A Guide to Fall Fly Fishing
Dec 13, 2024
If I could pick one season to go fly fishing, it would undoubtedly be the fall. Autumn offers an incredible combination of cooler weather, stunning scenery, and active fish. During this season, big brown trout are on the move, and most trout species are hungry and ready to feed on larger flies. Fall also provides opportunities to target a variety of species like bass, pike, and even carp. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, fall fly fishing is an experience worth exploring. Let’s dive into the tools, tactics, and tips for making the most of this magical season.
Fall Fly Fishing Flies
When it comes to selecting flies for fall fly fishing, bigger is often better. In the autumn months, I’m typically targeting larger fish, so I choose flies designed to attract attention. The best fall brown trout flies are big and incorporate a flash of color—think orange, red, or yellow—to mimic the vibrant hues of the season.
For classic patterns like Hare’s Ear Nymphs, Woolly Buggers, and Stonefly Nymphs remain effective, but I like to modify them for fall. Adding a pop of orange to the bead or a touch of extra weight can make all the difference. Streamers are another go-to for fall trout fishing; articulated patterns with lots of movement tend to provoke aggressive strikes from territorial fish. These are some of the best fall flies you can use to maximize your success.
For bass, darker streamer patterns like leech patterns work exceptionally well. I prefer articulated streamers because their lifelike action mimics baitfish and catches the attention of predatory fish. Fall fishing bass flies need to have plenty of movement to entice strikes. Pike and carp also respond well to large, flashy flies that stand out in cooler, clearer waters.
Equipment for Autumn Fly Fishing
Since I’m throwing bigger flies in the fall, I often use a heavier rod for better control and casting power. A 6-weight rod with a fighting butt is my preferred choice, and the Truth Z fly rod has never let me down. It’s versatile enough for trout yet powerful enough for larger species like bass and pike.
Pairing your rod with the right fly line is essential. I’ve had great success using Scientific Anglers Infinity line. It’s highly adaptable and handles everything from big streamers to multi-fly setups. In fall, water conditions can vary; low and clear water might require lighter presentations, while murky or fast-flowing water might call for heavier, more visible flies. Staying flexible with your equipment and tactics is key to maximizing success.
Best Months to Fly Fish in the Fall
September
Fly Fishing in September still carries a hint of summer, but the fishing can be fantastic. Grasshoppers reach their peak size in early fall, making hopper patterns extremely productive. If you’re fishing in higher elevations, you’ll enjoy the added bonus of hearing elk bugling—a unique experience that adds to the magic of fall fly fishing.
October
Fly fishing in October is prime time for fall fly fishing. Brown trout are often on the move to spawn, showcasing their stunning buttery hues. This is the perfect time to target pre-spawn browns with streamers or larger nymphs. However, be mindful of fish actively spawning or guarding redds. Protecting the next generation of brown trout is crucial, so avoid disturbing these areas.
November
Fly fishing in November can be a hit-or-miss month, as colder weather starts to set in. However, if you’re fortunate enough to experience an unseasonably warm day, it can lead to some of the best fishing of the year. Hungry trout are eager to fatten up before winter, and the quieter rivers mean less competition from other anglers. Some of my most memorable fishing days have been warm November afternoons with nonstop action.
Fall Fly Fishing Tips and Tactics
Pay Attention to Water Levels and Temperatures: Fall weather can cause fluctuating water levels and temperatures. Keep an eye on local conditions and adjust your strategy accordingly. Cooler water temps often mean fish will be more active during midday when the sun warms the water slightly.
Match the Hatch—But Think Big: While matching the hatch is always a good starting point, don’t be afraid to experiment with larger patterns in fall. Big fish are often looking for bigger meals as they prepare for winter.
Work the Right Areas: In fall, fish tend to congregate in specific areas. Look for deeper pools, runs, and undercut banks where fish can find both food and shelter. During warmer parts of the day, they may move into shallower water to feed.
Use Streamers Effectively: Streamer fishing can be highly effective in fall. Use a slow, steady retrieve or add pauses to mimic an injured baitfish. Vary your presentation until you find what works best for the day.
Don’t Forget About Subsurface Fishing: Nymphing remains a productive tactic during fall, especially when trout are feeding below the surface. Double nymph rigs or a nymph/streamer combo can increase your chances of hooking up.
Common Questions About Fall Fly Fishing
What flies are best for fall fly fishing?
Streamers, nymphs with added weight or color, and hopper patterns are excellent choices for autumn fly fishing.
What fish species are most active in fall?
Brown trout, rainbow trout, bass, pike, and even carp are active during autumn.
When is the best time of day to fish in fall?
Mid-morning to early afternoon is often the most productive, as water temperatures warm slightly during the day.
What gear adjustments should I make for fall fishing?
Use a heavier rod and line to handle bigger flies and consider adding more weight to your nymph rigs for deeper presentations.
Final Thoughts
Fall fly fishing offers incredible opportunities for anglers to enjoy the beauty of the season and the thrill of targeting aggressive, hungry fish. Whether you’re fishing for trout, bass, or pike, autumn’s changing conditions and active fish make it an exciting time to hit the water. With the right flies, equipment, and tactics, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories on the river this fall.
So grab your gear, tie on those big fall fly fishing flies, and embrace the magic of autumn fly fishing. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year!
Tight Lines,
Matthew Taylor