Tips for Successful Early Season Fly Fishing

Part 1

by

Eugene P. Macri Jr.

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© 2007 E. P. Macri Jr.

Many fly anglers  simply are not very successful in the early season.  This is usually the result of two major problems: 1) lack of preparation 2) their refusal to adjust to methods necessary to be successful.  So let's put a little check list together for some help.

1. Clean your fly lines.  Yes, I know it's suppose to last and float forever but I have never seen one that could.  If it needs washed refer to our article elsewhere on this site for restoration.  Otherwise, get some Armour All and clean it.
2. Change the damn leader you cheap bastard!  This is one of the cheapest parts of your equipment.  Put a new 7 1/2 foot leader on tapered to around 4x.  Then you can add new tippet material to this section.  We like knotless leaders!
3. Go through your fly box and arrange them for the season replacing whatever you need.
4. Shapen your hooks and check your flies.  Yes, I know no one wants to do this but you will miss many fish if you don't
5. Check and fix any leaks in your hippers or waders.  Get off your ass because the coldwater seeping in can kill an otherwise delightful day on the stream.
6. Get your damn water themometer out and use it!
7. Temperature and light are usually the keys to success in the early spring.
8. Use a rod with enough power and backbone to get the job done in the spring.  I like 5 and 6 weights that are 8.6 to 9 feet long.
9. Get those split shot out and realize that you must use them if you want a lot of activity in the spring.
10. Most of the best action in the spring on most freestone streams is from around 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. This is when you want to be on the water.