Fly fishing is ingrained as a widespread pastime for amateur and experienced fishers all over Canada and the United States of America. Fly fishing utilizes a series of different lures to catch a plethora of saltwater and freshwater fish. For first-time fly anglers, we recommend you read our other blogs and predetermine which day you plan on fishing to prepare for weather conditions, as well as the equipment you plan on bringing. Fly fishing is a fun and exciting experience for everyone; however, it can be tricky, especially during high water. If this is your first-time fly fishing or you’ve never fly fished during high water, here are a few strategies to keep in mind.
Weather Conditions
As previously stated it’s important to check out the weather conditions before you decide to go fly fishing; you’ll want to make sure you have the proper attire, however, if you let it affect whether or not you’re going to go fishing, you may end up sabotaging your trip! The fact of the matter is, as a fly angler, you must be able to face both the poor and clear weather conditions for optimal results. Many will view rain clouds and wind as a sign to stay home, but that means that those not out on the water will miss an incredible haul. Of course, we advise against fishing on days with incredibly heavy winds or intense rain or snow, but drizzle, fluries, and light winds should not dissuade an individual from attempting to fly fish. Fish in high water still need to eat.
How High Water Affects Trout
There are many good reasons to continue fly fishing during high water, and one of the biggest reasons is the change in activity of trout in high water. In a Trouts life living in a body of high water they are forced to find a safe place to lodge to avoid the intense current. Intense currents also make it nearly impossible for a trout to find a enough food supply because they won’t be able to see their food. However, even though seeing food may be problematic for trout, there will be more food available as many bugs and insects will be displaced from rocks and mud surrounding the sreams banks. High water will disrupt common bugs & vermin, including crickets, grasshoppers, ants and spiders providing trout with an abundance of food. This is an incredible opportunity for fly anglers, especially if they are presented with at least two-three feet of clear visibility, as they’ll be able to cast their flies unimpeded and wisely over a large number of unsuspecting trout.
How an Inbound Tributary Affects the Movement of Trout
If you plan on fly fishing in a body of water with inbound tributaries, it’s important to know where you should stand and what to look out for. For example, if the tributary is dumping dirty water on one side of the riverbed, you should look for a clearer spot to position yourself, as trout will swim away from the tributary to ensure their visibility remains clear. However, you can use this dirty water to your advantage; casting your fly into the muddy water and then proceed to move your fly back into the clear water can lure unsuspecting fish into your reach. When the water levels are high, you should expect trout to swim into brooks and backwater where the currents and sightlines are clearer. High water will also force fish around the bank of whichever river or lake you’re fishing in, which means you’ll be able to land trout that are feasting on small insects in safe little streams.
To Dry Fly Fish or Not
When water levels are high, many fishers will decide against dry fly fishing. However, you can miss out on a great angling experience if you decide to postpone until high water levels descend. Using a fly that is large, feathery and fluffy will cast an alluring shadow against the backdrop of the sky above. If you decide to fly fish in high water, you won’t need to ‘match the hatch’ to imitate the movements and actions of an insect.
Talk About Tackle
As previously mentioned, it’s important to plan to ensure your fly-fishing experience on high water goes as smoothly as possible. Due to the extra pressure the current may provide, it’s wise to upgrade your tackle and pick a 7-8 weight rod instead of the lightweight tackle that would most commonly be used for fly fishing. Another added benefit to using a 7-8 weight rod as opposed to a lighter rod is that you will be given a little extra help when trying to reel in your catch if it decides to fight against you.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
It can be very easy to get frustrated and dissatisfied with the fishing conditions if you are having no success or no close calls. However, fly fishing in these conditions is a marathon, not a race; you must pace yourself. One such phrase that describes how you should go about fly fishing goes, “Slow down when the fishing is slow.” Don’t get frustrated and begin trying to take unconventional approaches to fly fishing in high water; instead, focus all your time and energy in locations with clearer sightlines and heavy volumes of fish. During high water Trout are not as easily scared; you can take your time and scout potential areas without fearing that there will be no trout available when you are ready to cast your line.
Not every day is the “perfect” day to fish, but it shouldn’t prevent you from getting out there on a day off or when you need to relax. The trout are there and ready to bite, it’s just up to you to get there! For more information on fly fishing in high water, equipment & strategies, as well as other helpful articles, contact The Fishin Hole in Edmonton, Alberta today!