak — beetles especially productive in canopy water. Yellow Sally winding down. Sparse hatches midday — fish stay on attractor dries.
French Broad River — August
Terrestrial peak — beetles and ants productive. Tricos continuing. Sulphurs winding down. Hot afternoons in the valley — fish coldest tributary mouths.
Cataloochee Creek — August
Terrestrial peak. Sparse hatches midday — brookies stay opportunistic on attractor dries (Stimulator, Royal Wulff). Best month for wilderness solitude.
Linville River — August
Terrestrial peak — beetles crushing in canopy water. Sparse hatches midday — wild trout stay on attractors and hopper-droppers.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — August
Tricos continuing. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (ants/beetles). Cold consistent tailwater stays prime when surrounding TN streams get hot.
Little River — August
Terrestrial peak — beetles especially productive in canopy water. Yellow Sally winding down. Sparse hatches midday — fish stay on attractor dries.
Tellico River — August
Terrestrial peak. Sparse hatches midday — wild rainbows stay opportunistic on attractor dries. Best month for backcountry solitude in upper river.
Cranberry River — August
Terrestrial peak. Sparse hatches midday — brookies stay on attractors. Best month for backcountry solitude — most anglers off the river.
South Branch Potomac River — August
Terrestrial peak — hoppers crushing both trout and smallmouth. Caddis evenings. Cool limestone seeps keep some sections fishable through summer heat.
Elk River — August
Terrestrial peak. Sparse hatches midday — wild trout stay opportunistic on attractor dries. Cool morning windows best.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — August
Terrestrial peak — opportunistic brookies crush attractor dries (Stimulator, Royal Wulff, small Humpy). Best month for backcountry solitude.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — August
Terrestrial peak — hoppers and beetles crushing. Caddis evenings. Cool limestone holds wild trout when surrounding freestones get warm.
Williams River — August
Terrestrial peak. Sparse hatches midday — opportunistic brookies and rainbows crush attractor dries. Best month for backcountry solitude in Webster County.
Greenbrier River — August
Terrestrial peak. Sparse hatches midday — fish stay on attractor dries and hopper-droppers. Hot afternoons — fish dawn and evening.
Beaverkill River — August
Terrestrial peak. Trico continues mornings. Sulphurs tapering. Fish dawn and dusk in summer heat — water can warm. C&R care advised on warm afternoons.
Willowemoc Creek — August
Terrestrial peak. Trico continues mornings. Sulphurs tapering. Fish dawn and dusk in summer heat — water can warm. C&R care advised on warm afternoons.
East Branch Delaware River — August
Tricos peak (size 22-24) mornings. Terrestrials. BWOs continuing. Cold tailwater keeps fish active when nearby freestones get warm.
West Branch Delaware River — August
TRICO PEAK (size 22-26) mornings — technical flat-water fishing for selective wild browns. Terrestrials. BWOs cloudy days. Cold tailwater fishability when freestones blow out from thunderstorms.
Esopus Creek — August
ISONYCHIA peak — large dark mayflies, fish key on these. Terrestrials. Trico. Fish dawn and dusk as water warms.
Schoharie Creek — August
ISONYCHIA peak. Terrestrials. Sparse hatches midday — opportunistic trout crush attractor dries. Fish dawn and dusk.
Neversink River — August
Terrestrial peak. Trico continues. Sparse hatches midday — fish dawn and dusk in summer heat.
Rondout Creek — August
Terrestrial peak — opportunistic wild trout crush attractor dries. Fish dawn and dusk in summer heat.
Ausable River (East Branch) — August
ISONYCHIA peak. Terrestrials (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #10-14). Brook trout especially aggressive on attractor dries.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — August
ISONYCHIA peak. Terrestrials. Sparse midday hatches — opportunistic trout crush attractor dries. Famous gorge dry-fly water.
Saranac River — August
ISONYCHIA peak. Terrestrials. Sparse midday hatches — opportunistic wild trout. AuSable Chasm scenic.
Raquette River — August
Terrestrial peak — opportunistic wild trout crush attractor dries (Stimulator, Royal Wulff). Sparse midday hatches.
Black River (upper) — August
ISONYCHIA peak. Terrestrials. Below Boonville the river warms — fish upper foothill sections only in summer heat. Brookies aggressive on attractors.
Penns Creek — August
Terrestrial peak (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18, hoppers #12-14). Trico continues mornings. Fish dawn and dusk in summer heat — limestone keeps temps livable.
Spring Creek — August
Trico continues. Terrestrials (ants #18-22, beetles, small hoppers). BWOs cloudy days. Fish dawn and dusk; limestone stays cooler than freestones.
Big Fishing Creek — August
Terrestrial peak. Trico continues mornings. Fish dawn and dusk in summer heat. Limestone influence keeps temps moderate.
Little Juniata River — August
Terrestrial peak (ants, beetles, hoppers). Trico continues mornings. Fish dawn and dusk in summer heat.
Yellow Breeches Creek — August
Trico continuing strong (size 22-26). Terrestrials. Cold limestone keeps temps fishable when freestones get warm. Sight-fishing wild browns in clear water.
Tulpehocken Creek — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Midges always. Cold dam releases keep rainbows actively feeding. Fish stay fishable when surrounding waters get warm.
Brodhead Creek — August
Slate Drake continuing. Terrestrials peak. Sulphurs tapering. Fish dawn and dusk in summer heat. C&R care advised on warm afternoons.
Bushkill Creek — August
Terrestrials peak. Sparse hatches midday. Low flows critical — fish dawn and dusk only. Many sections too low to fish.
Loyalsock Creek — August
Slate Drake continuing. Terrestrials peak. Sparse midday hatches — opportunistic wild trout crush attractor dries (Stimulator, Royal Wulff).
Pine Creek — August
Slate Drake continuing. Terrestrials peak. Sparse midday — opportunistic wild trout crush attractor dries. Gorge sections require hike-in commitment.
Kettle Creek — August
Terrestrials peak — opportunistic wild trout crush attractor dries (Stimulator, Royal Wulff). Sparse midday hatches.
Young Womans Creek — August
Terrestrials peak. Flows often too low to fish. Brookies stressed in low water — practice gentle C&R or skip during droughts.
Battenkill River — August
Terrestrials peak (ants #18-22, beetles #14-18). Trico continues mornings. Fish dawn and dusk — water can warm in afternoons.
White River — August
Terrestrials peak. Trico continues mornings. Fish dawn and dusk in summer heat. Cold tributaries hold fish when mainstem warms.
Mad River — August
Terrestrials peak. Trico mornings. Flows often LOW — Mad drops fast in August. Pick days carefully.
Lamoille River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Sparse midday hatches. Fish dawn and dusk in summer heat.
Winooski River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Sparse midday. Fish upper sections; lower river too warm in summer for sustained C&R.
Dog River — August
Terrestrials peak — small water responds to ants and beetles. Flows critically low — many sections too thin to fish.
Black River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Sparse midday. Fish dawn and dusk in summer heat.
West River — August
Trico continues. Terrestrials peak. BWOs cloudy days. Tailwater stays cold when freestones warm — Jamaica State Park access.
Williams River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Low flows critical — many sections too thin to fish.
Missisquoi River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Brookies in upper reaches active — far northern VT stays cooler than southern rivers.
West Branch Penobscot — August
Hex tail end. Caddis. Terrestrials. Late summer fishing depends on water temps — releases keep some sections cold.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Late-summer salmon hold deep in cooler current. Fish dawn and dusk.
Kennebec River – The Forks — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Sulphurs winding down. Mid-day heat — fish dawn and dusk.
Dead River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Sparse mid-day. Fish dawn and dusk.
Sandy River — August
Trico peak. Terrestrials. PMDs tapering. Fish dawn and dusk in summer heat.
Carrabassett River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Wild brookies hold in cool upper-river runs.
Magalloway River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Cold tailwater holds fish through summer.
Narraguagus River — August
FALL SEA-RUN PUSH starting. Terrestrials. Caddis. Brookies stage near the head of tide.
Rapid River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Hare's Ear nymphs always productive. Mid-summer water temps watch.
Roach River — August
Low and warm typical. Brookies in cool seams. Fish dawn or skip until rain restores flows.
Kennebago River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. After August 15: catch-and-release ONLY. Fly-fishing only on entire river.
Ellis River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Sparse mid-day. Fish dawn and dusk.
Swift River — August
Trico continues. Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Stocked browns hold in pocket water.
Saco River — August
Trico continues. Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Fish dawn and dusk to avoid recreation traffic.
Androscoggin River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Wild browns active in cooler tailwater seams.
Pemigewasset River — August
Trico continues. Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Upper river around Woodstock/Thornton sees less pressure.
Wild River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Cool spring-fed flows hold fish through summer heat.
Ammonoosuc River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Wild trout in cooler upper-river runs.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — August
PMDs continue. Terrestrials. Caddis. Cold tailwater advantage — premium August trophy water.
Smith River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Sparse mid-day. Low-flow caution.
Cold River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Watch flows — small water sensitive to dry summers.
Deerfield River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Sulphurs tapering. Early-morning sulphur spinner falls. Cold tailwater holds fish through summer.
Swift River — August
Trico peak continues. Terrestrials. Late sulphurs. Holdover fish hold deep but feed actively in cool water.
Westfield River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Sparse mid-day. Wild populations in upper river hold in cool runs.
West Branch Westfield River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Watch low flows. Wild fish hold in deeper runs.
East Branch Westfield River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Wild populations hold in deep gorge water through summer.
Millers River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Holdover fish hold in deeper pools.
Squannacook River — August
Trico peak. Terrestrials. Spring-fed water holds fish through summer heat.
Nissitissit River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Wild fish hold in cool spring-fed pools.
Cold River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Watch low flows on this small stream.
Farmington River (MA Section) — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Sparse mid-day. Low-flow caution.
Ware River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Holdover trout hold in deeper pools.
Farmington River — August
Trico peak (size 22-24) mornings. Terrestrials. Late sulphurs. Cold consistent tailwater.
Housatonic River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Late sulphurs. Big browns to streamers in low-light windows.
Salmon River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Late sulphurs. Big browns to streamers.
Willimantic River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Wild fish hold in cool spring-fed runs.
Natchaug River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Wild fish hold in cool tributary mouths.
Shepaug River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Spring-influenced water holds fish.
Mad River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Mid-summer thin.
Bantam River — August
Warm water — limited trout fishing on the main stem.
Blackledge River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Holdover and wild fish hold deep.
Jeremy River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Wild fish hold in cool shaded runs.
Still River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Watch flows — small stream sensitive to dry summers.
Gunpowder Falls — August
TRICO PEAK CONTINUES. Terrestrials. Late sulphurs. Cold tailwater stays prime through the heat.
Little Gunpowder Falls — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Mid-summer thin — fish dawn/dusk in spring-fed pools.
Big Hunting Creek — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Wild fish hold in cool shaded pools.
Savage River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Late sulphurs. Cold consistent tailwater holds 18"+ browns.
North Branch Potomac River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Late sulphurs. Cold consistent tailwater.
Youghiogheny River — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Wild fish hold in deeper runs.
Casselman River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Wild brookies hold in cool spring-fed runs.
Antietam Creek — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Limestone seeps keep some sections fishable.
Catoctin Creek — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Mid-summer thin.
Patuxent River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Cold-release pulses keep fish active in immediate tailwater.
Monocacy River — August
Warmwater dominant — limited trout activity.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — August
Terrestrials peak. Caddis. Wild fish hold in cool gorge pools.
Musconetcong River — August
Trico continues. Terrestrials. Caddis. Spring-fed pools hold trout through summer.
Big Flat Brook — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Wild fish hold in cool shaded pools.
Pequest River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Mid-summer thin — holdover fish in spring seeps only.
Paulinskill River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Mid-summer thin.
Rockaway River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Cold releases keep immediate tailwater fishable.
Ramapo River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Mid-summer thin — holdover fish in deeper pools.
Wanaque River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Cold tailwater holds fish through summer.
Black River (Lamington River) — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Wild fish hold in deep gorge pools.
Pequannock River — August
Terrestrials. Caddis. Holdover trout in deeper pools.
Deschutes River — August
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. STEELHEAD season at full swing in lower river — swung flies and skated dries. Hopper-dropper for redsides.
McKenzie River — August
PMDs continue. Caddis. Tricos (size 22) on lower river. Hopper-dropper productive. Hot weather — early starts.
Metolius River — August
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Tricos possible. Bull trout aggressive on streamers.
North Umpqua River — August
STEELHEAD at peak in fly-only corridor. PMDs and Caddis for resident trout. The most famous fly-only steelhead water in the West.
Rogue River — August
HALF-POUNDERS at peak in lower Rogue. PMDs. Caddis. Trout dry-fly above Lost Creek. Hot summer water — fish early/late.
Williamson River — August
TRICOS (size 20-22) early morning. PMDs continue. Hex tapering. Big browns pre-spawn aggressive.
Crooked River — August
TRICOS (size 22) early morning. PMDs. Caddis. Hopper-dropper rig prime — small fish but lots of them.
Fall River — August
TRICOS at peak (size 20-22) early morning. PMDs continue. Mahogany Duns starting late month. Selective fish.
Sandy River — August
SUMMER STEELHEAD at peak. PMDs and Caddis for resident trout. Coho salmon entering.
Clackamas River — August
SUMMER STEELHEAD at peak. PMDs and Caddis. Hopper season for residents.
Grande Ronde River — August
PMDs and Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning to enter — long swing runs. Hopper-dropper for redsides.
Wallowa River — August
PMDs and Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Hopper-dropper for redsides.
John Day River — August
PMDs and Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning to enter lower river. Hopper-dropper. Smallmouth aggressive.
Sprague River — August
TRICOS (size 20-22) early morning. PMDs. Hex tapering. Selective fish.
Wood River — August
TRICOS (size 20-22) early morning. PMDs continue. Hex tapering. Mahogany Duns starting.
Hosmer Lake — August
Damselflies continue. Callibaetis. Trico spinner falls late summer. Cranebow rainbows in shallows.
Yakima River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Hopper season. Late-summer hot water — fish dawn and dusk on lower river. Steelhead beginning to enter.
Wenatchee River — August
PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper-dropper productive. Hot weather — early starts. Summer steelhead beginning.
Methow River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Hopper-dropper. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning to enter — but ALL steelhead must be released (ESA).
Skagit River — August
PMDs and Caddis. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning. Bull trout active. Hopper-dropper for resident trout.
Skykomish River — August
SUMMER STEELHEAD at peak — easy access on US-2 makes Sky one of WA's most popular summer steelhead rivers. PMDs and Caddis for trout.
Stillaguamish River — August
SUMMER STEELHEAD continuing. PMDs and Caddis. Hopper season. Hot summer water.
Sauk River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Bull trout active. Hopper-dropper for resident trout. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning.
Hoh River — August
Caddis evenings. SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT beginning to build. Crane Flies on overcast days.
Bogachiel River — August
SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT building in lower river. Caddis evenings. Crane Flies on overcast days.
Queets River — August
SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT building. Caddis evenings. Crane Flies on overcast days.
Sol Duc River — August
SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT building. Caddis evenings. Crane Flies on overcast days.
Snoqualmie River — August
SUMMER STEELHEAD continuing. PMDs and Caddis. Hopper season.
Spokane River — August
TRICOS (size 22) early morning. PMDs continue. Caddis. Hopper-dropper. Hot weather — early starts.
Little Spokane River — August
TRICOS at peak (size 20-22) early morning. PMDs continue. Caddis. Selective fish.
Naches River — August
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Hopper-dropper. Naches a refuge when Yakima runs warm.
Tucannon River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Hopper-dropper. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning to enter — closures common (release all when open).
Hat Creek — August
PMDs and Tricos. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Selective fish — bring fine tippet and small flies.
Fall River — August
Hexagenia continues into early month. PMDs and Tricos. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive on edges.
Pit River — August
PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants) productive. Trophy browns active at dawn and dusk.
McCloud River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants) productive on the open meadow sections. Wild trout selective.
Upper Sacramento River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Terrestrials (hoppers #10-12, ants) productive. Hopper-dropper rigs work all day.
Trinity River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Terrestrials productive. Lower river warming — focus on the upper Lewiston tailwater.
Klamath River — August
Caddis. Hot weather — many sections too warm to fish ethically. Terrestrials when conditions allow.
Feather River Low Flow Channel — August
PMDs and Caddis. Terrestrials productive. Channel stays cold while adjacent waters become unfishable.
Truckee River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants) productive. Lahontan cutthroat aggressive in cool reaches.
Little Truckee River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Terrestrials productive. Cool reservoir releases keep summer fishing reliable.
East Walker River — August
PMDs and Tricos. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Trophy browns selective — bring 6X.
West Walker River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants) productive. Wild rainbows aggressive in pocket water.
Lee Vining Creek — August
PMDs and Caddis. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants) productive. Peak summer fishing window in the Mono Basin.
Owens River — August
PMDs and Tricos. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers #10-12, ants) productive in the meadows.
Hot Creek — August
PMDs and Tricos. Caddis evenings. Educated trout — bring smaller flies and finer tippet than you think you need.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — August
PMDs and Caddis. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants) productive. Wild rainbows and browns aggressive in pocket water.
Kings River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Terrestrials productive. Wild rainbows aggressive in pristine canyon water — true backcountry fishing.
Kern River — August
PMDs and Caddis. Terrestrials productive. Wild rainbows on the lower river; Goldens in the high-country meadows.
Russian River — August
Hot weather continues. Closures common. Off-season for the Russian.
Au Sable River — August
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) early morning 7-10am on the Holy Water. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (ants, beetles, hoppers) productive mid-day. Slower fishing as water warms.
Au Sable North Branch — August
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) early morning. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Wild brook trout in cool spring-fed upper reaches.
Au Sable South Branch — August
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Wild brown and brook trout in remote canyon sections.
Pere Marquette River — August
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) early morning. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Resident browns selective in summer flows.
Manistee River — August
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Lower river warming — focus upper river for trout.
Muskegon River — August
TRICO spinner falls (size 22-24) dawn. Caddis evenings. Tailwater stays cool when other Michigan rivers warm — Muskegon fishes through August.
Jordan River — August
TRICO (size 22-24) dawn. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cold spring-fed flows hold fish through hot weeks.
Boardman River — August
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Resident trout in cool spring-fed sections.
Betsie River — August
Caddis evenings. Lower river warm. Focus upper river for trout.
Pine River — August
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive. Resident wild fish in remote water.
Pigeon River — August
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Wild brookies in headwater pools.
Sturgeon River — August
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cold spring-fed flows hold fish through summer.
Black River — August
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive.
Two-Hearted River — August
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive on the open meadow stretches.
Fox River — August
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive.
Timber Coulee Creek — August
TRICOS continue (size 22-24) early morning. Terrestrials at peak (hoppers #10-12, ants #16-20, beetles) — Driftless summer standard. Cold spring water keeps fishing strong.
West Fork Kickapoo River — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak (hoppers, ants, beetles) — Driftless summer standard.
Kickapoo River — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Mainstem warm — focus shaded reaches and tributary mouths.
Black Earth Creek — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Big browns selective — 6X tippet and small flies. Special-reg fish ID with 18" minimum in mind.
Mt. Vernon Creek — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Spring-creek temps stay cool when bigger Driftless rivers warm.
Elk Creek — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Cool spring-creek flows hold fish through summer.
Blue River — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Heavy populations of wild browns under ERW protection.
Seas Branch — August
Terrestrials (ants, beetles, small hoppers) productive. Cold water keeps brookies active when bigger Driftless waters warm.
Tomorrow River — August
TRICOS dawn. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Brook trout in cold headwaters.
Wolf River — August
TRICOS dawn. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Big water can warm — fish early/late.
Bois Brule River — August
Caddis evenings. Sulphurs. Box Car Hole closed (closed Jul 15–Oct 31). Resident brookies and browns in cold spring-fed flows.
Namekagon River — August
TRICOS dawn (size 22-24). Caddis evenings. Terrestrials. Larger river — can warm; focus cool tributary mouths and shaded reaches.
White River — August
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Cold tributary stays cool through summer.
Prairie River — August
TRICOS dawn. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials at peak.
Oconto River — August
Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Upper river cool and fishing well; lower river warm.
Root River — August
TRICOS continue (size 22-24) early morning. Terrestrials at peak (hoppers #10-12, ants #16-20, beetles). Mainstem can warm — focus shaded reaches and tributary mouths.
South Branch Root River — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak (hoppers, ants, beetles) — Driftless summer standard.
North Branch Root River — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Spring-creek temps stay cool when bigger Driftless rivers warm.
Whitewater River — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Cold limestone spring flows hold fish through summer.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Cold limestone spring flows hold fish through summer.
North Fork Whitewater River — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Cold spring flows hold brookies and browns.
Trout Run Creek — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak (hoppers, ants, beetles).
Rush Creek — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Cold spring flows hold fish through summer.
Straight River — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Medium river — focus shaded reaches mid-day.
Knife River — August
Caddis evenings. Cold North Shore tributary stays cool when inland waters warm.
Baptism River — August
Caddis evenings. Cold tributary stays cool through summer.
Cascade River — August
Caddis evenings. Cold tributary stays cool through summer.
Temperance River — August
Caddis evenings. Cold tributary stays cool through summer.
Brule River — August
Caddis evenings. Cold tributary stays cool through summer.
Poplar River — August
Caddis evenings. Cold tributary stays cool through summer.
Upper Iowa River — August
TRICOS continue (size 22-24). Terrestrials at peak (hoppers #10-12, ants #16-20, beetles). Larger mainstem can warm — fish early/late and shaded reaches.
Yellow River — August
TRICOS continue. Terrestrials at peak (hoppers, ants, beetles). Cool spring-influenced water holds fish.
Volga River — August
TRICOS continue. Terrestrials at peak. Cool spring-influenced water.
Turkey River — August
TRICOS continue. Terrestrials at peak. Mainstem can warm — focus shaded reaches and tributary mouths.
Bloody Run Creek — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak (hoppers, ants, beetles). Cold spring-creek temps stay cool when mainstem rivers warm.
Paint Creek — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Cold spring-creek temps stable.
Bear Creek — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak (hoppers, ants, beetles) — Driftless summer standard. Cold spring water stays cool.
North Fork Maquoketa River — August
TRICOS continue. Terrestrials at peak. Less-pressured eastern Iowa Driftless water.
Waterloo Creek — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Cold spring-creek temps stay cool through hottest weeks.
French Creek — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Cold spring-creek flows hold fish through summer.
Village Creek — August
TRICOS dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Cold spring flows hold up.
White River — August
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn spinner falls. Caddis evenings. Midges. Scuds. Hot weather drives heavy generation — read the gauge.
North Fork River — August
Caddis evenings. Midges. Scuds. Hot weather drives heavy generation.
Little Red River — August
Caddis evenings. Midges. Scuds. Hot weather drives heavy generation — fish between releases.
Spring River — August
Caddis evenings. Midges. Scuds. Spring temperatures stay constant — Mammoth Spring is one of the few warm-climate fisheries that stays cold through summer.
Crooked Creek — August
Caddis evenings. Midges. Hot weather — fish dawn/dusk for active stocked trout.
Chagrin River — August
Tricos (size 22-24) dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Hex tapering. Upper-river brook trout (C&R only).
Grand River — August
Tricos dawn. Terrestrials. Hex tapering.
Rocky River — August
Light summer fishery. Caddis, terrestrials. Water warms.
Vermilion River — August
Light summer. Water often very low. Terrestrials.
Conneaut Creek — August
Light summer. Terrestrials.
Cuyahoga River — August
Light summer. Terrestrials.
Ashtabula River — August
Light summer. Terrestrials.
Mad River — August
Tricos dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Spring-fed cold water holds up while surface streams across Ohio cook.
Big Darby Creek — August
Smallmouth top-water continuing. Terrestrials. Hot weather slows midday — fish early/late.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — August
Caddis. Midges. Hot weather — stocked fish thinned out, surviving holdovers concentrate near cooler water.
Current River — August
Tricos dawn. Terrestrials at peak. White Fly (size 12-14) hatches on the lower Current — major late-summer event.
Jacks Fork River — August
Tricos dawn. Terrestrials at peak. White Fly (size 12-14) hatches on lower Jacks Fork — significant late-summer event.
Eleven Point River — August
Tricos dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Spring-fed cold flows.
North Fork of White River — August
Tricos dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Bryant Creek and Hodgson Mill Spring tributary contribute consistent cold water.
Huzzah Creek — August
Caddis. Midges. Terrestrials. Cool spring-fed water keeps fish holding.
Gasconade River — August
Smallmouth top-water peak on lower river. Caddis on upper trout reach. Hot weather — focus headwaters for trout.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — August
Tricos dawn. Terrestrials at peak — hopper-dropper rigs deadly on the wild fish above town. Hot weather — fish early or push higher into the National Forest for cooler water.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — August
Tricos dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Hot weather — focus early/late and check water temps. Wild & Scenic headwaters stay cooler than downstream Clayton.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — August
Terrestrials at peak — hopper-dropper rigs deadly. Hot weather — focus early/late. Push higher into the Chattahoochee NF for cooler water.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — August
Terrestrials at peak. Hot weather — focus early/late and check water temps. Spring-fed sections of the Cohutta watershed stay cooler than freestone reaches.
Soque River — August
Tricos dawn. Terrestrials at peak. Hot weather — focus early/late. Spring inputs keep the Soque cooler than freestone neighbors.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — August
Sulphurs and caddis in the cool tailwater. Terrestrials (beetles, ants size 14-18) productive mid-day. The Toccoa fishes when freestones go too warm.
Kenai River — August
PEAK RAINBOW SEASON beginning. Salmon carcasses and eggs concentrate large rainbows below Skilak Lake. Flesh flies and egg patterns essential. Drift boat fishing dominates at high summer flows. Coho (silver) salmon arriving late month.
Russian River — August
Sockeye season closes Aug 20. Rainbow trout fishery transitions to peak — rainbows key on sockeye carcasses and eggs. Flesh patterns and beads. Less crowded after sockeye closure.
Anchor River — August
Steelhead season opens August 1 (upper river). Early steelhead trickle in late month. Sea-run Dolly Varden continue. Look for fish moving in after rain events.
Gulkana River — August
Continued strong grayling on dries. Sockeye tapering. Rainbow trout active. The Gulkana is a clearwater system — sight fishing throughout the summer.
Situk River — August
Salmon at peak — sockeye, pink, chum entering. Rainbows and cutthroat on egg patterns. Coho (silver) arriving late month.
Naknek River — August
TROPHY RAINBOW SEASON BEGINNING. Salmon carcasses and eggs concentrate large rainbows. Egg patterns, beads, flesh flies, and articulated streamers. 28–34 inch fish are routine; 10+ lb fish documented.
Spearfish Creek — August
Terrestrials, evening Caddis; streamer fishing for browns
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — August
Terrestrials, Midges; streamer fishing
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — August
Terrestrials, Midges
Spring Creek — August
Terrestrials, evening Caddis
Whitewood Creek — August
Terrestrials, Midges
Castle Creek — August
Terrestrials, evening Caddis
Cumberland River Tailwater — August
Midges, Scuds. Streamer fishing. Mornings and evenings most productive — middle of the day quiet.
Hatchery Creek — August
Midges, Scuds, Sowbugs. Continue with subsurface — consistent micro-fishery.
Green River Tailwater — August
Terrestrials, Midges. Bass and walleye dominate; fish early and late.
Barren River Tailwater — August
Midges, Terrestrials. Bass and walleye dominate; fish early and late.
Rockcastle River — August
Terrestrials dominate — Hoppers (#8–10), Foam Ants, Beetle patterns. Topwater poppers at dawn/dusk.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — August
Midges, Ants (#18–20). Same — terrestrials and dawn/dusk.
Rock Creek — August
Terrestrials. Wooly Buggers for holdover browns in the pools.
Truckee River — August
Terrestrials, Midges, evening Caddis
East Walker River — August
Terrestrials, Midges; best streamer fishing of the year
West Walker River — August
Terrestrials, Midges
East Fork Carson River — August
Terrestrials, Midges
Lamoille Creek — August
Terrestrials dominate; Foam Beetles, Hoppers, Ants; clear low water
South Fork Humboldt River — August
Terrestrials, Midges; low water common
Guadalupe River — August
Terrestrials, Streamers for bass and stripers
Llano River — August
Terrestrials, Muddler Minnows; best fishing early morning
Blanco River — August
Terrestrials; carp in shaded pools; watch flash-flood gauge — river can rise 100,000+ CFS
Pedernales River — August
Terrestrials; summer heat limits midday activity
Frio River — August
Terrestrials; morning only; afternoons crowded
South Llano River — August
Terrestrials; best in early morning
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — August
Light Cahills; Midges; Beetles; fish deep when releases pause
Cahaba River — August
Terrestrials; Wooly Buggers in deeper runs; bass on shoals at dawn
Little River Canyon — August
Terrestrials; Foam Ants; Beetles; canyon shade key on hot days
Tallapoosa River — August
Terrestrials; small streamers in tailwater shade; check release schedule
Paint Rock River — August
Terrestrials; small Streamers in deeper pools; morning focus
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — August
Terrestrials; small Streamers in deeper pools; bass shade-seek
Blue River — August
Midges; Beetles; small Hoppers; trout stressed in afternoon heat — early/late only
Mountain Fork River — August
Midges; Beetles; small Hoppers; tailwater stays cold but flows can run heavy
Illinois River — August
Terrestrials; small Streamers in deeper pools; fish shaded banks midday
Baron Fork — August
Terrestrials; small Streamers in deeper pools; fish dawn/dusk in heat
Glover River — August
Terrestrials; small Streamers in deep pools; flows often too low — wade-fish only
Kiamichi River — August
Terrestrials; large Streamers for big catfish; fish shaded banks
September Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — September
BWOs return strong on cloudy days (size 18-20) — best dry fly month of the year on the Platte. PMDs tapering. Streamer fishing productive.
Arkansas River — September
PMDs tapering. BWOs returning on cloudy days (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Excellent fall fishing — this is one of Colorado's best fall rivers.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — September
BWOs returning on overcast days (size 18-20). Terrestrials continue. Cooler temps improve afternoon fishing. September is a transition month — strong early mornings, good evenings.
Blue River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Midges picking up. Mysis year-round. Fall fishing excellent — consistent tailwater flows, less pressure after Labor Day crowds thin out.
Bear Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Fall is a hidden gem — less pressure, active fish, cooling water. Denver anglers overlook this.
Colorado River — September
Green Drakes tapering. BWOs returning on cloudy days (size 18-20). PMDs possible. Fall streamer fishing for aggressive large trout.
Frying Pan River — September
BWOs returning strong on overcast days (size 18-20) — the best dry fly month on the Pan. PMDs tapering. Cool air triggers excellent hatches. This is prime Frying Pan season.
Roaring Fork River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Caddis possible. Excellent fall fishing — less pressure, active fish, cooling water. Fork brown trout are large in September.
Cache la Poudre River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Excellent fall fishing — the canyon below Ted's Place has easy access and less pressure than Front Range competition.
Taylor River — September
BWOs returning strong on overcast days (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Midges year-round. Outstanding fall fishing — tailwater stability, cool evenings, fish feeding aggressively.
Gunnison River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Green Drakes tapering. PMDs possible. Fall fishing on the Gunnison Gorge is world-class — trophy fish, remote canyon, turning aspen above the rim.
Eagle River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Caddis possible. Good fall fishing — Eagle brown trout become aggressive. Less pressure than September on the South Platte.
Yampa River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. September on the Yampa is the best-kept secret in Colorado fly fishing — large browns, zero pressure, fall colors, bugling elk.
Rio Grande — September
BWOs returning strong (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Caddis possible. September on the Rio Grande is outstanding — cool nights, active fish, striking fall colors, minimal crowds.
Crystal River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Fall fishing is a hidden gem — light pressure, wild trout, beautiful Crystal Valley scenery below Marble. One of Colorado's most scenic autumn options.
Dolores River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Midges picking up. Fall fishing excellent — Dolores tailwater is significantly less crowded than northern Colorado rivers in September.
North Platte River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. September on the North Platte is peak season — large wild browns active, fall colors, elk bugling in North Park. This is the best month to make the Walden drive.
Slate River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Fall on the Slate is beautiful — minimal pressure, active fish, aspen gold. North of CB on Slate River Road is the go-to access.
San Juan River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Excellent fall fishing — Pagosa Springs in September is mild, the river is clear, and browns are active. One of Southwest Colorado's best fall options.
Animas River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. September fall fishing excellent — browns pre-spawn active, clear water, cooling temps. The Gold Medal stretch earns its designation in September.
East River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Fall on the East River is exceptional — Crested Butte aspen colors, wild cutthroat, light pressure. This is the hidden gem month.
Fraser River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Excellent fall fishing — Grand County aspen color, minimal pressure, wild browns active. Fraser in September is a quality option for an I-70 corridor trip.
Dream Stream — September
BWOs returning strongly (size 18-20). FALL SPAWNING RUN STARTING — the biggest brown trout of the year begin moving into this reach September through October. Fish can exceed 24". Treat them with care.
Gore Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Caddis possible. Resort crowds thin dramatically after Labor Day — September Gore Creek is the reward for the summer wait. Excellent fall fishing.
Cheesman Canyon — September
BWOs returning strongly (size 18-20). BEST MONTH — cool canyon temps, clear water, active fish, minimal pressure. September on Cheesman Canyon is the reward for the effort. Plan the full day.
Williams Fork River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Midges picking up. Fall on the Williams Fork near Parshall — quality browns, empty canyon, Grand County fall colors. The secret stays secret in September.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers continue. Streamer fishing picking up as big browns get aggressive pre-spawn. Classic fall float: Pumphouse to State Bridge in early September morning light.
Conejos River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers continue. Fall on the Conejos: wild cutthroat feeding aggressively, aspens turning in the Rio Grande National Forest. One of Colorado's most beautiful fall fisheries.
San Miguel River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers continue early September. Excellent fall fishing — remote canyon with fall colors. Less pressure than any week in summer. San Miguel in September is a secret worth keeping.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers continue. FALL PRIME — trophy browns on the move pre-spawn. September on the Lake Fork near Lake City is outstanding and underutilized. Aspens turning on the CO-149 drive.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Hoppers still effective. Outstanding fall fishing — fewer crowds after Labor Day, fish keying on dries.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still productive. Excellent fall fishing — pre-spawn brown trout aggressive on streamers and large attractors.
Snake River — September
Hoppers still productive early month. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Pale Morning Dun mayflies. Cool nights, active fish, fall colors in the Tetons. September is the month.
Green River — Fontenelle — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Hoppers still effective. Excellent fall fishing — cooling water and consistent flows.
Shoshone River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective. Brown trout pre-spawn activity beginning. Spectacular fall colors in the Absaroka foothills.
Bighorn River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos late. PMDs tapering. Hoppers still effective. Outstanding fall fishing with cooler temps and active fish.
Laramie River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective early month. Brown trout pre-spawn. Excellent fall fishing with light pressure.
New Fork River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still productive. Cooling water, active fish, fall colors in the Wyoming Range. Excellent September fishing.
Hoback River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective. Fall colors in the Hoback Canyon spectacular. Cutthroat aggressive and surface feeding.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — September
HOPPER SEASON continuing (size 8-12). BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active fish. Fall colors through the canyon spectacular and uncrowded — far from Cody crowds.
Salt River — September
HOPPER SEASON continuing (size 8-12) early month. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active cutthroat. Fall colors through Star Valley — far from Jackson crowds.
Green River — September
BWOs returning strong (size 18-20) on cloudy days — the best dry-fly month on the Green. Tricos continue early month. PMDs tapering. Cool air triggers excellent hatches; releases dropping back to base.
Provo River (Middle) — September
BWOs returning strong (size 18-20) on cloudy days. PMDs tapering. Releases beginning to drop after irrigation season — wading easier late month. Excellent fall fishing through the canyon.
Weber River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) hanging on. Releases dropping — wading easier. Fall colors through the canyon stretches spectacular. Excellent dry-fly month.
Ogden River — September
BWOs returning (size 16-22) on cloudy days. PMDs tapering. Hoppers still effective. Best dry-fly month for selective fish. Fall colors through Ogden Canyon spectacular.
Strawberry River — September
HOPPER SEASON continuing (size 8-12). BWOs returning (size 18-20). Beadhead nymphs always productive. Best month for big-fish dry-fly opportunities in the WMA reach.
Logan River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis hanging on (size 14-16). PMDs tapering. Cooling water, active fish. Fall colors through Logan Canyon spectacular. Best month for selective sight-fishing.
Bear River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective. Cooling water, active fish. Excellent fall fishing — fewer crowds than the marquee waters.
Beaver River — September
Hoppers continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water concentrates fish. Trophy browns increasingly aggressive. Fall colors in the Tushars stunning.
Fremont River — September
Hoppers continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos still active early month. Cooling water, active fish. Tiger trout (brown × brook hybrids) responsive to streamers in deeper pools.
East Fork Sevier River — September
Hoppers continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Cooling water, active fish. Excellent fall fishing in the canyon — fewer crowds than southern UT marquee waters.
Oak Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Water cooling — first solid fishing month after summer heat. Hoppers (size 10-14) still effective. Crowds easing post-Labor Day.
West Fork Oak Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool water, active fish. Monsoon winding down — flash-flood risk easing. Quiet trails after Labor Day. Best month for the careful angler.
East Fork Black River — September
Hopper season continuing (size 8-12). BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active Apache Trout. Best dry fly month for the dedicated angler — quiet, remote, spectacular fall colors.
West Fork Black River — September
Hopper season continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active Apache Trout. Best fall month — spectacular White Mountains fall colors. Quiet, remote, demanding access.
North Fork White River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers continuing. Cooling water, active fish. Best dry fly month at elevation — White Mountains fall colors spectacular.
Canyon Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers continuing. PMDs tapering. Cooling water, active wild browns. Best dry fly month for selective fish. Fall colors in the limestone canyon stunning.
Tonto Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Water cooling — first solid fishing month after summer heat. Hoppers (size 10-14) still effective.
Silver Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continue early month. PMDs tapering. Cooling water, active fish. Spring-fed flows stable. Best month for selective fish on dry flies.
East Clear Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers continuing. PMDs tapering. Cooling water, active fish. Best month for selective wild trout on dry flies in the sandstone canyon.
Little Colorado River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers continuing. PMDs tapering. Cooling water, active fish. Excellent fall fishing — fewer crowds than the White Mountains marquee waters.
Chevelon Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers continuing. Cooling water in remaining pools. Best fall month for the off-the-beaten-path canyon angler.
San Juan River — September
BWOs returning (size 20-22). PMDs tapering. Midges year-round. Outstanding fall fishing — cooling air, big rainbows aggressive on pre-spawn streamers and emergers.
Rio Grande — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still productive. Cooling water, active wild browns. Spectacular fall fishing in the gorge with cottonwoods turning.
Rio Chama — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective. Cooling water, active fish. Fall colors in the Chama canyon spectacular.
Cimarron River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective. Fall colors in Cimarron Canyon stunning. Excellent September fishing with cool mornings.
Pecos River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective. Fall colors in the Pecos Wilderness spectacular. Cutthroat aggressive and surface feeding.
Brazos River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective. Cooling water, active fish. Cutthroat in headwaters surface feeding. Fall colors stunning.
Red River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective. Fall colors in the Red River Valley spectacular. Excellent September fishing.
Jemez River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective. Fall colors in the Jemez Mountains stunning. Cooling water, active fish.
Gila River — September
Hopper season at peak (size 10-14). PMDs tapering. Cooling water, active fish. Monsoon winding down — flows stabilizing. Native Gila Trout aggressive on terrestrials in headwater stretches.
Henry's Fork — September
Tricos continue early month (size 22-24). BWOs returning strong on cloudy days (size 18-20). Callibaetis still productive. Mahogany Duns (size 16-18) starting late month. Excellent fall fishing.
South Fork Snake River — September
HOPPER SEASON PEAK (size 8-12) — September is THE month on the South Fork. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16-18) late month. Streamer fishing kicks in for pre-spawn browns.
Silver Creek — September
Tricos continue early month. Callibaetis strong. BWOs returning on cloudy days (size 20-22). Hoppers in the meadows. Fall light makes the glass-water sight fishing magical.
Big Wood River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective. Cooling water, active fish. Fall colors in Sun Valley spectacular. Best dry fly month for selective sight-fishing.
South Fork Boise River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Pink Alberts tapering. Mahogany Duns (size 16-18) late month. Anderson Ranch releases beginning to drop — wading easier. Excellent fall fishing.
Salmon River — September
Hopper season peak (size 8-12). BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Cooling water, active fish. Fall colors through the Sawtooths spectacular. Steelhead returning to the lower river.
Clearwater River — September
Hoppers still productive. BWOs returning (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD RUN BEGINNING — Clearwater B-run starts arriving late September. Resident trout aggressive on streamers.
Lochsa River — September
Hoppers still productive. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water through the canyon, active cutthroat. Fall colors along Highway 12 spectacular. September is the month.
Teton River — September
BWOs returning strong (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective early month. Mahogany Duns (size 16-18) late month. Cooling water, active cutthroat. Fall colors through Teton Valley.
Fall River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective. Mahogany Duns (size 16-18) late month. Fall colors along the Yellowstone Plateau spectacular.
St. Joe River — September
Hoppers still productive. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active cutthroat. Fall colors through the Coeur d'Alene Mountains spectacular.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — September
Hoppers still productive. BWOs returning (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD RUN BEGINNING — Middle Fork sees Clearwater system fish moving up late September. Resident trout aggressive.
Selway River — September
HOPPER SEASON peak (size 8-12) early month. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active cutthroat. Fall colors through the Selway-Bitterroot spectacular. September is the month.
Boise River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20) on cloudy days. PMDs tapering. Lucky Peak releases beginning to drop after irrigation season — wading easier late month. Excellent fall fishing through the Greenbelt.
Madison River — September
Hopper season continuing early month. BWOs returning strong (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Cooling water after Labor Day, active fish, fall colors in the Madison Valley. Best dry fly month for selective fish.
Missouri River — September
Tricos continue early month. BWOs returning on cloudy days (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Hoppers still effective. Cooling water, active fish, less pressure after Labor Day.
Yellowstone River — September
Hopper season continuing early month. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16-18) late month. Cooling water, active fish, fall colors through Paradise Valley. Best dry fly month after summer crowds thin.
Big Hole River — September
Hopper season continuing as water cools. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Closures typically lifting after Labor Day. Cooler water, active fish, native grayling feeding aggressively before winter.
Bitterroot River — September
Hopper season continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16-18) late month. Cooling water, active fish, fall colors through the Bitterroot Valley spectacular.
Clark Fork River — September
Hopper season continuing early month. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active fish, fall colors through Hellgate Canyon. Best dry fly month for selective fish.
Blackfoot River — September
Hopper season continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active cutthroat. Fall colors through the Blackfoot canyon spectacular.
Gallatin River — September
Hopper season continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active fish. Fall colors through Gallatin Canyon spectacular. Best dry fly month after summer crowds thin.
Flathead River — September
Hopper season continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active cutthroat. Fall colors through the North Fork along Glacier's western boundary spectacular.
Smith River — September
Float season closed. Lower river below Eden Bridge accessible from public sites. Hoppers still effective. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Quiet alternative for those without lottery permits.
Rock Creek — September
Hopper season continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active cutthroat. Fall colors through the Rock Creek canyon spectacular and uncrowded.
Stillwater River — September
Hopper season continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active fish. Fall colors through the Beartooth-Absaroka spectacular and uncrowded.
Boulder River — September
Hopper season continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active fish. Fall colors through the Absaroka-Beartooth spectacular and uncrowded.
Sun River — September
Hopper season continuing. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cooling water, active fish. Fall colors along the Rocky Mountain Front beautiful.
Ruby River — September
Hopper season continuing early month. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos late month. Cooling water, less pressure. Best dry fly month for selective sippers.
Rapidan River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20) returning on cloudy days. Tricos winding down. Last terrestrials. Cooling water rebooting brookie activity — good dry fly month with light pressure.
South River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cooling water revives the fishery. Caddis. Last terrestrials. Stocking restarts — fresh fall fish.
Jackson River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos late month. Caddis. Excellent fall transition — cold consistent flows + fresh BWO hatches.
North Fork Shenandoah River — September
Hoppers continuing. BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Smallmouth fishing prime as water cools. Fall stocking returns.
Bullpasture River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Cooling water concentrates wild fish — best dry fly month for selective sippers in glass-flat pools.
Maury River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Cooling water reactivates fish. Goshen Pass fall colors — one of VA's most beautiful fishing months.
Rose River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Brookies pre-spawn aggression. RESPECT REDDS in shallow gravel headwaters. Beautiful SNP fall.
Conway River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Beautiful fall hike-in fishing.
Passage Creek — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Cooling water concentrates fish — best dry-fly month for selective wild browns.
Davidson River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Tricos late month. Last terrestrials. Cooling water reactivates the fishery — start of fall prime time.
Watauga River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Cooling water concentrates fish. Excellent dry-fly month with light pressure as crowds shift to football.
Nantahala River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Tricos late month. Caddis. Whitewater season ending — gorge gets quiet again. Excellent fall tailwater fishing.
New River (North Carolina) — September
Hoppers continuing. BWOs (size 18-20) returning in headwater trout sections. Smallmouth fishing prime — cooling water active aggressive fish.
Oconaluftee River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Cooling water reactivates wild trout — excellent dry-fly month with light pressure as tourist crowds thin.
French Broad River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Tricos late month. Last terrestrials. Cooling water reactivates the fishery — start of fall prime time.
Cataloochee Creek — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Brookie pre-spawn aggression. RESPECT REDDS. Elk rutting in the meadows — beautiful month.
Linville River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Cooling water reactivates fish. Wilderness fall colors — one of NC's most spectacular fishing destinations.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Tricos late month. Caddis. TVA generation schedules shift — check tva.com before wading.
Little River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Cooling water reactivates wild trout — best dry-fly month for selective fish in glass-flat pools.
Tellico River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Cooling water concentrates fish — best dry-fly month for selective wild trout.
Cranberry River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Brookie pre-spawn aggression. RESPECT REDDS. Beautiful Mon NF fall colors.
South Branch Potomac River — September
Hoppers continuing. BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Smallmouth fishing prime as water cools — best fall month for both species.
Elk River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Cooling water reactivates fish — best dry-fly month for selective wild trout.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Brookie pre-spawn aggression. RESPECT REDDS. Beautiful Mon NF fall colors at high elevation.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Hoppers continuing early month. Cooling water reactivates fish — excellent transition month with light pressure in remote canyon.
Williams River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Last terrestrials. Brookie pre-spawn aggression. RESPECT REDDS. Beautiful Mon NF fall colors with no crowds.
Greenbrier River — September
Fall BWOs (size 18-20). Hoppers continuing early month. Cooling water concentrates fish — excellent transition month.
Beaverkill River — September
Trico continuing. BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Light Cahill. Terrestrials winding down. Cooler water reactivates wild browns.
Willowemoc Creek — September
Trico continuing. BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Light Cahill. Terrestrials winding down. Cooler water reactivates wild browns.
East Branch Delaware River — September
BWO PEAK (size 18-20). Tricos tapering. Cool tailwater concentrates fish. Excellent transition month — pressure light after Labor Day.
West Branch Delaware River — September
BWO PEAK (size 18-20). Tricos tapering. Cooling tailwater concentrates fish. Best fall fishing in the Northeast — light pressure.
Esopus Creek — September
Isonychia continuing. BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cooler water reactivates wild trout. Excellent fall fishing as crowds thin.
Schoharie Creek — September
Isonychia continuing. BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cooler water reactivates fish. Light pressure.
Neversink River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Trico tapering. Cooler water reactivates fish. Quiet historic stretches.
Rondout Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Last terrestrials. Cooling water reactivates fish.
Ausable River (East Branch) — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Isonychia tail end. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Brook trout season may close earlier than brown/rainbow in some ADK waters — check NYSDEC.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Fall lake-run salmon and trout entering lower river. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Saranac River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Fall lake-run rainbows entering lower river. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Raquette River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Last terrestrials. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Brookie season may close in some ADK waters.
Black River (upper) — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Isonychia tail end. Cooler water reactivates fish.
Penns Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning strong. Trico tapering. Cooler water reactivates wild browns. Light pressure after Labor Day.
Spring Creek — September
BWO PEAK (size 18-20) — prime fall fishing. Trico tapering. Cool water concentrates wild browns. Pressure light after Labor Day.
Big Fishing Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Trico tapering. Excellent fall fishing — light pressure on this less-famous limestone stream.
Little Juniata River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Trico tapering. Cooler water reactivates trophy wild browns. Excellent transition month.
Yellow Breeches Creek — September
TRICO continuing into September — a 3-month hatch on the Breeches. BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Tulpehocken Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Last terrestrials. Cold tailwater concentrates fish. Excellent fall fishing.
Brodhead Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Slate Drake tail end. Cooler water reactivates wild browns and brookies in upper tributaries.
Bushkill Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning when fall rain restores flows. Caddis possible. Some fall fishing if conditions allow.
Loyalsock Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Slate Drake tail end. Cooler water reactivates Class A wild browns and rainbows.
Pine Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Slate Drake tail end. Cooler water reactivates wild browns and rainbows.
Kettle Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cooling water restores fishability. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Excellent fall window.
Young Womans Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning if fall rain restores flows. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Brookie season may close in PA — check current PFBC regs.
Battenkill River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Trico tapering. Cool water reactivates wild browns. Light pressure after Labor Day — prime fall window.
White River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Trico tapering. Cool water reactivates fish. Excellent fall fishing as crowds thin.
Mad River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning when fall cooling restores flows. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Lamoille River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. FALL LAKE-RUN RAINBOWS pushing upstream from Champlain — Vermont's best migratory trout window opening.
Winooski River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates wild and stocked trout. Excellent fall fishing in upper river.
Dog River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning when fall rain restores flows. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Black River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates wild and stocked trout. Excellent fall window.
West River — September
BWO peak (size 18-20). Trico tapering. Cool water concentrates trophy browns. Excellent fall window — but fall RELEASE EVENTS likely.
Williams River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning when fall rain restores flows. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Missisquoi River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cold water carries fish into September. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Genuine remote VT trout country.
West Branch Penobscot — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Salmon pre-spawn — fall salmon fishing is the second marquee window. Brookies aggressive.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Salmon pre-spawn — fall window opening. Cool water reactivates fish.
Kennebec River – The Forks — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Dead River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Sandy River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookies in upper reaches active. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Carrabassett River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Magalloway River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. FALL SALMON window. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Narraguagus River — September
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 12-14) starting. BWOs returning. Salters and resident brookies feeding aggressively.
Rapid River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates trophy brookies. Pre-spawn aggression.
Roach River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Pre-spawn salmon and brookies aggressive.
Kennebago River — September
BWOs (size 18-20). Pre-spawn salmon and brookies. Catch-and-release only.
Ellis River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates wild fish. Excellent fall window.
Swift River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish. Excellent fall window.
Saco River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish. Light pressure after Labor Day.
Androscoggin River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates trophy browns and rainbows.
Pemigewasset River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish. Excellent fall window.
Wild River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Ammonoosuc River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — September
BWOs (size 18-20). Salmon pre-spawn — fall window opening. Trophy browns aggressive.
Smith River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Cold River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water — native brookies aggressive. Pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Deerfield River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers in the gorge.
Swift River — September
BWOs (size 20-22) returning. Trico tail end. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Westfield River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
West Branch Westfield River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS in tributaries.
East Branch Westfield River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Millers River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Squannacook River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS in tributaries.
Nissitissit River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Cold River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Native brookies aggressive. Pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Farmington River (MA Section) — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Ware River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS in tributaries.
Farmington River — September
BWOs (size 20-22) returning. C&R season begins September 1 in TMA Section 1. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Housatonic River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Isonychia tail end. Brown trout pre-spawn — streamer time.
Salmon River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. C&R season begins September 1. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Willimantic River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. C&R season begins September 1 in TMA. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Natchaug River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Shepaug River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Mad River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Bantam River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning as lake cools.
Blackledge River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning.
Jeremy River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Still River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. C&R season begins September 1 in TMA.
Gunpowder Falls — September
BWOs (size 20-22) returning. Trico tail end. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Little Gunpowder Falls — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Big Hunting Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS in wild population.
Savage River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers — Trophy Trout designation = big fish.
North Branch Potomac River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Youghiogheny River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Casselman River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS, native population.
Antietam Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Catoctin Creek — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning.
Patuxent River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning.
Monocacy River — September
Cooling trend — fall stocking begins late month in some sections.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning.
Musconetcong River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Big Flat Brook — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Pequest River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Paulinskill River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Rockaway River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning.
Ramapo River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Cool water reactivates fish.
Wanaque River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Black River (Lamington River) — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Pequannock River — September
BWOs (size 18-20) returning. Brookie pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Deschutes River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16). Caddis. STEELHEAD peak — best month for two-handed swing fishing on the lower river.
McKenzie River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16). Caddis. Cutthroat aggressive on dry-dropper rigs.
Metolius River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16). PMDs tapering. Cool water — bull trout active.
North Umpqua River — September
STEELHEAD continuing — best month for swung-fly fishing. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Crisp mornings, low water.
Rogue River — September
HALF-POUNDERS and adult summer steelhead. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Best month for Rogue swung-fly action.
Williamson River — September
Tricos continue. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Big browns pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS late month.
Crooked River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Tricos continue. Cool nights, productive days.
Fall River — September
TRICOS continue. Mahogany Duns (size 16). BWOs returning. Spring-fed creek stays at perfect temperature.
Sandy River — September
STEELHEAD continuing. Coho salmon. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Crisp fall mornings.
Clackamas River — September
STEELHEAD continuing. Coho beginning. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns.
Grande Ronde River — September
SUMMER STEELHEAD at peak — best month for two-handed swing fishing. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns.
Wallowa River — September
SUMMER STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Best dry-fly month for resident trout.
John Day River — September
SUMMER STEELHEAD continuing in lower river. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Cool nights.
Sprague River — September
Tricos continue. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Big browns pre-spawn — RESPECT.
Wood River — September
Tricos continue. Mahogany Duns (size 16). BWOs returning. Trophy potential.
Hosmer Lake — September
Callibaetis returning. BWOs (size 18-20). Damselflies tapering. Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT.
Yakima River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16). Caddis. Cooler nights — best dry-fly month for redbands.
Wenatchee River — September
SUMMER STEELHEAD building. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Cool nights, productive dry fly for resident trout.
Methow River — September
SUMMER STEELHEAD continuing — release all. BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Best dry-fly month.
Skagit River — September
SUMMER STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Cool nights, prime swung-fly water.
Skykomish River — September
SUMMER STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Sea-run cutthroat starting.
Stillaguamish River — September
SUMMER STEELHEAD. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Sea-run cutthroat starting in lower river.
Sauk River — September
SUMMER STEELHEAD. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Cool nights — prime swung-fly water.
Hoh River — September
SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT at peak in lower river. Caddis. Crane Flies. Cool rainforest mornings.
Bogachiel River — September
SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT at peak. Caddis. Crane Flies. Cool rainforest mornings — productive dry fly.
Queets River — September
SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT at peak. Caddis. Crane Flies. Cool rainforest mornings.
Sol Duc River — September
SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT at peak. Caddis. Crane Flies. Cool rainforest mornings.
Snoqualmie River — September
SUMMER STEELHEAD. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Sea-run cutthroat starting.
Spokane River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Tricos continue. Cool nights, productive days.
Little Spokane River — September
TRICOS continue. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns. Brown trout pre-spawn — RESPECT.
Naches River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Cool nights, productive days.
Tucannon River — September
SUMMER STEELHEAD continuing — closures common. BWOs returning. Mahogany Duns.
Hat Creek — September
BWOs returning strong (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Tricos continue. Cool-morning hatches return — prime fall window.
Fall River — September
BWOs returning strong (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Cool air triggers excellent hatches in the meadows.
Pit River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16). PMDs tapering. Cool mornings — best fall window opening.
McCloud River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16). PMDs tapering. Cool air, native rainbows on the dry.
Upper Sacramento River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16). PMDs tapering. Crisp mornings — wild rainbows on dries.
Trinity River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning to push up from the Klamath.
Klamath River — September
BWOs returning. SUMMER STEELHEAD beginning to enter the river. Cool nights help fishery recover.
Feather River Low Flow Channel — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Excellent fall fishing as temperatures cool.
Truckee River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Cool mornings — best fall window opening.
Little Truckee River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Crisp mornings, focused fish, fewer anglers.
East Walker River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Tricos continue. Cool mornings — prime fall window.
West Walker River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis tapering. Cool mornings — short but productive fall window.
Lee Vining Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis tapering. Cool mornings — last reliable fall fishing before snow.
Owens River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Tricos continue. Crisp mornings, focused wild fish.
Hot Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Tricos continue. Cool mornings — the best month for the patient angler.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Cool mornings — short fall window before snow.
Kings River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis tapering. Cool mornings — last reliable fishing before snow returns.
Kern River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Cool mornings — last reliable backcountry window before snow.
Russian River — September
Cooler weather returning. Watch for fall rains that bring fresh steelhead. Verify rule changes.
Au Sable River — September
ISONYCHIA (Mahogany Dun, size 12-14) afternoons — fall fishing's big-fly hatch. BWOs (size 18-20) on overcast days. Cool nights; brown trout active and aggressive. Often the best month for large fish.
Au Sable North Branch — September
ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) afternoons. BWOs (size 18-20) on overcast days. Cool nights bring large browns to the surface. One of the best months.
Au Sable South Branch — September
ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) afternoons. BWOs (size 18-20). Cool nights, aggressive browns. Often the best month for large fish.
Pere Marquette River — September
ISONYCHIA (size 12-14). BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD beginning — fresh chrome from Lake Michigan late month. Salmon (Chinook, Coho) entering for spawn — fish around the runs.
Manistee River — September
ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) afternoons. BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD entering below Tippy. Chinook and Coho SALMON beginning their run.
Muskegon River — September
ISONYCHIA (size 12-14) afternoons. BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD entering. Chinook and Coho SALMON entering for spawn.
Jordan River — September
BWOs (size 18-20). Cool nights, aggressive browns. Wild brook trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS, focus on browns.
Boardman River — September
ISONYCHIA (size 12-14). BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD beginning to access newly freed upstream miles.
Betsie River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD beginning to enter from Lake Michigan. Salmon (Chinook, Coho) running.
Pine River — September
ISONYCHIA (size 12-14). BWOs (size 18-20). Cool nights, aggressive browns. One of the best months on the Pine.
Pigeon River — September
BWOs (size 18-20). Cool nights — last good month before brook trout spawn.
Sturgeon River — September
BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD entering via Burt Lake / Inland Waterway from Lake Michigan.
Black River — September
BWOs (size 18-20). Cool nights, active fish.
Two-Hearted River — September
BWOs (size 18-20). Brook trout spawning beginning later in month — RESPECT REDDS.
Fox River — September
BWOs (size 18-20). Brook trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS later in month.
Timber Coulee Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Trico spinner falls continuing. Caddis evenings. Cool nights bring active wild browns.
West Fork Kickapoo River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights — wild browns active.
Kickapoo River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights bring back larger browns. Tricos continuing.
Black Earth Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights — selective big browns active.
Mt. Vernon Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights. Wild browns active.
Elk Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights — wild browns active.
Blue River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights, active fish.
Seas Branch — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS later in month.
Tomorrow River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights — large browns active. Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS later in month.
Wolf River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights — large browns active. Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS late month.
Bois Brule River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD entering from Lake Superior. Mays Ledges closed Sep 1–May 31. Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Namekagon River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights — large browns active. Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS late month.
White River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS late month. Cool nights, active fish.
Prairie River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights — wild browns active.
Oconto River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD beginning to enter from Green Bay. Brown trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS late month.
Root River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Trico spinner falls continuing. Caddis evenings. Cool nights bring active wild browns.
South Branch Root River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights — wild browns active.
North Branch Root River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights, wild browns active.
Whitewater River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Wild browns active in cool nights.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Wild browns active in cool nights.
North Fork Whitewater River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights — wild browns active.
Trout Run Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights. Wild browns active.
Rush Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights — wild browns active.
Straight River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Cool nights — wild browns active.
Knife River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS late month. FALL COHO SALMON entering from Lake Superior on lower river.
Baptism River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. FALL COHO SALMON entering on lower river.
Cascade River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. FALL COHO SALMON entering on lower river.
Temperance River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. FALL COHO SALMON entering on lower river.
Brule River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. FALL COHO SALMON entering on lower river.
Poplar River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. FALL COHO SALMON entering on lower river.
Upper Iowa River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Caddis evenings. Cool nights — wild browns active.
Yellow River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights bring active wild browns.
Volga River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights — wild browns active.
Turkey River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights — large browns active.
Bloody Run Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights — wild browns active.
Paint Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights, active wild browns.
Bear Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights — wild browns active.
North Fork Maquoketa River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights — wild browns active.
Waterloo Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights — wild browns active.
French Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights — wild browns active.
Village Creek — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights, active fish.
White River — September
Tricos continuing (size 22-24) early morning. BWOs returning on cloudy days (size 18-20). Midges. Scuds.
North Fork River — September
BWOs returning on cloudy days (size 18-20). Midges. Scuds. Caddis tapering.
Little Red River — September
BWOs returning on cloudy days (size 18-20). Midges. Scuds. Big browns active pre-spawn.
Spring River — September
BWOs returning on cloudy days (size 18-20). Midges. Scuds. Caddis tapering.
Crooked Creek — September
BWOs returning on cloudy days (size 18-20). Midges. Caddis tapering. Cooler water brings fish back.
Chagrin River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights, fall pre-steelhead window.
Grand River — September
BWOs returning. Tricos continuing. Pre-steelhead fall window.
Rocky River — September
Cooling water. Pre-steelhead window. Caddis.
Vermilion River — September
Cooling water. Pre-steelhead window. Caddis.
Conneaut Creek — September
Cooling water. Pre-steelhead window.
Cuyahoga River — September
Cooling water. Pre-steelhead window.
Ashtabula River — September
Cooling water. Pre-steelhead window.
Mad River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights, active fish.
Big Darby Creek — September
Smallmouth feeding heavily as water cools. Streamers, crayfish, top-water.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — September
BWOs returning. Caddis tapering. Cooler water brings fish back.
Current River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights, active fish. White Fly tapering.
Jacks Fork River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights, active fish.
Eleven Point River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights.
North Fork of White River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos continuing. Cool nights, active wild fish.
Huzzah Creek — September
BWOs returning. Caddis tapering. Cooler water.
Gasconade River — September
Smallmouth feeding heavily as water cools. BWOs returning on the upper trout reach.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos tapering. Terrestrials still effective. Cooling water reactivates surface feeding.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos tapering. Terrestrials hanging on. Cool nights bring active wild fish back to the surface.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Terrestrials still effective. Cooling water re-activates surface feeding.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Terrestrials hang on. Cool nights bring active wild fish back to the surface in the deep wilderness pools.
Soque River — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Tricos tapering. Cool nights re-activate surface feeding.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — September
BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis tapering. Cool tailwater holds quality through summer into fall.
Kenai River — September
PRIME TROPHY RAINBOW MONTH. 28-30 inch fish caught regularly on flesh and beads. Coho (silver) salmon at peak run. Cooling water concentrates fish. The Kenai at its best.
Russian River — September
Rainbow trout peak. Big wild fish on egg patterns and flesh. Cool weather, fewer crowds, beautiful Cooper Landing fall colors. Catch-and-release strongly encouraged for rainbows.
Anchor River — September
STEELHEAD PEAK BEGINNING. Mid-September through October is prime — fish swung wet flies, egg patterns, small intruders. Sea-run Dollies at peak. Watch for upstream migration after rain.
Gulkana River — September
Excellent fall grayling fishing. BWO-style mayfly patterns become productive on cooler days. Cool nights drop water temp; fish concentrate in pools.
Situk River — September
Coho (silver) salmon at peak. Rainbows on eggs and flesh. Resident cutthroat in side channels.
Naknek River — September
PEAK TROPHY RAINBOW MONTH. The Naknek at its best — egg-laden water, big fish, drift boat fishery. Coho (silver) salmon at peak. Catch-and-release strongly encouraged or required on portions of the river.
Spearfish Creek — September
Caddis return, BWO (#18–20), Terrestrials tapering
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — September
Caddis, BWO, Terrestrials tapering
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — September
Caddis, BWO, Terrestrials
Spring Creek — September
Caddis, BWO
Whitewood Creek — September
Caddis, BWO
Castle Creek — September
Caddis, BWO
Cumberland River Tailwater — September
Midges, early Caddis. Brown trout pre-spawn becoming active — bigger streamers start to move fish.
Hatchery Creek — September
Midges, Scuds. Fish become more active as temps cool.
Green River Tailwater — September
Caddis, Midges. Trout fishing improves as water cools — stocking resumes mid-month.
Barren River Tailwater — September
Midges, BWO. Best fall trout action begins as water cools.
Rockcastle River — September
Terrestrials, Caddis. Streamers for Smallmouth; bass action peaks before water cools.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — September
BWO, Midges, small Caddis. Fall hatches return as water cools.
Rock Creek — September
Terrestrials winding down. Early Caddis return as water cools.
Truckee River — September
Caddis, BWO, Terrestrials tapering
East Walker River — September
Caddis return, BWO, Terrestrials tapering
West Walker River — September
Caddis, BWO, Terrestrials tapering
East Fork Carson River — September
Caddis, BWO
Lamoille Creek — September
Caddis, BWO, Terrestrials tapering; excellent fall conditions
South Fork Humboldt River — September
Caddis, BWO; flows typically recover
Guadalupe River — September
BWO returns, Tricos (#22–24); Caddis; bass still active
Llano River — September
Poppers return; Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; fall feeding push
Blanco River — September
Poppers; Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; carp still active
Pedernales River — September
Poppers; Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; flows typically improve
Frio River — September
Poppers; Clouser Minnows; Wooly Buggers; best undisturbed fishing of the year
South Llano River — September
Poppers; Clouser Minnows; Streamers
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — September
Light Cahills tapering; Caddis returning; BWO; Wooly Buggers
Cahaba River — September
Terrestrials; Poppers returning; Clouser Minnows; bass active
Little River Canyon — September
BWO (#18–20); Terrestrials; Poppers; fall feeding starts
Tallapoosa River — September
Terrestrials; Poppers; Streamers; bass feeding pre-winter
Paint Rock River — September
Terrestrials; Poppers; Clouser Minnows; fall feeding
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — September
Terrestrials; Poppers; Clouser Minnows; smallmouth fall feed
Blue River — September
BWO returning; Caddis; Midges; cooler nights bring back daytime fishing
Mountain Fork River — September
BWO returning (#18–20); Caddis; cooler temps revive daytime trout activity
Illinois River — September
Terrestrials; Poppers; Clouser Minnows; bass feeding pre-winter
Baron Fork — September
Terrestrials; Poppers; Clouser Minnows; smallmouth fall feeding
Glover River — September
Terrestrials; Poppers; Clouser Minnows; pre-winter feed when flows allow
Kiamichi River — September
Terrestrials; Poppers; Clouser Minnows; bass feeding pre-winter
October Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — October
Best BWO month — heavy hatches on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for aggressive pre-winter fish.
Arkansas River — October
Best BWO month (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing productive. Royal Gorge corridor excellent in October.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — October
BWOs peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for trophy rainbows in deep runs. Pueblo tailwater in October with less pressure — one of the best times to fish it.
Blue River — October
Best BWO month (size 18-20). Midges dominant. Flows consistent. Mysis imitations throughout. October on the Blue is underrated — fewer crowds than South Platte, same quality fish.
Bear Creek — October
BWOs on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. CDOW stocks heavily — stockers respond to egg patterns and bright attractor flies.
Colorado River — October
BWOs strong on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for large fish before winter. Remote and uncrowded.
Frying Pan River — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for aggressive large rainbows and browns. One of the most beautiful fall fisheries in Colorado. Fewer crowds after Labor Day.
Roaring Fork River — October
BWOs peak on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamers for large fish. The Roaring Fork in October is an underrated fall gem — one of Colorado's best.
Cache la Poudre River — October
BWOs strong on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Brown trout pre-spawn activity excellent. Poudre Canyon fall foliage is outstanding — worth the drive from Fort Collins.
Taylor River — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Midges dominant. Streamer fishing for aggressive fish before winter. Taylor in October is exceptional — fewer people, exceptional fish activity.
Gunnison River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for large trophy fish. Gunnison Gorge in October requires physical fitness — 4 trail options, all steep. Rewards exceptional.
Eagle River — October
BWOs strong on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamers for large pre-spawn browns. Eagle River fall fishing is the most underutilized angling in the I-70 corridor.
Yampa River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for large pre-spawn browns. Craig and the lower Yampa Canyon fishing well in October. 4WD recommended for some access points.
Rio Grande — October
BWOs peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-winter fish. Rio Grande is remote enough that October sees minimal pressure and very aggressive fish.
Crystal River — October
BWOs on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for larger fish. Crystal River in October sees almost no angling pressure — explore the canyon.
Dolores River — October
BWOs peak (size 18-20). Midges dominant. Streamer fishing for aggressive browns. Southwest Colorado October fishing is an underrated and beautiful experience.
North Platte River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for large pre-spawn browns. Northgate Canyon in October with zero pressure and trophy-class fish. AWD required for canyon access road.
Slate River — October
BWOs on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing possible for larger fish. October on the Slate is late season — prepare for early snow in Crested Butte.
San Juan River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. West Fork and above Pagosa are remote and beautiful in October fall colors.
Animas River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for large pre-spawn browns in the Gold Medal section. Purple Cliffs downstream boundary — explore below for less pressure.
East River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for larger browns in lower East River near Almont. Gothic road closing with snow — move to lower sections in October.
Fraser River — October
BWOs strong on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Fraser Valley winter comes early — October is often the last good month before conditions deteriorate.
Dream Stream — October
BWOs peak (size 18-20). FALL SPAWNING PEAK — 20"+ brown trout on the move through the meadow. Egg patterns (San Juan Worm, Sucker Spawn size 14-16) deadly for staging spawners alongside BWO dries. Best month for trophy fish.
Gore Creek — October
BWOs peak (size 18-20). Midges increasing. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Gore Creek brown trout can be surprisingly large. East Vail access points in October are outstanding.
Cheesman Canyon — October
BWOs peak (size 18-20). Midges increasing. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns in deeper pools. Early snow possible on the Gill Trail — check conditions and bring traction devices.
Williams Fork River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges dominant. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Williams Fork in October with peak fall colors and zero crowds. Underrated doesn't begin to cover it.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing at peak — large articulated streamers for the biggest browns of the year. Fall float fishing on this river is underappreciated.
Conejos River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for brown trout pre-spawn. October Conejos in full fall color — worth the drive. Wild cutthroat still active. Platoro road condition check required.
San Miguel River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns in canyon sections. October on the San Miguel in full canyon color — one of the most beautiful fall rivers in Colorado.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — October
BWOs peak (size 18-20). Midges increasing. Streamer fishing for spawning brown trout. October Lake Fork: 20"+ browns possible, remote canyon, zero pressure. Worth the drive from anywhere in Colorado.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — October
Best BWO month (size 18-20) on overcast days. Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. October on Grey Reef is exceptional — book early.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — October
Best BWO month (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for trophy pre-spawn browns. October on the Mile is legendary — but exposed and cold. Layer up.
Snake River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for large browns and big cutthroat. Cooling water concentrates fish. Spectacular fall scenery in Grand Teton National Park.
Green River — Fontenelle — October
Best BWO month (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for brown trout pre-spawn. Cottonwoods turning gold along the river. Outstanding fall conditions.
Shoshone River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Lower river fishes longer than upper. Outstanding fall fishing with light pressure.
Bighorn River — October
Best BWO month (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Tailwater excellence — book guides early for October.
Laramie River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Underrated fall fishery — easy access from Laramie.
New Fork River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for brown trout pre-spawn. Beautiful fall conditions. Cooling water concentrates fish.
Hoback River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Canyon cooling fast — fishing window narrowing. Outstanding October fishing while it lasts.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hoppers tapering early month. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Outstanding October fishing — peak month for solitude in the canyon.
Salt River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for browns. Cool nights, active cutthroat sipping in glass-flat meadow water.
Green River — October
Best BWO month (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooler temps, less pressure after Labor Day, active selective fish. October on the Green is prime time.
Provo River (Middle) — October
Best BWO month (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooler water, lower flows after irrigation. Fall on the Middle Provo is underrated — fewer crowds, big browns active.
Weber River — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Lower flows after irrigation season. Outstanding October on the Weber.
Ogden River — October
BWOs at peak (size 16-22). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooler water, lower flows. The South Fork Ogden (separate Blue Ribbon water) also worth targeting this month.
Strawberry River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hoppers tapering early month. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Low pressure — September through early October is the best Strawberry window for trophy browns.
Logan River — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns in the lower canyon. Cooler water concentrates fish. Outstanding October fishing — Blue Ribbon designation from 3rd Dam to the Idaho border.
Bear River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooler water concentrates fish in deeper runs. Outstanding October on a quiet big-river fishery.
Beaver River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for trophy browns. Last good fishing month before winter sets in. Quiet, uncrowded southern Utah water.
Fremont River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns and tigers. Hoppers tapering. Cooler water concentrates fish in the trophy section. Capitol Reef fall colors spectacular.
East Fork Sevier River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hoppers tapering early month. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooler water concentrates fish in deeper pools. Last good fishing month.
Oak Creek — October
Best month on Oak Creek. BWOs (size 18-20) at peak on cloudy days. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Cooler water, active fish, stocked rainbows joining wild browns. Plan a weekday trip.
West Fork Oak Creek — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Wild browns aggressive — pre-spawn streamer action in deeper pools. Fall colors in the canyon spectacular.
East Fork Black River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hoppers tapering. Streamer fishing for browns. First snow possible at elevation — fishing window narrowing fast. Last truly good month before winter.
West Fork Black River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Hoppers tapering. First snow possible at elevation — last good month. Plan exit before snow closes the roads.
North Fork White River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Last good fishing month before snow.
Canyon Creek — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hoppers tapering early month. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cool spring-fed water concentrates fish. Outstanding October fishing — last good month before primitive roads get sketchy.
Tonto Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20) strong on cloudy days. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Cooler water, active fish, stocked rainbows joining wild browns. Crowds light. Plan a weekday trip.
Silver Creek — October
October 1 — C&R season begins again. BWOs at peak (size 18-20) on cloudy days. Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooler water concentrates fish.
East Clear Creek — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hoppers tapering. Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Last truly good month before snow closes the approach roads.
Little Colorado River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hoppers tapering. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Flows dropping after monsoon ends — meadow stretches at their best.
Chevelon Creek — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Last good month — primitive 4WD roads close fast with first snow.
San Juan River — October
Best BWO month (size 20-22) on overcast days. Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. October on the Juan is legendary — book guides early.
Rio Grande — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooling water concentrates fish in deep runs. Outstanding fall fishing with light pressure.
Rio Chama — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Excellent fall fishing.
Cimarron River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish in pools. Fall fishing window — get out before it freezes.
Pecos River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns in lower sections. Wilderness sections cooling fast — fishing window narrowing at elevation.
Brazos River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Canyon cooling fast — fishing window narrowing. Outstanding October when accessible.
Red River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish in pools. Fall window before freeze-up.
Jemez River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Excellent fall fishing window before snow.
Gila River — October
BWOs returning strong (size 18-20) — second-best BWO month of the year. Hoppers still effective on warm afternoons. Fall colors in the cottonwoods through the canyon. Streamer fishing for browns.
Henry's Fork — October
Best BWO month (size 18-20) on overcast days — Mahogany Duns (size 16-18) at peak. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooler temps, less pressure, active selective fish.
South Fork Snake River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16-18). Streamer fishing prime for trophy browns staging to spawn. Hopper holdover possible early month. Fall colors through Swan Valley spectacular.
Silver Creek — October
BWOs at peak (size 20-22). Mahogany Duns (size 16-18). Cooler water, less pressure, the trout that survived August are now your reward. Streamer fishing on cloudy afternoons.
Big Wood River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish in deeper runs. Outstanding October fishing while it lasts.
South Fork Boise River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooler water, lower flows after irrigation season ends. Outstanding October on the SF Boise.
Salmon River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hoppers still effective early month. Steelhead in lower river — fall run building. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Outstanding October.
Clearwater River — October
FALL STEELHEAD RUN at peak — October is prime time on the Clearwater. Swung flies in classic runs. BWOs strong for resident trout. Outstanding fall fishing.
Lochsa River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hoppers tapering early month. Streamer fishing limited (C&R pocket water). Cooling water concentrates cutthroat in deeper pools. Last good fishing month.
Teton River — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16-18). Streamer fishing for browns. Cool nights, active cutthroat sipping in glass-flat meadow water.
Fall River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooling water concentrates fish in the deeper runs.
St. Joe River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hoppers tapering early month. Cooling water concentrates fish. Last good fishing month — most stretches closing for winter soon.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — October
FALL STEELHEAD RUN at peak — October is prime steelhead time on the Middle Fork. BWOs strong for resident trout. Outstanding fall fishing in the Wild & Scenic corridor.
Selway River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Hoppers tapering early month. Cooling water concentrates cutthroat in deeper pools. Bull trout post-spawn — leave them alone. Last good fishing month.
Boise River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooler water, lower flows after irrigation ends. Outstanding October walk-and-wade fishing minutes from downtown Boise.
Madison River — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. October Madison is legendary — fewer crowds than summer and aggressive trout.
Missouri River — October
Best BWO month (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns (size 16-18) possible. Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. October Missouri is legendary — book guides early.
Yellowstone River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. October on the Yellowstone is legendary — fewer crowds, aggressive trout, peak fall scenery.
Big Hole River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Outstanding fall fishing with light pressure — the Big Hole shines in October.
Bitterroot River — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. October on the Bitterroot is excellent — fewer crowds, cooling water, aggressive trout.
Clark Fork River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns and bull trout (release immediately). October on the Clark Fork is excellent — fewer crowds, cooling water, aggressive trout.
Blackfoot River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooling water concentrates fish in deeper pools. Outstanding October fishing — fewer crowds than summer.
Gallatin River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Outstanding October fishing in the canyon — Big Sky still uncrowded.
Flathead River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Last good fishing month before snow closes access in the upper Wild & Scenic stretches.
Smith River — October
Lower river fishing only — canyon closed. BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Outstanding fall fishing on the lower river without crowds.
Rock Creek — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish in deeper pools. Outstanding October fishing — Rock Creek shines after summer crowds leave.
Stillwater River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Outstanding October fishing in the canyon — peak month for solitude.
Boulder River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Outstanding October fishing — peak month for solitude on the Boulder.
Sun River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Underrated October fishery — fewer crowds than nearby Missouri.
Ruby River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cooling water concentrates fish. Outstanding October fishing — but mind the bridge-access landowner conflicts.
Rapidan River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20) on overcast days. Midges. Brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS in shallow gravel. Beautiful fall colors in the SNP. Best month for wild fish.
South River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20) on overcast days. Midges picking up. Brown trout pre-spawn aggression — streamer fishing strong. Excellent fall fishing.
Jackson River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Brown trout pre-spawn aggression — streamer fishing strong. Outstanding October on the Jackson.
North Fork Shenandoah River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Cooling water excellent for trout in stocked sections. Smallmouth still active. Strong all-around month.
Bullpasture River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Brown trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Beautiful Highland County fall — light pressure.
Maury River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn — streamer fishing strong. RESPECT REDDS in shallow gravel runs.
Rose River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, give spawners space. Fish non-spawning water with small attractors and BWO emergers.
Conway River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, fish non-spawning water only. Catch-and-release artificial only year-round.
Passage Creek — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Brown trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Beautiful Fort Valley fall colors with very light pressure.
Davidson River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn aggression — streamer fishing strong. Davidson DH section back to artificial-only catch-and-release Oct 1.
Watauga River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn — streamers strong. RESPECT REDDS. Beautiful fall colors in the High Country.
Nantahala River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Brown trout pre-spawn — streamers strong. Cold consistent flows + active hatches.
New River (North Carolina) — October
BWO peak (size 18-20) in trout sections. Smallmouth still active in lower sections. Brook trout pre-spawn in headwaters — RESPECT REDDS.
Oconaluftee River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, GSMNP regs require all brookies released.
French Broad River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn aggression — streamer fishing strong. Beautiful Transylvania County fall colors.
Cataloochee Creek — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, fish non-spawning water. GSMNP regs require all brookies released.
Linville River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn — streamer fishing strong. RESPECT REDDS in shallow gravel runs. Beautiful gorge fall.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn aggression — streamers strong. Excellent fall tailwater fishing.
Little River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, GSMNP regs require all brookies released.
Tellico River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn — streamers strong. RESPECT REDDS. Fall stocking returns in HS sections.
Cranberry River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, fish non-spawning water. Catch-and-release sections strict.
South Branch Potomac River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Smallmouth still active early month. Brown trout pre-spawn — streamers. RESPECT REDDS. Smoke Hole fall colors stunning.
Elk River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn — streamers strong. Brook trout SPAWNING in headwaters — RESPECT REDDS.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, fish non-spawning water. Catch-and-release sections strict.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn — streamers strong. RESPECT REDDS. Smoke Hole fall colors stunning — bucket-list fall fishing.
Williams River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, fish non-spawning water. Brown trout pre-spawn streamer fishing strong.
Greenbrier River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Midges. Brown trout pre-spawn aggression — streamers strong. RESPECT REDDS. Beautiful Pocahontas County fall.
Beaverkill River — October
BWO PEAK (size 18-20) — best fall dry-fly month. Midges. Streamer fishing for big pre-spawn browns. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
Willowemoc Creek — October
BWO PEAK (size 18-20) — best fall dry-fly month. Midges. Streamer fishing for big pre-spawn browns. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
East Branch Delaware River — October
BWO PEAK continuing (size 18-20). Streamers for large pre-spawn wild browns. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. NYC DEP minimum releases keep flows predictable.
West Branch Delaware River — October
BWO PEAK continuing (size 18-20). Streamers for trophy pre-spawn browns. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Reservoir releases stable.
Esopus Creek — October
BWO PEAK (size 18-20). Isonychia tail end. Brown trout pre-spawn — streamers strong. RESPECT REDDS. Beautiful Catskills fall colors.
Schoharie Creek — October
BWO PEAK (size 18-20). Brown trout pre-spawn — streamers. RESPECT REDDS. Northern Catskills fall colors stunning.
Neversink River — October
BWO PEAK (size 18-20). Brown trout pre-spawn — streamers strong. RESPECT REDDS. Beautiful Catskills fall.
Rondout Creek — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brown trout pre-spawn. RESPECT REDDS. Brookies in upper tribs SPAWNING — fish lower water.
Ausable River (East Branch) — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, brookie season may already be closed. Brown trout streamers in lower river.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Lake-run fish present. Brook trout SPAWNING — brookie season may close. Brown trout streamers.
Saranac River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Lake-run rainbows present in lower river. Brook trout SPAWNING. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Raquette River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, brookie season often closed by mid-October in ADK. Brown trout streamers.
Black River (upper) — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brown trout pre-spawn — streamers. Brook trout SPAWNING in tributaries — RESPECT REDDS.
Penns Creek — October
BWO PEAK (size 18-20) — best fall dry-fly month. Streamers for big pre-spawn browns. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
Spring Creek — October
BWOs continuing strong (size 18-20). Streamers for big pre-spawn browns. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
Big Fishing Creek — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Streamers for pre-spawn browns. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
Little Juniata River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Streamers for big pre-spawn browns — the Little J holds 20+ inch wild fish. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
Yellow Breeches Creek — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Trico tail end. Streamers for big pre-spawn browns. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
Tulpehocken Creek — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Streamers for large carryover trout. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
Brodhead Creek — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Streamers for big pre-spawn browns. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
Bushkill Creek — October
BWO peak (size 18-20) on stable fall flows. Brown trout pre-spawn — streamers. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Loyalsock Creek — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Streamers for pre-spawn browns. Brook trout SPAWNING in tributaries — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout SPAWNING late month.
Pine Creek — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Streamers for big pre-spawn browns. Brook trout SPAWNING in tributaries — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout SPAWNING late.
Kettle Creek — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brook trout SPAWNING in upper reaches — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Young Womans Creek — October
Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, brookie season closure may apply. Stream effectively done for the year.
Battenkill River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20) — best fall dry-fly month. Streamers for big pre-spawn browns. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
White River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Streamers for pre-spawn browns. Brook trout SPAWNING in tributaries — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout SPAWNING late month.
Mad River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers. Beautiful Mad River Valley fall.
Lamoille River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). LAKE-RUN RAINBOWS at peak — egg patterns, streamers, and indicator nymphing for Champlain steelhead-style fish. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
Winooski River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Streamers for pre-spawn browns. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
Dog River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers in deeper pools.
Black River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brook trout SPAWNING in upper reaches — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
West River — October
BWO peak continuing. Streamers for trophy pre-spawn browns. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS. Watch USACE schedule.
Williams River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Missisquoi River — October
BWO peak (size 18-20). Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, season may close in some VT waters. Brown trout streamers in lower reaches.
West Branch Penobscot — October
BWO peak. FALL SALMON RUN — streamers and egg patterns. Cool tailwater concentrates fish. Watch for salmon SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — October
BWO peak. FALL SALMON RUN — streamers, smelt patterns, egg flies. Salmon SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Kennebec River – The Forks — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Fall salmon push in upper sections.
Dead River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Sandy River — October
BWO peak. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Carrabassett River — October
BWO peak. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, especially in upper Heritage water.
Magalloway River — October
BWO peak. Salmon and brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Fly-fishing-only sections.
Narraguagus River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS PEAK. BWOs. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, including spawning salters in upper reaches.
Rapid River — October
BWO peak. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Cold and beautiful — last window before lock-up.
Roach River — October
BWO peak. Salmon and brookie SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Heritage Brook Trout designation on portions.
Kennebago River — October
BWO peak. Salmon and brookie SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Last window before ice-up.
Ellis River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Swift River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers. Holdover browns active.
Saco River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers. Brown trout SPAWNING late month — RESPECT REDDS.
Androscoggin River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. C&R section below Berlin.
Pemigewasset River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Wild River — October
BWO peak. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Last window before lock-up.
Ammonoosuc River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — October
BWO peak. Salmon SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Streamers for trophy fish.
Smith River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Cold River — October
BWO peak. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, especially in this native population.
Deerfield River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS in upper C&R section. Streamers for big browns.
Swift River — October
BWO peak (size 20-22). Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Midges resurgent.
Westfield River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brook trout spawning in upper tributaries.
West Branch Westfield River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brookie spawning in tributaries.
East Branch Westfield River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS in C&R corridor.
Millers River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Squannacook River — October
BWO peak. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Nissitissit River — October
BWO peak. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout pre-spawn streamers.
Cold River — October
BWO peak. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, especially in this native population.
Farmington River (MA Section) — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Ware River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brook trout spawning in headwaters.
Farmington River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS in the TMA. Streamers for big browns.
Housatonic River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS in fly-only section. Trophy browns to streamers.
Salmon River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Salmon restoration program — handle Atlantic salmon with care.
Willimantic River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brook trout spawning.
Natchaug River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brook trout spawning.
Shepaug River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brookie spawning.
Mad River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Bantam River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout pre-spawn — moving back to lake.
Blackledge River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, especially near Salmon TMA confluence.
Jeremy River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brook trout spawning.
Still River — October
BWO peak. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS, especially in this wild population.
Gunpowder Falls — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS in the C&R section. Streamers for big browns.
Little Gunpowder Falls — October
BWO peak. Holdover browns SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Big Hunting Creek — October
BWO peak. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout spawning.
Savage River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS in the canyon. Streamers for trophy browns.
North Branch Potomac River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS in special management sections.
Youghiogheny River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brookie spawning.
Casselman River — October
BWO peak. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brown trout spawning.
Antietam Creek — October
BWO peak. Holdover browns spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Catoctin Creek — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Patuxent River — October
BWO peak. Holdover browns spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Monocacy River — October
Fall stocking activity. BWOs. Cool water returns.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS in the gorge C&R section.
Musconetcong River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Big Flat Brook — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brookie spawning.
Pequest River — October
BWO peak. Holdover browns SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Paulinskill River — October
BWO peak. Holdover browns spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Rockaway River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Ramapo River — October
BWO peak. Holdover browns spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Wanaque River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Black River (Lamington River) — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS in Hacklebarney section.
Pequannock River — October
BWO peak. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Brookie spawning.
Deschutes River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 6-8) — massive orange caddis. BWOs strong. Mahogany Duns. Steelhead continuing. One of the best dry-fly months.
McKenzie River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8) — massive orange caddis hatches. BWOs. Mahogany Duns. Best fall dry-fly month.
Metolius River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). BWOs strong on overcast days. Mahogany Duns. Underrated fall dry-fly.
North Umpqua River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). BWOs strong. Steelhead in upper fly water. Trout dry-fly action returning.
Rogue River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). BWOs strong. Steelhead in upper river. Best fall trout dry-fly above Lost Creek.
Williamson River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Streamer fishing big.
Crooked River — October
BWOs strong on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Best fall month — fewer crowds.
Fall River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Tricos tapering. Brown trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Sandy River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). BWOs strong. Steelhead in upper river. Coho salmon fishing.
Clackamas River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). BWOs strong. Steelhead. Coho salmon. Best fall month.
Grande Ronde River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). STEELHEAD continuing — peak month. BWOs strong. Best fall fishing.
Wallowa River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs strong. Bull trout pre-spawn — RESPECT.
John Day River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). STEELHEAD in lower river. BWOs strong. Best fall floating month.
Sprague River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Wood River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Brown trout pre-spawn — RESPECT.
Hosmer Lake — October
BWOs strong on overcast days. Midges. Brook trout SPAWNING — RESPECT and avoid spawning bays.
Yakima River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8) — heavy orange caddis. BWOs strong. Mahogany Duns. Best fall trout month — fewer crowds.
Wenatchee River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs strong. Best fall month for steelhead and trout combined.
Methow River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). STEELHEAD continuing — release all. BWOs strong. Best fall trout month.
Skagit River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs strong. Best fall month for swing fishing.
Skykomish River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). STEELHEAD. SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT in lower river. BWOs strong. Best fall month.
Stillaguamish River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). STEELHEAD. SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT. BWOs strong. Best fall fishing.
Sauk River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). STEELHEAD continuing. BWOs strong. Bull trout pre-spawn — RESPECT.
Hoh River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT continuing. CRANE FLIES (rainforest specialty). BWOs strong.
Bogachiel River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT continuing. CRANE FLIES. BWOs strong.
Queets River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT. CRANE FLIES. BWOs strong.
Sol Duc River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT continuing. CRANE FLIES. BWOs strong.
Snoqualmie River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). STEELHEAD. SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT. BWOs strong.
Spokane River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). BWOs strong. Mahogany Duns. Best fall month for browns.
Little Spokane River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Mahogany Duns. Tricos tapering. Brown trout pre-spawn.
Naches River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). BWOs strong. Mahogany Duns. Best fall trout month.
Tucannon River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). STEELHEAD when open. BWOs strong. Best fall fishing.
Hat Creek — October
BEST BWO month (size 18-20) on overcast days. Midges picking up. Cool weather, fewer crowds, focused fish.
Fall River — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Crisp mornings, focused fish, fewer boats on the river.
Pit River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 6-8) — massive orange caddis. BWOs strong. Mahogany Duns. One of the best fall dry-fly months.
McCloud River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 6-8). BWOs strong on cloudy days. Mahogany Duns. Best fall dry-fly month on the McCloud.
Upper Sacramento River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 6-8). BWOs strong. Mahogany Duns. One of the best fall dry-fly months in California.
Trinity River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). FALL STEELHEAD beginning to enter — swung flies and skated dries. BWOs strong.
Klamath River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). FALL STEELHEAD beginning — historic fly water. Salmon also returning to newly-opened upstream habitat.
Feather River Low Flow Channel — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis. Cool fall conditions — one of the best months on the channel.
Truckee River — October
OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8). BWOs strong on cloudy days. Brown trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS.
Little Truckee River — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Fall is prime time on the Little T.
East Walker River — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Trophy brown trout aggressive pre-spawn.
West Walker River — October
BWOs strong on cloudy days (size 18-20). Caddis tapering. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Lee Vining Creek — October
BWOs on cloudy days. Cooling water. Tioga Pass typically closes mid-month — short fall window.
Owens River — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Brown trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS.
Hot Creek — October
BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Brilliant fall colors, focused fish, fewer crowds.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — October
BWOs on cloudy days. Cooling water. Backcountry access closing as snow returns.
Kings River — October
BWOs on cloudy days. Cooling water. Kings Canyon road typically closes mid-to-late month.
Kern River — October
BWOs strong on cloudy days. Caddis tapering. Wilderness trails closing as snow returns. Lower river still fishes.
Russian River — October
Watch for fall rains — the river opens up when flows rise. First steelhead may begin to push in late month.
Au Sable River — October
ISONYCHIA continues (size 12-14). BWOs (size 18-20) on cloudy days. Brown trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn aggressive fish.
Au Sable North Branch — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brown trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS. Most NB sections close September 30. Verify Crawford County regs.
Au Sable South Branch — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brown trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS. Most sections close September 30.
Pere Marquette River — October
FALL STEELHEAD at peak — the PM is one of Michigan's top fall steelhead rivers. Egg patterns near spawning salmon, swung flies, indicator nymphing. ISONYCHIA dries when present.
Manistee River — October
PEAK SALMON RUN (Chinook, Coho) below Tippy Dam — spawning fish, eggs drifting downstream feeding steelhead. FALL STEELHEAD strong. Streamers and egg patterns.
Muskegon River — October
PEAK SALMON RUN below Croton. FALL STEELHEAD strong. Egg patterns drifting downstream of spawning salmon. Streamers for aggressive pre-winter browns.
Jordan River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brown trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS. Most sections close September 30.
Boardman River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD strong on lower river. Watch for new spawning activity in newly accessible upstream reaches.
Betsie River — October
FALL STEELHEAD strong. Salmon spawning. Egg patterns and streamers. One of Michigan's top fall steelhead rivers.
Pine River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Most sections close September 30.
Pigeon River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brook trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS. Most sections close September 30.
Sturgeon River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD in lower river. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Trout sections closing.
Black River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Most sections close September 30.
Two-Hearted River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brook trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Most sections close September 30.
Fox River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brook trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Most sections close September 30.
Timber Coulee Creek — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8-12) — large orange caddis in late season Driftless reaches. Brown trout pre-spawn aggressive. Most sections close October 15 in WI; verify.
West Fork Kickapoo River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). OCTOBER CADDIS late season. Pre-spawn browns. Most sections close October 15.
Kickapoo River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). OCTOBER CADDIS. Pre-spawn browns aggressive on streamers. Most sections close October 15.
Black Earth Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20). OCTOBER CADDIS. Pre-spawn browns. Most sections close October 15. Heavy pressure through season-end.
Mt. Vernon Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis late season. Pre-spawn browns. Sections close October 15.
Elk Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn browns. Sections close October 15.
Blue River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis late season. Pre-spawn browns. Sections close October 15. C&R / artificials only year-round.
Seas Branch — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brook trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS, fish elsewhere or use extreme care. Most sections close October 15.
Tomorrow River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brown and brook trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS. Sections close October 15.
Wolf River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brown and brook trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Sections close October 15.
Bois Brule River — October
FALL STEELHEAD at peak. Box Car Hole closed through Oct 31. BWOs. Egg patterns and nymphs. The Brule's legendary fall steelhead season.
Namekagon River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brown and brook trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Sections close October 15.
White River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brook and brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Sections close October 15.
Prairie River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brown and brook trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS later in month. Sections close October 15.
Oconto River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD strong on lower river. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Trout sections close October 15.
Root River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Brown trout pre-spawn aggressive on streamers. Most sections close mid-late October per MN DNR — verify section-by-section closures.
South Branch Root River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Pre-spawn browns. Sections close mid-late October per MN DNR.
North Branch Root River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Pre-spawn browns. Sections close mid-late October.
Whitewater River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Brown trout pre-spawn. Outside park: sections close mid-late October. Inside park: year-round C&R continues.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Pre-spawn browns. Sections close mid-late October per MN DNR.
North Fork Whitewater River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Pre-spawn browns. Sections close mid-late October.
Trout Run Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Pre-spawn browns. Sections close mid-late October.
Rush Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Pre-spawn browns. Sections close mid-late October.
Straight River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). Pre-spawn browns. Sections close mid-late October.
Knife River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD beginning. FALL COHO SALMON active on lower river. Brook trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Baptism River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD beginning. FALL COHO SALMON active. Brook trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Cascade River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD beginning. FALL COHO SALMON active. Brook trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Temperance River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD beginning. FALL COHO SALMON active. Brook trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Brule River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD beginning. FALL COHO SALMON active. Brook trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Poplar River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). FALL STEELHEAD beginning. FALL COHO SALMON active. Brook trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Upper Iowa River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). OCTOBER CADDIS (size 8-12) — large orange caddis on Driftless reaches. Pre-spawn brown trout aggressive.
Yellow River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn brown trout aggressive.
Volga River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn browns aggressive.
Turkey River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn browns aggressive on streamers.
Bloody Run Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis late season. Pre-spawn browns. C&R / artificials only year-round.
Paint Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn browns aggressive.
Bear Creek — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). October Caddis late season. Pre-spawn browns aggressive.
North Fork Maquoketa River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn browns aggressive.
Waterloo Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis late season. Pre-spawn browns. C&R / artificials only year-round.
French Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn browns aggressive.
Village Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn browns aggressive.
White River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges. Scuds. Brown trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS in spawning gravel. Generation lighter as power demand drops.
North Fork River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges. Scuds. Brown trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Little Red River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges. Scuds. Brown trout pre-spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Trophy class window.
Spring River — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges. Scuds. Less pressure as summer crowds thin out.
Crooked Creek — October
BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges. Cooler fall water fishes well.
Chagrin River — October
STEELHEAD fall run begins (late October). BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Egg patterns ready for early arrivals.
Grand River — October
STEELHEAD fall run begins (late October). BWOs. October Caddis. Egg patterns for early arrivals.
Rocky River — October
STEELHEAD fall run begins (late October). BWOs. Egg patterns for early arrivals.
Vermilion River — October
STEELHEAD fall run begins (late October). BWOs. Egg patterns for early arrivals.
Conneaut Creek — October
STEELHEAD fall run begins (late October). BWOs. Egg patterns for early arrivals.
Cuyahoga River — October
STEELHEAD fall run begins (late October). BWOs. Egg patterns for early arrivals.
Ashtabula River — October
STEELHEAD fall run begins (late October). BWOs. Egg patterns for early arrivals.
Mad River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn browns aggressive.
Big Darby Creek — October
Cooling water — smallmouth concentrating in deeper holes. Streamers.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Fall stocking — fresh trout active.
Current River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn browns aggressive — streamer time.
Jacks Fork River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn browns aggressive — streamer time.
Eleven Point River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn wild browns aggressive.
North Fork of White River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn wild browns aggressive — premium streamer time.
Huzzah Creek — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Fall stocking — fresh trout active.
Gasconade River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis on upper reach. Fall stocking — fresh trout. Smallmouth concentrating.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — October
BWOs (size 18-20) at peak. October Caddis. Fall stocking. Terrestrials still on the menu in warm afternoons. Excellent month on the Helen headwaters.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. DH section reopens Nov 1. Pre-spawn wild browns aggressive — streamer time on the bigger pools.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Fall stocking. Pre-spawn wild browns aggressive on streamers in deep pools.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn wild browns aggressive on streamers. Last month before the Nov 1 artificial-only restriction.
Soque River — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Fall stocking on public reaches. Pre-spawn wild browns on streamers in deeper pools.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — October
BWOs (size 18-20). October Caddis. Pre-spawn trophy browns aggressive on streamers — this is when 26" fish get caught.
Kenai River — October
Continued trophy rainbow window — flesh, beads, and articulated streamers. Coho tapering. Late-season Dolly Varden. Crowds thin out after Labor Day.
Russian River — October
Continued strong rainbow fishing on eggs and flesh. Late Dolly Varden. Cooler water concentrates fish. Sterling Highway access remains open.
Anchor River — October
PEAK STEELHEAD MONTH. Sept–October is the Anchor at its best — wadeable water, southerly access via the Sterling Highway, sea-run fish in pools and runs.
Gulkana River — October
Late grayling window. Cold weather. Streamer fishing for rainbows in deeper holes. River begins to chill rapidly.
Situk River — October
Coho continuing. Rainbows on flesh and eggs. Cool fall conditions; coastal forest at peak color.
Naknek River — October
Continued strong trophy rainbow fishing on flesh, eggs, and articulated patterns. Coho tapering. Cool weather concentrates large fish in deep runs. End-of-season trip windows.
Spearfish Creek — October
BWO peak, Caddis, Midges; brown trout pre-spawn
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — October
BWO peak, Caddis, Midges
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — October
BWO, Caddis, Midges; fall stocking
Spring Creek — October
BWO, Caddis, Midges
Whitewood Creek — October
BWO, Caddis, Midges
Castle Creek — October
BWO, Caddis, Midges
Cumberland River Tailwater — October
BWO (peak), Caddis, midges. Brown trout pre-spawn aggressive — best fall fishing of the year on the Cumberland.
Hatchery Creek — October
Midges (#20–24), Scuds. C&R season opens Oct 1 — lower section now artificial-only catch-and-release.
Green River Tailwater — October
BWO, Caddis, Midges. Best fall fishing — fresh stockers plus cooling temps.
Barren River Tailwater — October
Midges, BWO. Fall stocking; trout fishing peaks for the year.
Rockcastle River — October
October Caddis (#10–12), BWO, Midges. Fall trout stocking — best fall fishing of the year.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — October
BWO (peak), Midges, small Caddis. C&R season opens Oct 1 — fresh stocking, peak action.
Rock Creek — October
October Caddis (#10–12, orange/rust Elk Hair), BWO. C&R season opens Oct 1; brown trout stocking adds trophy potential.
Truckee River — October
BWO peak, Caddis, Midges; brown trout active
East Walker River — October
BWO peak, Caddis, Midges; brown trout pre-spawn aggressive
West Walker River — October
BWO, Caddis, Midges
East Fork Carson River — October
BWO, Caddis, Midges
Lamoille Creek — October
BWO, Caddis, Midges; fall colors in canyon
South Fork Humboldt River — October
BWO, Caddis, Midges
Guadalupe River — October
Grey Drakes (#10–12), BWO, Caddis; excellent fall bass fishing
Llano River — October
Clouser Minnows, Streamers; Poppers in warm afternoons; excellent fall month
Blanco River — October
Poppers; Streamers; carp in warming afternoons
Pedernales River — October
Poppers; Streamers; excellent fall Guadalupe bass
Frio River — October
Poppers; Streamers; fall is the secret best season here
South Llano River — October
Poppers; Streamers; excellent fall bass
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — October
BWO (#18–20); Caddis; Midges; streamer fishing improves
Cahaba River — October
Streamers; Poppers in warm afternoons; fall feeding push
Little River Canyon — October
BWO; Caddis returning; Poppers; Streamers; peak fall fishing
Tallapoosa River — October
Caddis returning; Poppers; Streamers; striped bass push back up
Paint Rock River — October
Streamers; Poppers in warm afternoons; bass active
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — October
Streamers; Poppers on warm afternoons; excellent fall bass
Blue River — October
BWO (#18–20); Caddis; Midges; classic fall trout window; pre-stocking lull
Mountain Fork River — October
BWO; Caddis; Midges; San Juan Worms; classic fall tailwater fishing
Illinois River — October
Poppers; Streamers; Clouser Minnows; peak fall smallmouth on the float stretches
Baron Fork — October
Poppers on warm afternoons; Streamers; classic fall float window
Glover River — October
Poppers; Streamers; classic fall window if rains bring up flow
Kiamichi River — October
Poppers; Streamers; Clouser Minnows; fall float window
November Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — November
BWOs on warm/cloudy afternoons (size 20-22). Midges dominant. Streamers for big fish. Water cooling and clearing fast.
Arkansas River — November
BWOs on overcast afternoons. Midges dominant. Streamer fishing for large browns. Flows stable and clear.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — November
Midges dominant (size 20-26). BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing. Reservoir regulation keeps flows stable. Pueblo's mild climate means November is comfortable fishing.
Blue River — November
Midges primary. BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Mysis shrimp year-round. Reservoir regulation maintains fishable conditions through late fall. One of the last rivers to become difficult.
Bear Creek — November
Midges primary. BWOs possible on mild afternoons. Stream slowing for winter. Small stream winter fishing for the dedicated.
Colorado River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing. Big remote river — fewer crowds, serious fish.
Frying Pan River — November
Midges dominant (size 20-26). BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Streamer fishing productive. Reservoir regulation keeps flows consistent through late fall. The Pan never really stops fishing.
Roaring Fork River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for large pre-spawn browns. Flows dropping and clearing. Upper Fork near Aspen cooling fast.
Cache la Poudre River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for large browns. Canyon narrows above Poudre Park are beautiful in November. Light pressure.
Taylor River — November
Midges (size 22-28) primary. BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Reservoir regulation keeps flows consistent through late fall. The Taylor in November is an underrated gem for serious anglers.
Gunnison River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on overcast afternoons. Streamers for large fish. Black Canyon section requires technical scrambling — plan carefully, check trail conditions.
Eagle River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns. Flows dropping and clearing post-fall. Gypsum section most reliable November access.
Yampa River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing. Steamboat Springs section accessible year-round through town. Yampa winding down for the season.
Rio Grande — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for large browns. Upper valley cools fast — check road conditions for Creede and South Fork access as snow arrives.
Crystal River — November
Midges primary. BWOs on mild afternoons. Small stream winter fishing for the dedicated. Crystal Valley scenery spectacular in fall. Upper sections begin icing over.
Dolores River — November
Midges primary. BWOs on mild afternoons. Tailwater stays fishable. Cortez/Dolores area has milder late-fall weather than mountain towns. Good option when high country is locked up.
North Platte River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing. North Park roads becoming treacherous — check conditions before driving to Walden. Season ending fast.
Slate River — November
Midges primary. Slate River Road may become impassable with early snow. Small stream fishing for the dedicated — beautiful but demanding. Season essentially over by late November.
San Juan River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Pagosa Springs clinic climate makes late-season fishing comfortable. Riverwalk stretch accessible through November.
Animas River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns. Durango's mild climate extends the season comfortably through November.
East River — November
Midges primary. BWOs on mild afternoons. Gothic section inaccessible. Almont and CB South area most accessible late-season. Season wrapping up fast as Crested Butte enters ski season.
Fraser River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Flows dropping post-season. Grand County weather deteriorating — check road conditions and dress for mountain cold before heading to Winter Park.
Dream Stream — November
Midges (size 22-26) dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Post-spawn browns feeding aggressively. Fewer crowds than summer — November Dream Stream is one of Colorado's great secrets. Cold but worth it.
Gore Creek — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for browns. Vail shifts into ski season mode — Gore Creek fishes quietly while the mountain gets the attention.
Cheesman Canyon — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Late-season canyon fishing. Shorter days mean faster hike-out — plan accordingly. Trail conditions deteriorating with early snow.
Williams Fork River — November
Midges primary. BWOs on mild afternoons. Reservoir regulation keeps flows consistent. Cold and remote Grand County conditions. Worth every mile for serious winter fishing.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for post-spawn browns. Flows dropping and clearing. River returning to wade-friendly levels at Pumphouse access.
Conejos River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing. Upper Conejos and Platoro area may have early snow and road closures by November. Lower CO-17 sections accessible later into the season.
San Miguel River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing. Mountain road conditions deteriorating — check before driving upper CO-145 and CO-62 sections. Lower canyon near Naturita accessible.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for post-spawn browns feeding aggressively. CO-149 accessible but check weather — Lake City area can have early snow in November.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — November
Midges dominant (size 20-24). BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout pre-spawn streamer fishing peaks. Tailwater stays open while Wyoming freestones freeze.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawn — streamer fishing peak. Remote and exposed — wind and cold can be brutal.
Snake River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Midges. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Cold mornings, occasional snow. River begins to slow toward winter.
Green River — Fontenelle — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for large browns. Tailwater stays open while WY freestones freeze.
Shoshone River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Upper sections starting to ice — fish lower river near Cody.
Bighorn River — November
Midges dominant (size 20-24). BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing peak — brown trout spawn. Tailwater stays open while WY freezes.
Laramie River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout pre-spawn streamer fishing. Sections beginning to freeze — fish deeper pools.
New Fork River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing. Sections beginning to freeze. Late season fishing for the dedicated.
Hoback River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Canyon beginning to freeze. Limited late-season opportunities.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — November
Midges in canyon pools. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Beartooth access closing for winter. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Salt River — November
Midges (size 22-24) primary. BWOs on mild afternoons (size 20-22). Sections beginning to ice in shaded stretches. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Green River — November
Midges dominant (size 18-22). BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater stays open through the coldest weeks. Flaming Gorge releases keep water near 50°F.
Provo River (Middle) — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater stays open while area freestones freeze. Releases back to base flows.
Weber River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons (size 20-22). Midges dominant. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Lower river through Ogden warming corridor begins to freeze.
Ogden River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater stays open through cold snaps thanks to Pineview releases.
Strawberry River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Sections beginning to ice. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Logan River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Upper canyon beginning to ice. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Bear River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Beaver River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Late-season fishing for the dedicated few.
Fremont River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
East Fork Sevier River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Oak Creek — November
BWOs continue (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Cooler temperatures bring browns to streamers. Stocking schedule resumes for the cool season — check AZGFD.
West Fork Oak Creek — November
BWOs on overcast afternoons (size 20-22). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Cooler air, fewer crowds, quiet canyon water.
East Fork Black River — November
Sections beginning to ice. Limited late-season fishing. FR 276 closing with first heavy snow. Plan for next year.
West Fork Black River — November
Roads closing with first heavy snow. Limited late-season opportunities. Most years done by mid-November.
North Fork White River — November
Sections beginning to ice. Tribal permit season typically winding down. Limited late-season opportunities.
Canyon Creek — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Roads can be impassable after first snows. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Tonto Creek — November
BWOs continue (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Cooler temperatures bring browns to streamers. Stocking schedule resumes for the cool season.
Silver Creek — November
BWOs continue (size 18-20). Midges dominant. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. C&R regulations enforced — single barbless artificials only.
East Clear Creek — November
Sections beginning to ice. Approach roads can close with first heavy snow. Limited late-season opportunities for the dedicated.
Little Colorado River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Chevelon Creek — November
Sections beginning to ice. Roads closing. Limited late-season opportunities.
San Juan River — November
Midges dominant (size 22-26). BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawn — streamer fishing peak. Cold but fishable thanks to Navajo Dam releases.
Rio Grande — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Cold mornings, occasional snow in the gorge.
Rio Chama — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater stays open while upper river ices.
Cimarron River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Canyon beginning to ice in shaded sections. Limited late-season fishing.
Pecos River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Upper sections freezing. Lower river near Pecos village still fishable on warm days.
Brazos River — November
Access road closing with first heavy snow. Limited late-season opportunities. Most years done by mid-November.
Red River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Limited late-season fishing in lower stretches near Questa.
Jemez River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Upper sections beginning to ice. Lower river near Jemez Springs still fishable on warm days.
Gila River — November
BWOs continuing on overcast days (size 18-22). Midges picking up. Streamers for pre-spawn browns. Fall window before high-country freezes — but the canyon stays fishable into winter.
Henry's Fork — November
Midges dominant (size 20-24). BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Box Canyon and spring-fed sections stay open through freezing temps.
South Fork Snake River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawn — streamer fishing peaks. RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater stays open while surrounding freestones freeze.
Silver Creek — November
BWOs continue early month (size 20-22). Midges. Last fishable month before the seasonal closure. Cold mornings, fewer anglers — late-season Silver Creek devotees only.
Big Wood River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to freeze in Ketchum and Hailey. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
South Fork Boise River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater stays open while ID freestones freeze.
Salmon River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Steelhead in lower river prime. Upper sections beginning to ice. Streamer fishing in tailout pools.
Clearwater River — November
Steelhead run continuing strong. BWOs on mild afternoons. Resident trout fishing tapering as water cools. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns in lower sections.
Lochsa River — November
Most stretches closing for winter season. Limited late-season opportunities. Plan ahead — check IDFG regulations for current closure dates.
Teton River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons (size 18-20). Midges. Sections beginning to ice in shaded stretches. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Fall River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
St. Joe River — November
Most stretches closing for winter. Limited late-season opportunities. Plan ahead — check IDFG regulations.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — November
Steelhead run continuing strong. BWOs on mild afternoons. Resident trout fishing tapering. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns in transition water.
Selway River — November
Most stretches closing for winter season. Limited late-season opportunities. Plan ahead — check IDFG regulations for current closure dates.
Boise River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons (size 20-22). Midges dominant. Streamer fishing for spawning browns — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater stays open and productive while area freestones freeze.
Madison River — November
Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Streamer fishing peaks for post-spawn fish. Lower Madison fishable through freeze-up.
Missouri River — November
Midges dominant (size 20-24). BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing peak — brown trout spawn. RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater stays open while Montana freezes around it.
Yellowstone River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawn — streamer fishing peak. RESPECT REDDS. Sections beginning to ice.
Big Hole River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Brown trout spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Bitterroot River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Brown trout spawn — RESPECT REDDS.
Clark Fork River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Streamer fishing for post-spawn fish. Lower river fishable through most of the month.
Blackfoot River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Sections beginning to ice. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Gallatin River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Flathead River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Most stretches beginning to freeze. Late-season fishing very limited.
Smith River — November
Lower river midges and BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Most of the canyon frozen.
Rock Creek — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Stillwater River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Beartooth access closing for winter. Late-season fishing very limited.
Boulder River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Sections beginning to ice. Late-season fishing for the dedicated.
Sun River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Sections beginning to ice.
Ruby River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawn — RESPECT REDDS. Sections beginning to ice.
Rapidan River — November
Midges (size 20-26) and small BWOs (size 22) on warm afternoons. Brookies post-spawn — don't target spawning fish. Cold water — slow, deep presentations.
South River — November
Midges (size 20-26) and BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Streamers for non-spawning fish.
Jackson River — November
Midges (size 20-26) and BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning below the dam — RESPECT REDDS. Streamers for non-spawners.
North Fork Shenandoah River — November
Midges. BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning in some sections — RESPECT REDDS. Stocking active.
Bullpasture River — November
Midges (size 20-26) and BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Sections beginning to ice.
Maury River — November
Midges (size 20-26). BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Gorge becomes treacherous in cold/wet conditions.
Rose River — November
Midges (size 22-26) and small BWOs. Brookies post-spawn, recovering — fish gently if at all. Cold water, slow fishing.
Conway River — November
Midges and small BWOs on milder days. Post-spawn brookies — fish gently. Cold water, limited activity.
Passage Creek — November
Midges (size 20-26) and BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold limestone flows.
Davidson River — November
Midges (size 20-26) and BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. DH catch-and-release zones strict.
Watauga River — November
Midges and BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Sections beginning to freeze in the highest reaches.
Nantahala River — November
Midges (size 20-26) and BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater consistency.
New River (North Carolina) — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Smallmouth slowing. Headwater brookies post-spawn — fish gently if at all.
Oconaluftee River — November
Midges and BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold flows from Newfound Gap.
French Broad River — November
Midges (size 20-26) and BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Stocking active in select sections.
Cataloochee Creek — November
Midges and BWOs on mild afternoons. Post-spawn brookies recovering — fish gently. Cold water, limited activity.
Linville River — November
Midges (size 20-26). BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Gorge becomes treacherous in wet/cold conditions.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — November
Midges (size 20-26) and BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning below the dam — RESPECT REDDS.
Little River — November
Midges and BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Sections beginning to ice in the highest reaches.
Tellico River — November
Midges and BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Sections beginning to ice in higher reaches.
Cranberry River — November
Midges and BWOs on mild afternoons. Post-spawn brookies recovering — fish gently. Cold water, slow fishing.
South Branch Potomac River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Smallmouth slowing. Cold limestone water.
Elk River — November
Midges and BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Sections beginning to ice in the highest reaches.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — November
Midges and BWOs on mild afternoons. Post-spawn brookies recovering — fish gently. Cold water, slow fishing at elevation.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold limestone canyon flows.
Williams River — November
Midges and BWOs on mild afternoons. Post-spawn brookies recovering — fish gently. Sections beginning to ice at elevation.
Greenbrier River — November
Midges and BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold limestone flows.
Beaverkill River — November
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS, fish non-spawning water. Streamer fishing for large fish.
Willowemoc Creek — November
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs (size 22) on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS, fish non-spawning water. Streamer fishing for large fish.
East Branch Delaware River — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS, fish non-spawning water. Tailwater stays fishable through late fall.
West Branch Delaware River — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS, fish non-spawning water. Tailwater fishable through late fall — one of the last Northeast rivers in form.
Esopus Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold freestone slowing for winter.
Schoharie Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing for winter.
Neversink River — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
Rondout Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Small tributary slowing for winter.
Ausable River (East Branch) — November
Midges (size 22-26). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold High Peaks water locking up.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Lake-run fish tail end.
Saranac River — November
Midges. BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Lake-run fish tail end.
Raquette River — November
Midges. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Upper Adirondack water locking up.
Black River (upper) — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold foothills water slowing.
Penns Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Limestone flows steady through late fall.
Spring Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Limestone flows stable through late fall.
Big Fishing Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Limestone flows steady.
Little Juniata River — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Limestone-influenced flows steady.
Yellow Breeches Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Limestone flows stable through late fall.
Tulpehocken Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater stays fishable through late fall.
Brodhead Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold Pocono water slowing.
Bushkill Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Small water slowing for winter.
Loyalsock Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold remote freestone slowing.
Pine Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold canyon water slowing.
Kettle Creek — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold Potter County water slowing.
Young Womans Creek — November
Cold backcountry water locking up — done for the season. Plan for April opener.
Battenkill River — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS, fish non-spawning water. Cold gin-clear flows continuing.
White River — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold VT water slowing.
Mad River — November
Midges. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold ski-country water locking up.
Lamoille River — November
Lake-run fish tail end. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Midges and BWOs.
Winooski River — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold flows continuing.
Dog River — November
Midges. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Tight wooded corridor slowing for winter.
Black River — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold southern VT water slowing.
West River — November
Midges and BWOs (size 22). Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater stays fishable through late fall.
Williams River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Small water slowing.
Missisquoi River — November
Midges. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Far-northern VT water locking up.
West Branch Penobscot — November
Midges and BWOs. Salmon spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Releases winding down for winter. Cold tailwater fishable on warmer days.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — November
Midges and BWOs. Salmon spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater fishable on warmer days.
Kennebec River – The Forks — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold quiet water.
Dead River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
Sandy River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
Carrabassett River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
Magalloway River — November
Midges and BWOs. Salmon spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater fishable on warmer days.
Narraguagus River — November
BWOs and midges. Brookie spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Sea-run regulations may close water.
Rapid River — November
Cold and quiet. Brookie spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Heading into ice-up.
Roach River — November
Midges and BWOs. Spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Heading into ice-up.
Kennebago River — November
Midges and BWOs. Spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Heading into ice-up.
Ellis River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
Swift River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
Saco River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
Androscoggin River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Big water slowing.
Pemigewasset River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
Wild River — November
Cold wilderness water locking up. Brookie spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Ammonoosuc River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — November
Midges and BWOs. Spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater fishable through late fall.
Smith River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
Cold River — November
Cold water slowing. Brookie spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Deerfield River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS. Tailwater fishable on warmer days.
Swift River — November
BWOs and MIDGES. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS. Cold consistent tailwater fishes well.
Westfield River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
West Branch Westfield River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
East Branch Westfield River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Millers River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Squannacook River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Nissitissit River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Cold River — November
Cold water slowing. Brookie spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Farmington River (MA Section) — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Ware River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Farmington River — November
BWOs and MIDGES. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS. Cold tailwater fishes well.
Housatonic River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Salmon River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Willimantic River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Natchaug River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Shepaug River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Mad River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Bantam River — November
Midges and BWOs. Browns spawning in lake tributaries.
Blackledge River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Jeremy River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Still River — November
Cold water slowing. Brookie spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Gunpowder Falls — November
BWOs and MIDGES. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS. Cold consistent tailwater.
Little Gunpowder Falls — November
Midges and BWOs. Holdover browns spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Big Hunting Creek — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS. Cold water slowing.
Savage River — November
BWOs and MIDGES. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
North Branch Potomac River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Youghiogheny River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Casselman River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Antietam Creek — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Catoctin Creek — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Patuxent River — November
Midges and BWOs. Browns spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Monocacy River — November
BWOs and Midges. Limited holdover survives.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Musconetcong River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Big Flat Brook — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Pequest River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Paulinskill River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Rockaway River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Ramapo River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Wanaque River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Black River (Lamington River) — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Pequannock River — November
Midges and BWOs. Brown trout spawning continues — RESPECT REDDS.
Deschutes River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges picking up. October Caddis tapering. Steelhead in lower river. Cold but uncrowded — quality redside fishing.
McKenzie River — November
BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges. October Caddis tapering. Cooler water, less pressure.
Metolius River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges dominant. October Caddis tapering. Spring creek fishes year-round.
North Umpqua River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Late steelhead. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Rogue River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Winter steelhead beginning. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Williamson River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges dominant. Brown spawning continuing — RESPECT REDDS. Spring-fed flows stable.
Crooked River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges dominant. Tailwater stable through winter cooling.
Fall River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS. Spring-fed flows constant.
Sandy River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Winter steelhead beginning. Coho continuing. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Clackamas River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Winter steelhead beginning. Coho. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Grande Ronde River — November
STEELHEAD in lower river. BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Wallowa River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Late steelhead. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
John Day River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Late steelhead. Cold desert nights.
Sprague River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Brown spawning continuing — RESPECT REDDS.
Wood River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Hosmer Lake — November
Lake icing over. Limited late-fall window before freeze.
Yakima River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges picking up. October Caddis tapering. Cooler water, productive afternoons.
Wenatchee River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Late steelhead. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Methow River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Steelhead — release all. Cold canyon nights.
Skagit River — November
WINTER STEELHEAD beginning to build. BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Bull trout pre-spawn — RESPECT.
Skykomish River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. WINTER STEELHEAD beginning. Sea-run cutthroat continuing. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Stillaguamish River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. WINTER STEELHEAD beginning to build. Sea-run cutthroat. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Sauk River — November
WINTER STEELHEAD building. BWOs on cloudy days. Bull trout SPAWNING — RESPECT and avoid spawning beds.
Hoh River — November
CRANE FLIES (size 10-14) at peak — wet rainforest season. WINTER STEELHEAD beginning to build. BWOs.
Bogachiel River — November
CRANE FLIES at peak. WINTER STEELHEAD beginning to build. BWOs. Heavy rain season.
Queets River — November
CRANE FLIES at peak. WINTER STEELHEAD beginning. BWOs. Heavy rain.
Sol Duc River — November
CRANE FLIES at peak. WINTER STEELHEAD beginning. BWOs. Heavy rain season.
Snoqualmie River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. WINTER STEELHEAD beginning. Sea-run cutthroat. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Spokane River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. October Caddis tapering. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Little Spokane River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Brown trout SPAWNING — RESPECT REDDS.
Naches River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. October Caddis tapering. Cold canyon nights.
Tucannon River — November
BWOs on cloudy days. Midges. Steelhead season often closed for protection.
Hat Creek — November
BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges dominant. Spring-creek consistency holds late into fall.
Fall River — November
BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges dominant. Spring-fed flows hold steady through cold weather.
Pit River — November
BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges picking up. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
McCloud River — November
BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS in lower sections.
Upper Sacramento River — November
BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges. Streamer fishing for pre-spawn browns.
Trinity River — November
FALL STEELHEAD at peak. BWOs on cloudy days. Mahogany Duns. The Trinity's best steelhead window.
Klamath River — November
FALL STEELHEAD at peak in the lower river. BWOs on cloudy days. Salmon spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Feather River Low Flow Channel — November
BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges picking up. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Truckee River — November
BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges. Brown trout spawning continues — focus on rainbow water.
Little Truckee River — November
BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges. Brown trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS.
East Walker River — November
Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges dominant.
West Walker River — November
BWOs on milder afternoons. Midges. Cold high-Sierra stream slowing for winter.
Lee Vining Creek — November
High Sierra winter beginning. Limited access. Most reaches inaccessible.
Owens River — November
BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges. Brown trout spawning continues — focus on rainbow water.
Hot Creek — November
BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Midges dominant. Year-round geothermal flows hold the fishery.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — November
High Sierra winter beginning. Limited access. Most wilderness reaches inaccessible.
Kings River — November
High Sierra winter beginning. Most access closed. Wilderness sections inaccessible.
Kern River — November
Lower Kernville stretch fishes on milder days. Backcountry inaccessible. BWOs and midges.
Russian River — November
WINTER STEELHEAD beginning to enter the river — first fish of the season. Watch flows carefully.
Au Sable River — November
Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Trout season closes September 30 in most Au Sable sections; year-round Type 1/Type 2 sections may stay open. Verify regs.
Au Sable North Branch — November
Closed to trout fishing. Brown trout spawning.
Au Sable South Branch — November
Closed to trout fishing. Brown trout spawning.
Pere Marquette River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues. Cold water, slowing fish. Trout sections closed; designated steelhead water year-round.
Manistee River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues below Tippy. Salmon spawn winding down. Trout sections closed; tailwater steelhead year-round.
Muskegon River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues. Salmon spawn winding down. Trout fishing in cool tailwater flows.
Jordan River — November
Closed to trout fishing. Spawning season.
Boardman River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues. Trout sections closing. Verify current MDNR rules for post-removal sections.
Betsie River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues. Trout sections closed; year-round designated steelhead water remains open.
Pine River — November
Closed to trout fishing. Spawning season.
Pigeon River — November
Closed to trout fishing. Brook trout spawning.
Sturgeon River — November
Trout sections closed. STEELHEAD on lower river.
Black River — November
Closed to trout fishing. Spawning season.
Two-Hearted River — November
Closed to trout fishing. UP winter.
Fox River — November
Closed to trout fishing. UP winter.
Timber Coulee Creek — November
Closed to most trout fishing — brown trout spawning. Verify catch-and-release sections that remain open in WDNR rules.
West Fork Kickapoo River — November
Closed — brown trout spawning. Verify open C&R sections in WDNR rules.
Kickapoo River — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
Black Earth Creek — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
Mt. Vernon Creek — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
Elk Creek — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
Blue River — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
Seas Branch — November
Closed — spawning season.
Tomorrow River — November
Closed — spawning season.
Wolf River — November
Closed — spawning season.
Bois Brule River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues on open sections. Most trout sections closing. Verify all section-by-section closures.
Namekagon River — November
Closed — spawning season.
White River — November
Closed — spawning season.
Prairie River — November
Closed — spawning season.
Oconto River — November
Trout sections closed. STEELHEAD on lower river continues.
Root River — November
Closed to most trout fishing — brown trout spawning. Verify any open sections in MN DNR rules.
South Branch Root River — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
North Branch Root River — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
Whitewater River — November
Closed outside park — brown trout spawning. Inside park: year-round C&R but RESPECT REDDS.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
North Fork Whitewater River — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
Trout Run Creek — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
Rush Creek — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
Straight River — November
Closed — brown trout spawning.
Knife River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues on open lower-river sections. Trout sections closed. PINK SALMON in odd years (next: 2027).
Baptism River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues. Trout sections closed. PINK SALMON in odd years (next: 2027).
Cascade River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues. Trout sections closed. PINK SALMON in odd years (next: 2027).
Temperance River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues. Trout sections closed. PINK SALMON in odd years (next: 2027).
Brule River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues. Trout sections closed. PINK SALMON in odd years (next: 2027).
Poplar River — November
FALL STEELHEAD continues. Trout sections closed. PINK SALMON in odd years (next: 2027).
Upper Iowa River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamers for pre-spawn browns. Brown trout spawning beginning — RESPECT REDDS.
Yellow River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamers. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Volga River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Turkey River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamers. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Bloody Run Creek — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Paint Creek — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Bear Creek — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
North Fork Maquoketa River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Waterloo Creek — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
French Creek — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Village Creek — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
White River — November
BWOs on overcast afternoons (size 18-22). Midges. Scuds. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Year-round Arkansas season.
North Fork River — November
BWOs on overcast afternoons. Midges. Scuds. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Year-round Arkansas season.
Little Red River — November
BWOs on overcast afternoons. Midges. Scuds. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Year-round Arkansas season.
Spring River — November
BWOs on overcast afternoons. Midges. Scuds. Year-round Arkansas season; constant spring water keeps fishing through winter.
Crooked Creek — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Midges. Stocked rainbows. Year-round Arkansas season.
Chagrin River — November
STEELHEAD fall run at peak. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, streamers, nymphs. BWOs on mild afternoons.
Grand River — November
STEELHEAD fall run at peak. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, streamers, nymphs. BWOs on mild afternoons.
Rocky River — November
STEELHEAD fall run at peak. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, streamers, nymphs.
Vermilion River — November
STEELHEAD fall run at peak. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, streamers, nymphs.
Conneaut Creek — November
STEELHEAD fall run at peak. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, streamers, nymphs.
Cuyahoga River — November
STEELHEAD fall run at peak. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, streamers, nymphs.
Ashtabula River — November
STEELHEAD fall run at peak. Egg patterns, sucker spawn, streamers, nymphs.
Mad River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS in spawning gravel.
Big Darby Creek — November
Cold-season smallmouth — slow, deep presentations. Streamers.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Midges. Holdover trout active.
Current River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS in spawning gravel. Streamers for big pre-spawn fish.
Jacks Fork River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS in spawning gravel.
Eleven Point River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Wild brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
North Fork of White River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Wild brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS in spawning gravel.
Huzzah Creek — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Midges.
Gasconade River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Midges. Cooler water.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — November
BWOs on mild afternoons (size 20-22). Midges picking up. Year-round season — public USFS access keeps producing fish through fall.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. DH section (GA Hwy 28 to Reed Creek) NOW OPEN — single-hook artificial only, C&R, through May 14. Wild brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Midges. Wild brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. ARTIFICIAL LURES ONLY upstream of GA-TN line begins Nov 1 — runs through last Saturday of March. Wild brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS. Night fishing prohibited.
Soque River — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. Midges. Wild brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — November
BWOs on mild afternoons. DH section near Shallowford Bridge NOW OPEN through May 14 — single-hook artificial only, C&R. Wild brown trout spawning — RESPECT REDDS.
Kenai River — November
Rainbow season closes April 30 (continues through winter on accessible water). Late steelhead (small run). Cold water, small windows, dedicated anglers. Gauge may begin going offline as ice forms.
Russian River — November
Late-season Dollies. Cold and clear. River may begin freezing on edges. Last fishable window.
Anchor River — November
Late steelhead. Cold weather concentrates fish in deep pools. Fewer anglers, prime conditions for solitude.
Gulkana River — November
Off-season approaching. River begins freezing.
Situk River — November
FALL/WINTER STEELHEAD RUN BEGINS. Different fish, different season — cold-weather wadeable steelhead in clear water. Run continues through winter.
Naknek River — November
Late season. Most lodges have closed. Cool clear water, large fish, demanding logistics.
Spearfish Creek — November
Midges, BWO; Streamers for spawning browns
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — November
Midges, Streamers for browns
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — November
Midges, Streamers
Spring Creek — November
Midges, Streamers
Whitewood Creek — November
Midges, Streamers
Castle Creek — November
Midges, Streamers
Cumberland River Tailwater — November
Midges, BWO. Streamer fishing for trophy browns on the move. Respect spawning fish on redds.
Hatchery Creek — November
Midges, Scuds, Sowbugs. C&R section fishes well with light traffic.
Green River Tailwater — November
Midges, BWO. Stocked fish from October still around; subsurface most reliable.
Barren River Tailwater — November
Midges, Nymphs. Stocked fish from October still active.
Rockcastle River — November
Midges, small Nymphs. Wooly Buggers for bass in deeper holding water.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — November
BWO, Midges. Fall fishing strong; opening crowds thin out by mid-month.
Rock Creek — November
Midges, BWO. Streamers for trophy browns. C&R section fishing well.
Truckee River — November
Midges, BWO; Streamers; cutthroat begin staging for winter run
East Walker River — November
Midges, Streamers; spawning browns
West Walker River — November
Midges, Streamers
East Fork Carson River — November
Midges, Streamers
Lamoille Creek — November
Midges, small Streamers; access may close late month
South Fork Humboldt River — November
Midges, Streamers
Guadalupe River — November
Midges return; trout stocking begins Nov; both trout and bass patterns
Llano River — November
Small Streamers, Wooly Buggers; bass slowing down
Blanco River — November
Small Streamers; Wooly Buggers; carp in deeper pools
Pedernales River — November
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; fish slow as temps drop
Frio River — November
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; quiet and peaceful
South Llano River — November
Streamers; Wooly Buggers
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — November
BWO; Midges; Streamers; San Juan Worms; classic fall tailwater
Cahaba River — November
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; Clouser Minnows; bass slowing
Little River Canyon — November
BWO; Streamers; Wooly Buggers; canyon water cools
Tallapoosa River — November
Midges; Streamers; Wooly Buggers; trout fishing improving
Paint Rock River — November
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; bass slowing
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — November
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; Clouser Minnows; bass slowing
Blue River — November
BWO; Midges; small Streamers; fall stocking restart; San Juan Worms
Mountain Fork River — November
BWO; Midges; Streamers; brown trout pre-spawn — handle carefully
Illinois River — November
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; Clouser Minnows; bass slowing as water cools
Baron Fork — November
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; Clouser Minnows; bass slowing
Glover River — November
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; Clouser Minnows; bass slowing
Kiamichi River — November
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; bass slowing; catfish still in deep holes
December Hatch Calendar — US Fly Fishing
South Platte River — December
Midges (size 22-26) are primary. Occasional BWO on mild days. Streamers for large fish in deep runs. Cold and clear.
Arkansas River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on mild days. Streamers. Fish slow-moving deep runs.
Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Consistent tailwater flows. Pueblo's lower elevation (4,700 ft) means warmer air temps than mountain rivers. Year-round tailwater at its most accessible.
Blue River — December
Midges (size 22-26) year-round dominant. Mysis imitations essential — size 16-20 white/cream, fished on a long leader. Flows remain consistent through winter. Cold but reliably fishable.
Bear Creek — December
Midges (size 22-24) primary. Low flows typical — below 15 CFS is tough. Fish deep pools and slow runs with nymph rigs.
Colorado River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Streamers for large fish in deep runs. Cold and remote. Dress for mountain winter conditions.
Frying Pan River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Consistent tailwater flows year-round. Large fish active in cold water. Cold canyon conditions — dress warmly and watch for ice in rod guides.
Roaring Fork River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Streamers in deep runs. Lower section near Glenwood most accessible in winter. Cold canyon — Basalt section fishable with proper preparation.
Cache la Poudre River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Fish accessible lower canyon sections. Cold conditions — Poudre Canyon Hwy can be icy. Check CDOT road conditions before driving.
Taylor River — December
Midges (size 22-28) year-round. Tailwater maintains fishable temps and flows through December. Cold mountain valley — dress for it. World-class winter tailwater fishing.
Gunnison River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Streamers in deep runs. Cold and remote — this is for dedicated anglers. Gorge trail access can be treacherous with snow and ice.
Eagle River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold I-70 corridor conditions. Fish deep pools in Gypsum section. Light pressure December through February — the Eagle to yourself.
Yampa River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Cold Northwest Colorado conditions — temperatures can drop sharply. Fish deep runs near Steamboat Springs. Dress for Routt County winter.
Rio Grande — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Cold San Luis Valley conditions — frigid nights common. The long drive from Denver requires a commitment. Check flows and weather before going.
Crystal River — December
Midges (size 22-24) primary. Small stream, cold conditions. Fish accessible lower sections near Carbondale only. Road access above Redstone becomes limited with winter snowfall.
Dolores River — December
Midges (size 20-24) year-round below McPhee. Consistent tailwater flows through December. Southwest Colorado location means more fishable winter days than higher-elevation rivers.
North Platte River — December
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible. North Park in winter is extreme — temperatures well below zero. Limited winter access near Walden only. This river rewards the dedicated and well-prepared.
Slate River — December
Midges (size 22-24) primary when accessible. Crested Butte ski season means snow on Slate River Road. Very limited access December through February. Fish the town stretch only.
San Juan River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Pagosa Springs mild winters mean the San Juan stays fishable when northern rivers freeze. Riverwalk access year-round.
Animas River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Gold Medal section accessible year-round through Durango. Mild Southwest Colorado winter makes December fishing viable when northern rivers are frozen.
East River — December
Midges (size 22-24) primary when accessible. Crested Butte in full ski season — limited fishing access except near Almont. East River essentially closed for the winter season.
Fraser River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Grand County deep winter. Moffat Tunnel diversion at peak winter operation. Cold and remote — limited December access. The Fraser is a summer and fall river.
Dream Stream — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. South Park in December is serious mountain cold — temperatures well below zero overnight. Fish the warmest part of the afternoon. Big browns active. You'll have it to yourself.
Gore Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold mountain valley. Paved rec path cleared for ski season gives year-round access. Fish accessible urban section through Vail village.
Cheesman Canyon — December
Midges (size 22-26) when accessible. Gill Trail may have snow and ice — microspikes recommended. Winter Cheesman Canyon requires careful planning and full cold-weather gear. Worth it for the solitude.
Williams Fork River — December
Midges (size 22-26) year-round below reservoir. Consistent flows through December. Williams Fork in winter: solitude guaranteed, quality fish, and a reminder that the best Colorado tailwaters aren't always the famous ones.
Colorado River — Gold Medal — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Streamers in deep holes and eddies. Cold canyon conditions. Some of the best winter streamer fishing in Grand County — BLM land keeps this accessible year-round.
Conejos River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold San Luis Valley winters — dress accordingly. Conejos River accessible near Mogote in December for the most dedicated. Wild cutthroat worth protecting year-round.
San Miguel River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Upper Telluride sections closed by winter. Lower canyon near Naturita accessible but cold. San Miguel in December for the committed — remote, cold, beautiful, empty.
Lake Fork of the Gunnison — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold remote conditions. Lake Fork accessible near Gateview only in December. Trophy browns resting post-spawn — handle carefully. The most remote December fishing in Colorado.
North Platte River — Grey Reef — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary year-round. Streamers for large browns post-spawn. Cold but reliably fishable thanks to Grey Reef Reservoir releases.
North Platte River — Miracle Mile — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Tailwater fishable but harsh winter conditions. For dedicated anglers only.
Snake River — December
Limited winter fishing. Lower river access possible on mild days with midges. Most of the river ices over by late December. Plan for spring.
Green River — Fontenelle — December
Midges (size 20-24) year-round. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Reliably fishable thanks to Fontenelle Reservoir releases.
Shoshone River — December
Midges (size 22-24) primary. Lower river near Cody most accessible. Most of the Shoshone freezes by late December. Fish on warmer afternoons.
Bighorn River — December
Midges (size 20-24) year-round. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Reliably fishable thanks to Bighorn Lake releases. Cold but productive.
Laramie River — December
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer days. Most of the Laramie ices over. Limited winter fishing — wait for spring.
New Fork River — December
Limited winter fishing. Most sections frozen. Plan for spring opener.
Hoback River — December
Most of the Hoback frozen. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June after runoff.
Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone — December
Most upper sections frozen or snow-blocked. Midges (size 22-24) in lower canyon pools on mild days. Plan for late spring after runoff.
Salt River — December
Most of the Salt frozen through Star Valley. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late spring after runoff.
Green River — December
Midges (size 18-22) primary. Scuds and sowbugs always. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Reliably fishable thanks to Bureau of Reclamation releases. Cold but productive — quiet winter Green is a different river.
Provo River (Middle) — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Reliably fishable thanks to Jordanelle releases. Cold but accessible — Middle Provo never really stops fishing.
Weber River — December
Midges (size 22-24) primary in tailwater section below Echo. Most of the lower canyon iced. Streamers for post-spawn browns where accessible. Plan for late April Mother's Day Caddis.
Ogden River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Reliably fishable in the canyon thanks to Pineview releases. Cold but accessible from the Ogden Canyon highway.
Strawberry River — December
Most of the WMA reach iced. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June after runoff settles. Tie Green Drakes, stones, and big hoppers for the summer season.
Logan River — December
Most of Logan Canyon frozen. Limited winter fishing in the lower river near Logan. Plan for late June after runoff. Blacksmith Fork tributary similar timing.
Bear River — December
Most of the Bear iced or partial-ice. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June after runoff. Bear Lake itself a separate trophy fishery (do not conflate with river fishing).
Beaver River — December
Most of the Beaver iced. Plan for July through October prime window. Tie hoppers, Stimulators, and PMD patterns for the summer season.
Fremont River — December
Most of the Fremont frozen at elevation. Plan for May through October prime window. Capitol Reef Country fishing requires patience — small remote stream with big rewards.
East Fork Sevier River — December
Most of Kingston Canyon iced. Plan for May through October prime window. The East Fork Sevier is the celebrated trout reach in the Sevier drainage — Blue Ribbon for a reason.
Oak Creek — December
Midges (size 20-24) dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Stocked rainbows feed actively in deep pools. Quiet, cold canyon fishing — one of AZ's reliable winter waters.
West Fork Oak Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on mild afternoons. Spring-fed flow keeps West Fork fishable through winter — selective fish, technical presentations, gorgeous setting.
East Fork Black River — December
Closed conditions — heavy snow. Plan for late June after roads open and runoff settles. Tie Apache Trout dries for the summer season.
West Fork Black River — December
Closed conditions. Plan for late June after roads dry and runoff settles. Tie Apache Trout flies for the summer season.
North Fork White River — December
Most of the river iced or closed. Plan for late spring after runoff. Tie hoppers and PMDs for summer.
Canyon Creek — December
Limited winter fishing. Plan for late spring through October prime window. Canyon Creek requires planning — rough access roads, but the wild brown trout fishery is among AZ's best.
Tonto Creek — December
Midges (size 20-24) dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Stocked rainbows feed actively in deep pools. Reliable winter water — Mogollon Rim canyon doesn't freeze over.
Silver Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on mild afternoons. Spring-fed flow keeps Silver Creek fishable through winter when other AZ streams freeze. C&R season — selective fish, careful technique.
East Clear Creek — December
Closed conditions. Plan for June through October prime window. East Clear Creek requires backcountry skills — but holds AZ's best small-water wild trout in a true wilderness setting.
Little Colorado River — December
Most of the upper LCR iced or snow-affected. Limited winter fishing. Plan for July through October prime window.
Chevelon Creek — December
Closed conditions. Plan for June through October prime window. Chevelon Creek requires self-sufficiency, backcountry skills, and verification of current flows before driving the rough roads in.
San Juan River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary year-round. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Reliably fishable — one of the West's premier winter tailwaters.
Rio Grande — December
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer afternoons in lower canyon. Most upper sections freeze. Limited but possible — fish the lower river near Embudo.
Rio Chama — December
Midges (size 22-24) primary year-round below El Vado. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Reliably fishable thanks to dam releases.
Cimarron River — December
Most of Cimarron Canyon frozen. Very limited winter fishing. Plan for spring opener.
Pecos River — December
Most of the upper Pecos frozen. Limited fishing in lower sections. Plan for late spring after runoff.
Brazos River — December
Closed conditions. Box canyon inaccessible. Plan for July after the road reopens.
Red River — December
Most of the Red River frozen. Very limited winter fishing. Plan for spring opener.
Jemez River — December
Midges (size 22-24) on warmer afternoons. Most upper sections freeze. Lower river near Jemez Springs and the geothermal influence stays open.
Gila River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs on mild afternoons (size 20-22). Year-round canyon fishery — low elevation keeps water open while northern NM rivers freeze. Quiet, lightly pressured fishing.
Henry's Fork — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Spring-fed Box Canyon and Last Chance sections fishable year-round. Streamers for post-spawn browns. The quiet Henry's Fork few anglers know.
South Fork Snake River — December
Midges (size 20-24) year-round. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Reliably fishable thanks to Palisades Reservoir releases. Cold but productive for the dedicated angler.
Silver Creek — December
CLOSED December 1 through Memorial Day weekend. Tie flies, plan your spring opener trip.
Big Wood River — December
Most of the Big Wood frozen. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June after runoff.
South Fork Boise River — December
Midges (size 20-24) year-round. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Reliably fishable thanks to Anderson Ranch releases. Cold but productive.
Salmon River — December
Steelhead in lower river (where seasons allow). Most upper sections frozen. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late spring after runoff.
Clearwater River — December
B-RUN STEELHEAD season — winter steelhead at peak. Single-spey and skagit setups for trophy fish. Resident trout limited. Focus on steelhead.
Lochsa River — December
CLOSED through winter season. Plan for late June after runoff. Tie up some Stimulators and Chubby Chernobyls for the summer hopper season.
Teton River — December
Most of the Teton frozen. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June after runoff.
Fall River — December
Most of Fall River frozen. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June after runoff.
St. Joe River — December
CLOSED through winter season. Plan for late June after runoff. Tie hoppers and Chubby Chernobyls for the summer season.
Middle Fork Clearwater River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD season — B-run fish at peak in open sections. Resident trout limited. Focus on steelhead. Check current IDFG regulations.
Selway River — December
CLOSED through winter season. Plan for late June after runoff. Tie up Stimulators, Chubby Chernobyls, and big Salmonfly patterns for the summer season.
Boise River — December
Midges (size 20-24) year-round. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Reliably fishable thanks to Lucky Peak releases. Cold but accessible — hidden fishery in plain sight along the Greenbelt.
Madison River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Streamers for trophy browns. Lower Madison stays open through most of December. Cold but reliably fishable for the dedicated.
Missouri River — December
Midges (size 20-24) year-round. Streamers for post-spawn browns. Reliably fishable thanks to Holter Dam releases. Cold but productive — one of the West's premier winter tailwaters.
Yellowstone River — December
Limited winter fishing. Most of the Yellowstone freezes through Paradise Valley by late December. Plan for late spring after runoff.
Big Hole River — December
Most of the Big Hole frozen. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June–early July after runoff for the legendary Salmonfly window.
Bitterroot River — December
Most of the Bitterroot frozen. Limited winter fishing. Plan for the March Skwala hatch — the Bitterroot's signature event.
Clark Fork River — December
Midges (size 20-24) on warmer days below Missoula. Streamers for trophy browns in deep runs. Cold but productive for the dedicated angler.
Blackfoot River — December
Most of the Blackfoot frozen. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June–early July after runoff for the legendary Salmonfly hatch.
Gallatin River — December
Most of the Gallatin frozen through the canyon. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June after runoff.
Flathead River — December
Most of the Flathead system frozen. Plan for late June after runoff for the prime summer season.
Smith River — December
Lower river midges only. Canyon closed and frozen. Apply for next year's permit lottery by February.
Rock Creek — December
Most of Rock Creek frozen. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June–early July for the legendary Salmonfly hatch.
Stillwater River — December
Most of the Stillwater frozen. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June after runoff.
Boulder River — December
Most of the Boulder frozen. Limited winter fishing. Plan for late June after runoff.
Sun River — December
Most of the Sun River frozen east of Augusta. Limited winter fishing below the dam. Plan for spring through fall.
Ruby River — December
Most of the Ruby frozen. Limited winter fishing below the reservoir. Plan for spring through fall — and know the bridge-access rules before you go.
Rapidan River — December
Midges dominate (size 20-26). Occasional BWO on mild days. Wild brookies tucked into deep pools — small flies, long leaders, patience.
South River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Small BWOs on warmer cloudy days. Standard winter tailwater tactics — small flies, long leaders, slow presentations.
Jackson River — December
Midges (size 20-26) dominate. BWOs on cloudy mild days. Cold reliable tailwater flows — small flies, long leaders, slow water.
North Fork Shenandoah River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. BWOs on warmer days. Limited winter fishing — stick to stocked sections with slower water.
Bullpasture River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Limited winter fishing — fish deep pools with slow nymph rigs. Plan for spring through fall.
Maury River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Cold water — limited winter fishing in the gorge. Slow deep presentations in pools.
Rose River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter fishing in the SNP backcountry — most anglers wait for spring. Catch-and-release only year-round.
Conway River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Most anglers wait for spring. Backcountry access difficult — plan for warmer months.
Passage Creek — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Limited winter fishing — fish deep limestone pools with slow nymph rigs.
Davidson River — December
Midges (size 20-26) dominate. BWOs on cloudy mild days. DH water fishing well — selective fish, technical small-fly presentations.
Watauga River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Cold high-elevation water — limited winter fishing. Plan for spring through fall.
Nantahala River — December
Midges (size 20-26) dominant. BWOs on cloudy mild days. Cold reliable tailwater — small flies, long leaders, slow water tactics.
New River (North Carolina) — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Limited winter fishing — Wild & Scenic headwaters cold. Plan for spring through fall.
Oconaluftee River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Cold water — limited winter fishing. GSMNP regulations: artificial only, single hook, brookies all released.
French Broad River — December
Midges (size 20-26) dominate. BWOs on cloudy mild days. Cold upper French Broad — selective fish, technical small-fly presentations.
Cataloochee Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26). Most anglers wait for spring. Long backcountry drive — plan for warmer months.
Linville River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Cold water — limited winter fishing in the wilderness. Slow deep presentations in pools for the dedicated.
Watauga River (Tennessee) — December
Midges (size 20-26) dominate. BWOs on mild cloudy days. Cold reliable tailwater — TVA releases drive flows, check schedule daily.
Little River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Cold water — limited winter fishing. GSMNP regulations: artificial only, single hook, brookies all released.
Tellico River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. Cold Cherokee NF water — limited winter fishing. Plan for spring through fall.
Cranberry River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter fishing in backcountry — most anglers wait for spring. Plan for April opener.
South Branch Potomac River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. BWOs on warmer cloudy days. Cold limestone — slow deep presentations in canyon pools.
Elk River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Limited winter fishing in Central Appalachian valleys. Plan for spring through fall.
Shavers Fork of the Cheat River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter fishing — most anglers wait for spring. Plan for opener and summer high country.
North Fork of the South Branch Potomac — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. BWOs on warmer cloudy days. Cold limestone — slow deep presentations in canyon pools.
Williams River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter fishing in remote backcountry — most anglers wait for spring. Plan for April opener.
Greenbrier River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. BWOs on warmer cloudy days. Cold limestone — slow deep presentations. Plan for spring through fall.
Beaverkill River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Nymphing with stonefly patterns in deep pools. Cold and quiet — Roscoe shops shut down for the season.
Willowemoc Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Nymphing with stonefly patterns in deep pools. Cold and quiet around Trout Town USA.
East Branch Delaware River — December
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Tailwater fertility keeps trophy browns active. Cold but reliably fishable.
West Branch Delaware River — December
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Tailwater stays clear and cold — trophy browns active in deep runs all winter.
Esopus Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity in freestone — plan for spring through fall.
Schoharie Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter fishing — plan for spring.
Neversink River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Cold and quiet on the historic Neversink. Plan for spring.
Rondout Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity — plan for spring through fall.
Ausable River (East Branch) — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity in Adirondack High Peaks — plan for spring through fall.
Ausable River (Main Stem) — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity. Plan for spring lake-run window and summer dry-fly season.
Saranac River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity — plan for spring through fall.
Raquette River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity — plan for spring through fall.
Black River (upper) — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity in Adirondack foothills — plan for spring through fall.
Penns Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs on cloudy mild days. Limestone temperature stability keeps Penns fishable when Catskills freestones are locked up.
Spring Creek — December
BWOs (size 22) and midges (size 22-26) year-round. Limestone temperature stability — one of the few rivers actively fishable in Pennsylvania winter.
Big Fishing Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs on cloudy mild days. Limestone temperature stability extends fishability into winter.
Little Juniata River — December
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs on cloudy mild days. Wild browns active in deep runs all winter on this premier PA river.
Yellow Breeches Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) year-round. BWOs on cloudy mild days. Limestone temperature stability — a south-central PA winter option.
Tulpehocken Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on cloudy days. Cold dam-controlled flows — the Tully fishes when nothing else does in southeastern PA.
Brodhead Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity in freestone Pocono water — plan for spring through fall.
Bushkill Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity — plan for spring through early summer.
Loyalsock Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity in remote north-central PA — plan for spring through fall.
Pine Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity in PA Grand Canyon country — plan for spring through fall.
Kettle Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity — plan for spring through fall.
Young Womans Creek — December
Locked up. Plan for spring through early summer — this is a short-window stream.
Battenkill River — December
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs on cloudy mild afternoons. Wild browns active in deep runs all winter on this Northeast gold standard.
White River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity in central VT freestone — plan for spring through fall.
Mad River — December
Cold and locked — plan for May through September prime window.
Lamoille River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity — plan for spring through fall, with October being the marquee month.
Winooski River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity — plan for spring through fall, fishing upper sections.
Dog River — December
Locked up. Plan for May through August prime window.
Black River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity — plan for spring through fall.
West River — December
Midges (size 22-26). BWOs cloudy days. Cold tailwater fertility keeps trophy browns active in deep runs.
Williams River — December
Midges (size 22-26). Limited winter activity — plan for April through August.
Missisquoi River — December
Locked up at elevation. Plan for May through September prime window.
West Branch Penobscot — December
Heading into winter. Limited access — plan for spring smelt run.
Kennebec River – East Outlet — December
Heading into ice-up. Limited access — plan for May.
Kennebec River – The Forks — December
Heading into ice-up. Plan for May–October prime window.
Dead River — December
Heading into ice-up. Plan for May through October.
Sandy River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Carrabassett River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for May through October.
Magalloway River — December
Heading into ice-up. Plan for spring smelt run.
Narraguagus River — December
Cold and quiet. Plan for May salter run.
Rapid River — December
Locked up — no access. Plan for May.
Roach River — December
Locked up. Plan for May.
Kennebago River — December
Locked up. Plan for May. Check Rangeley Fly Shop or Grant's Camps for conditions.
Ellis River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Swift River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for June through October.
Saco River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for May through October.
Androscoggin River — December
Heading into ice-up. Plan for May–October prime window.
Pemigewasset River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for May through October.
Wild River — December
Locked up. Plan for May through October.
Ammonoosuc River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for May through October.
Connecticut River (Trophy Stretch) — December
Midges. BWOs cloudy days. Cold tailwater fertility keeps trophy browns active in deep runs.
Smith River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Cold River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for late April through September.
Deerfield River — December
Cold tailwater — Midges and BWOs on warmer days. Holdover fish keyed on small bugs.
Swift River — December
Year-round fishery. MIDGES (size 22-28) and BWOs on warmer days. The ultimate winter MA option.
Westfield River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
West Branch Westfield River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
East Branch Westfield River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Millers River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Squannacook River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Nissitissit River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Cold River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for late April through September.
Farmington River (MA Section) — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Ware River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Farmington River — December
Year-round tailwater. MIDGES (size 22-28) and BWOs on warmer days.
Housatonic River — December
Cold tailwater — Midges and BWOs on warmer days.
Salmon River — December
Cold tailwater — Midges and BWOs on warmer days. C&R season.
Willimantic River — December
Limited winter activity in TMA — plan for April through October.
Natchaug River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Shepaug River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Mad River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Bantam River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April–early May.
Blackledge River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Jeremy River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Still River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Gunpowder Falls — December
Year-round tailwater. MIDGES (size 22-28) primary. BWOs on warmer days.
Little Gunpowder Falls — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Big Hunting Creek — December
Year-round fly-only C&R — MIDGES and BWOs on warmer days.
Savage River — December
Year-round Trophy Trout tailwater — MIDGES and BWOs on warmer days.
North Branch Potomac River — December
Cold tailwater — Midges and BWOs on warmer days.
Youghiogheny River — December
Limited winter activity at elevation — plan for April through October.
Casselman River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Antietam Creek — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Catoctin Creek — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Patuxent River — December
Cold tailwater — Midges and BWOs on warmer days.
Monocacy River — December
Limited winter trout activity — plan for April spring window.
South Branch Raritan River (Ken Lockwood Gorge) — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Musconetcong River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Big Flat Brook — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Pequest River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Paulinskill River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Rockaway River — December
Cold tailwater — Midges and BWOs on warmer days.
Ramapo River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Wanaque River — December
Cold tailwater — Midges and BWOs on warmer days.
Black River (Lamington River) — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Pequannock River — December
Limited winter activity — plan for April through October.
Deschutes River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs on milder afternoons. Steelhead season winding down. Cold weather, fewer anglers, careful wading.
McKenzie River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs on milder days. Drift boats still running between weather systems.
Metolius River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on milder afternoons. Cold but reliable — Metolius never freezes.
North Umpqua River — December
Winter steelhead beginning lower river. Midges and BWOs. Cold canyon — careful wading.
Rogue River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD at peak in middle Rogue. Midges and BWOs for resident trout. Cold canyon water.
Williamson River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on milder days. Cold spring creek — selective fish on long leaders.
Crooked River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs on milder afternoons. Year-round fishery — bring layers.
Fall River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on milder afternoons. Year-round fly-only C&R — selective fish.
Sandy River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD building. Midges and BWOs for resident fish. Cold glacier flows.
Clackamas River — December
Winter steelhead building. Midges and BWOs. Cold but accessible from Portland.
Grande Ronde River — December
Late steelhead. Midges and BWOs. Cold canyon — careful access.
Wallowa River — December
Cold alpine flows — limited winter fishing. Midges and BWOs on milder days.
John Day River — December
Cold canyon water — limited winter fishing. Midges on milder days.
Sprague River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on milder days. Cold meadow flows.
Wood River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on milder days. Spring creek runs year-round.
Hosmer Lake — December
Lake frozen — no fishing. Plan for late May through October.
Yakima River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs on milder days. Cold canyon water — bring layers.
Wenatchee River — December
Cold mountain flows — limited winter fishing. Midges and BWOs on milder days.
Methow River — December
Cold flows — limited winter fishing. Midges on milder days. Steelhead season closures.
Skagit River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD building toward peak. Cold glacial flows. Midges and BWOs for resident fish.
Skykomish River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD building. Cold flows. Midges and BWOs for resident fish.
Stillaguamish River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD building. Cold flows. Midges and BWOs.
Sauk River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD building toward peak. Cold glacial flows. Midges and BWOs for resident fish.
Hoh River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD building. Crane Flies. BWOs. Heavy rain — flow management critical.
Bogachiel River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD building toward peak. Crane Flies. BWOs. Heavy rain.
Queets River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD building. Crane Flies. BWOs. Heavy rainforest rain.
Sol Duc River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD building. Crane Flies. BWOs. Heavy rain.
Snoqualmie River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD building. Cold flows. Midges and BWOs.
Spokane River — December
Midges (size 20-24). BWOs on milder days. Brown trout spawning continuing — RESPECT REDDS.
Little Spokane River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on milder afternoons. Spring creek runs year-round.
Naches River — December
Cold canyon water — limited winter fishing. Midges on milder days.
Tucannon River — December
Cold canyon water — limited winter fishing. Midges on milder days.
Hat Creek — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. BWOs on milder afternoons. Year-round fishery — selective wild fish through winter.
Fall River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on mild days. Year-round spring creek for the dedicated.
Pit River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs on mild days. Cold canyon — for the dedicated only.
McCloud River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Remote canyon — limited winter access. Cold and wild.
Upper Sacramento River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. SKWALA possible very late month. Cold canyon — pre-Skwala scouting.
Trinity River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD continuing. Midges and BWOs for residents. Cold tailwater, focused fish.
Klamath River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD continuing. Midges. Cold weather, fewer anglers. Verify rules — post-dam-removal regulations are in flux.
Feather River Low Flow Channel — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. BWOs on mild days. Channel never freezes — year-round fishery.
Truckee River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Cold mountain water, focused fish.
Little Truckee River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Tailwater stays fishable through winter for the dedicated.
East Walker River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on mild days. Trophy browns through winter for the patient.
West Walker River — December
Cold mountain water — limited winter access. Midges on milder days.
Lee Vining Creek — December
Winter — most reaches inaccessible until next summer.
Owens River — December
Midges (size 20-26) primary. BWOs on mild days. Year-round Eastern Sierra fishery.
Hot Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on milder afternoons. The most technical winter fishery in California.
San Joaquin River (Upper) — December
Winter — most reaches inaccessible until next summer.
Kings River — December
Winter — most reaches inaccessible until next summer.
Kern River — December
Cold canyon water. Limited winter fishing. Wilderness reaches inaccessible.
Russian River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD building — the season is on. Indicator nymphing and swung flies. Best fishing on falling water after rains.
Au Sable River — December
Closed to trout fishing on most sections. Off-season.
Au Sable North Branch — December
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Au Sable South Branch — December
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Pere Marquette River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD holding through cold months. Slow swing presentations and dead-drift nymphing in deep runs.
Manistee River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD below Tippy — slow, cold-water nymphing in deep runs.
Muskegon River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD below Croton — year-round fishery on the regulated tailwater.
Jordan River — December
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Boardman River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD holding through cold months. Slow nymphing on the lower river.
Betsie River — December
WINTER STEELHEAD holding through cold months.
Pine River — December
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Pigeon River — December
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Sturgeon River — December
Closed for trout. Steelhead in lower reaches.
Black River — December
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
Two-Hearted River — December
Closed to trout fishing. UP winter.
Fox River — December
Closed to trout fishing. UP winter.
Timber Coulee Creek — December
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
West Fork Kickapoo River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Kickapoo River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Black Earth Creek — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Mt. Vernon Creek — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Elk Creek — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Blue River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Seas Branch — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Tomorrow River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Wolf River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Bois Brule River — December
Closed on most reaches. Verify steelhead-water sections in WDNR rules.
Namekagon River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
White River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Prairie River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Oconto River — December
Closed for trout. Some lower-river steelhead access — verify WDNR.
Root River — December
Closed to trout fishing. Off-season.
South Branch Root River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
North Branch Root River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Whitewater River — December
Outside park closed. Year-round C&R inside park — winter midge fishing.
Middle Fork Whitewater River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
North Fork Whitewater River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Trout Run Creek — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Rush Creek — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Straight River — December
Closed to trout fishing.
Knife River — December
Closed for trout. Some lower-river steelhead access — verify MN DNR.
Baptism River — December
Closed for trout. Steelhead access on open sections — verify MN DNR.
Cascade River — December
Closed for trout. Steelhead access on open sections — verify MN DNR.
Temperance River — December
Closed for trout. Steelhead access on open sections — verify MN DNR.
Brule River — December
Closed for trout. Steelhead access on open sections — verify MN DNR.
Poplar River — December
Closed for trout. Steelhead access on open sections — verify MN DNR.
Upper Iowa River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Limestone-spring flows stay open through winter. Year-round Iowa trout season.
Yellow River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Year-round Iowa trout season.
Volga River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Year-round Iowa trout season.
Turkey River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Year-round Iowa trout season.
Bloody Run Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Year-round Iowa trout season. C&R / artificials only.
Paint Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Year-round Iowa trout season.
Bear Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Year-round Iowa trout season. Cold limestone-spring water stays open.
North Fork Maquoketa River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Year-round Iowa trout season.
Waterloo Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Year-round Iowa trout season. C&R / artificials only in posted sections.
French Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Year-round Iowa trout season.
Village Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Year-round Iowa trout season.
White River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Scuds always. Cold dam-release tailwater fishes year-round.
North Fork River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Scuds always. Cold dam-release tailwater fishes year-round.
Little Red River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Scuds always. Cold dam-release tailwater fishes year-round.
Spring River — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Scuds always. Constant 58°F Mammoth Spring water fishes year-round regardless of weather.
Crooked Creek — December
Midges (size 20-24) primary. Cool freestone water stays fishable on warm afternoons.
Chagrin River — December
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, stoneflies, streamers. Midges for any resident trout.
Grand River — December
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, stoneflies, streamers. Midges for resident fish.
Rocky River — December
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, stoneflies, streamers. Heavy stocking supports a strong winter run.
Vermilion River — December
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, stoneflies, streamers.
Conneaut Creek — December
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, stoneflies, streamers.
Cuyahoga River — December
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, stoneflies, streamers.
Ashtabula River — December
STEELHEAD continuing. Egg patterns, stoneflies, streamers.
Mad River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Year-round Ohio trout season; spring-fed water stays fishable.
Big Darby Creek — December
Cold-season smallmouth. Slow nymphing in deep pools.
Clear Fork of Mohican River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold winter on regulated flows.
Current River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Streamers for browns. Year-round Missouri trout season; spring-fed Current stays fishable through winter.
Jacks Fork River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Streamers for browns. Year-round trout season.
Eleven Point River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Streamers for wild browns. Year-round season on this remote gem.
North Fork of White River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Streamers for wild browns. Year-round season on Missouri’s premier wild trout river.
Huzzah Creek — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Spring-fed flow stays fishable through winter.
Gasconade River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary on the upper trout reach. Cold-season smallmouth nymphing on lower river.
Chattahoochee River (Helen Headwaters) — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on warm cloudy days. Year-round season. Fish deep slow runs and holding water.
Chatooga River (Wild & Scenic Headwaters) — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on warm cloudy days. DH section single-hook artificial only. Streamer fishing for big browns in deep canyon pools.
Tallulah River (Rabun County Headwaters) — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on warm cloudy days. Fish deep slow runs through the headwaters.
Conasauga River (Cohutta Wilderness) — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. Artificial-only restriction in effect. Streamers for wild browns in deep canyon pools. Cold long-hike fishing.
Soque River — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on warm cloudy days. Year-round season; productive Blue Ridge water through winter.
Toccoa River (Blue Ridge Tailwater) — December
Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on warm cloudy days. DH section single-hook artificial only. Trophy streamer fishing in cold tailwater pools.
Kenai River — December
Off-season. Gauge typically offline due to ice. Rainbow trout fishery effectively closed. Plan for next year.
Russian River — December
Off-season. River frozen. Plan for next sockeye opener.
Anchor River — December
Off-season. River begins freezing on edges. Steelhead window closes.
Gulkana River — December
Off-season. River frozen. Plan for next year.
Situk River — December
Winter steelhead. Cold, demanding fishery. Yakutat heavy snowfall; access via Forest Highway 9.
Naknek River — December
Off-season. Lake-regulated flow remains stable but fishery closed for practical purposes.
Spearfish Creek — December
Midges (#20–24); Wooly Buggers
Rapid Creek (Pactola Tailwater) — December
Midges, Scuds
Rapid Creek (Rapid City) — December
Midges
Spring Creek — December
Midges
Whitewood Creek — December
Midges
Castle Creek — December
Midges
Cumberland River Tailwater — December
Midges only. Zebra Midge and WD-40 dominant. Good winter fishing — tailwater stays cold and consistent.
Hatchery Creek — December
Midges, Scuds. Winter fishing reliably productive on the small water.
Green River Tailwater — December
Midges, Scuds. Quiet — winter fishing for the dedicated.
Barren River Tailwater — December
Midges, Nymphs. Quiet winter fishing.
Rockcastle River — December
Midges, Streamers. Quiet — fish deep slow water.
Red River (Natural Bridge) — December
Midges. Quiet C&R fishery; solitude in the gorge.
Rock Creek — December
Midges. Wooly Buggers in the deep pools. Quiet winter fishery.
Truckee River — December
Midges; Pyramid Lake cutthroat moving upriver
East Walker River — December
Midges, Scuds; Wooly Buggers
West Walker River — December
Midges
East Fork Carson River — December
Midges
Lamoille Creek — December
Midges; canyon road may be closed by snow
South Fork Humboldt River — December
Midges
Guadalupe River — December
Midges (#18–24); San Juan Worms; Pheasant Tail; peak trout season
Llano River — December
Streamers, Wooly Buggers, San Juan Worms; slow fishing
Blanco River — December
Carp: Wooly Buggers, Nymphs; bass slow; winter conditions
Pedernales River — December
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; minimal activity
Frio River — December
Wooly Buggers; Streamers; watch for stocked trout near Leakey
South Llano River — December
Streamers; Wooly Buggers
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River — December
Midges (#18–24); Streamers; San Juan Worms; winter trout fishing
Cahaba River — December
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; San Juan Worms; deep pools
Little River Canyon — December
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; San Juan Worms; deep pools
Tallapoosa River — December
Midges (#18–24); Streamers; San Juan Worms; winter trout
Paint Rock River — December
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; San Juan Worms; quiet winter water
Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River — December
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; San Juan Worms; deep pool fishing
Blue River — December
Midges (#18–24); Streamers; San Juan Worms; winter trout fishing in spring-fed water
Mountain Fork River — December
Midges (#18–24); Streamers; San Juan Worms; winter tailwater holds trout
Illinois River — December
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; deep pool fishing; catfish in slow holes
Baron Fork — December
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; deep pool fishing; bass dormant
Glover River — December
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; deep pool fishing; remote and quiet
Kiamichi River — December
Streamers; Wooly Buggers; deep pool fishing for catfish and largemouth
How to Use This Calendar
Match the Hatch
Hatches listed are what you're likely to encounter, not guarantees. Weather and water temperature drive emergence. Overcast days trigger BWO and PMD hatches — sunny days slow them down.
Check Conditions First
Hatch timing means nothing if the river is blown out from runoff. Always check the live gauge data on each river's page before making the drive. Conditions change daily in spring.
Ask the Hatch Advisor
For real-time recommendations based on current CFS, temperature, and today's conditions — use the AI Hatch Advisor on any river detail page. It knows what the gauge is showing right now.
Go deep on a river