When summer comes to a close, it’s common for many anglers to hang their lines and begin their wait for spring. But we’re here to tell you the fall is an incredible time to continue your fly-fishing adventures. In this article, we discuss some essential things to consider before you embark on a fall fly-fishing excursion.
Water Temperature Is a Big Deal
Avid fly fishers know that the best bites come either early in the day or later. This is especially true for those hot summer days. If you’re heading to North Georgia for a fly-fishing-filled weekend, the fall is supreme for water temperature.
The benefit to getting in the water in the fall is these time constraints tend to fade away, and catching the best bite comes a little easier. You don’t have to get into the water until mid-morning, but once the water temperature dips into the 30s or 40s, the fish tend to tuck away.
Don’t Forget Streamers
Brown trout have a tendency to grow aggressive as the season moves along. Investing in some streamers can help you maintain a sense of control. A few key things to note about streamers include:
- Use orange-toned patterns. This color is particularly attractive to fish in the fall.
- Take advantage of fluorocarbon. It’s resilient and sinks easily.
- Stay closer to the bank.
- You can increase the fly’s movement with a strong mono loop.
Move Your Fly
Fall can bring a host of things to the water, from sludging leaves, wind-blown debris, twigs, and everything in between. The extra fluff in the water can not only affect the river’s surface but also thicken the water columns.
You can stand out among the debris by giving your fly a twitch-like movement in the water. Sometimes, fish can’t understand the difference between debris and food, so make the fly’s presence known.
Try Longer Leaders
Long, thin leaders may be more challenging to cast, but they are incredibly beneficial in the fall with the water levels. Fall waters have a tendency to be slow, low, and clear. The fish react to these changes. Consider a 12-foot leader when the fish seem more on edge.
Another thing to consider for fall fly-fishing is lightening your tippet by one. Try to be more mindful of your leader’s butt and line. The fall fish are jumpier.
Terrestrials Are Great Fish Food
Large terrestrial insects make for excellent fish food. They are easy to see and typically packed with proteins. Your large terrestrials can help you grab rising fish as they are excellent for probing flies. In addition to terrestrials, ensure your fly box is fully stocked with beetles, small to medium-sized grasshoppers, and winged ants.
Hopefully, this has you convinced to extend your fly-fishing excursion well into the fall and enjoy what you love most. Travel to a new location if you’re bored with your local area and see how different the waters are in the fall. And remember to have fun!
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