Spring fly fishing across the United States

Ah, spring … the season that reawakens the fly fisher's soul. As winter's icy grip loosens, snow melts, rivers swell, and hungry trout suddenly seem ready to feast. From the high peaks of the Rockies to the serene Appalachian foothills, spring offers a diverse tapestry of fly fishing all across the United States. There are some great spring fishing destinations, from coast to coast.

Here are some ideas.
Spring in the Rockies
Springtime in the Rockies really only registers to fly fishers and baseball fans. With unsettled weather the rule rather than the exception during “mud season,” anglers hoping to hit the water from New Mexico to Montana should be prepared for just about anything. But there is a sweet spot for fly fishers this time of year — it starts just as mountain snows begin to melt, but before runoff kicks into high gear. For now, most rivers are fishable and water levels are stable. In six weeks or so, that won’t be the case.

Here are some suggestions for spring fishing in the Rockies:
● Colorado's Tailwaters: Tailwaters like the South Platte and the storied Taylor are a
haven for fly fishers, virtually all year long. Early spring brings midge hatches, followed
by the much-anticipated Blue-winged Olives, and the trout start looking up. Then comes
the fabled Mother’s Day caddis hatch — if the hatch can pop before runoff really gets
going, dry-fly fishing can be epic.
● Montana's Freestones: Montana's freestone rivers, like the Gallatin and the
Yellowstone, can fish really well before runoff starts in earnest. But, as the weather
warms and the snow starts to melt, most freestoners in Montana — and across the West
— will be murky torrents.
● Stillwaters: And that’s when die-hard river and stream anglers need to be ready to
pivot. Stillwaters in the West can be very productive in the spring, particularly during and
just after ice out. Anglers can do very well walking the banks and looking for hungry,
cruising trout this time of year, and the trout can be on anything from newly hatched
midges or baitfish that are also moving into the shallows in search of warm water and
food.

Appalachian Spring
The Appalachian Mountains offer a different kind of spring fly fishing experience. The smaller streams warm up quickly, triggering early hatches and providing ample opportunities for anglers. This is the time of year when anglers out West look longingly to the Eastern Seaboard and wish they could be there among the blooming redbuds and dogwoods, walking quiet mountain streams in search of wild trout.

● Appalachian brook trout:

The high-elevation streams from north Georgia north to the Adirondacks are home to
native brook trout. Spring is the prime time to target these beautiful fish with dry flies. As
the weather warms, the brookies will become more active, and the fishing can be really
good. Load a fly box full of attractor dry flies, like small Stimulators, Royal Wulffs and
Adams, and get to it.

● Pennsylvania's Limestone Streams:
Pennsylvania's limestone streams, such as the Letort Spring Creek, are teeming with
insect life. The hatches of sulphurs and caddis are a magnet for selective trout. Water
can be a bit murky if there’s any snow runoff, and that’s a good thing for these highly
educated fish — the slightly off-color water makes for less selective trout. It might be the
best time of the year to go after these storied fish.

Don’t overlook the Midwest
Don't overlook the Midwest when it comes to spring fly fishing. This region holds some
surprising treasures for fly fishers. From the tannin-colored northwoods streams of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to the stunning Driftless Area trout waters, spring is an outstanding time of year to be on the water.
● Michigan's Trout Streams:
Michigan's rivers, like the Au Sable, see early hatches of Hendrickson mayflies, bringing
trout to the surface.
● Wisconsin's Driftless Area:
The Driftless Area in Wisconsin offers excellent spring creek fishing for wild brown trout.
Higher water will make for less-spooky fish and big streamers should move big fish.

Spring Fly Fishing Considerations
● Water Conditions: Spring runoff can affect water levels and clarity. Be sure to check
the conditions before heading out.
● Hatches: Matching the hatch is always a key to success. Observe the insects present
and choose your flies accordingly.
● Regulations: Always check local regulations for season dates and restrictions.
● Safety: High water can be dangerous. Exercise caution, use a wading staff if you’re a bit
unstable and wear a life jacket when wading.

Spring Fly Fishing Gear Essentials
● 5-weight rod for trout
● Waders and boots
● Assortment of flies (nymphs, dries, streamers)
● Tippet and leader material
● Net
● Floatant and desiccant

Spring can be a great time for fly fishing in the United States. With the country’s diverse
landscapes and abundant fishing opportunities, there's likely something for everyone. So grab
your gear, hit the water, and experience the thrill of spring fly fishing.