3 tips for fly-fishing success in autumn, including timing, flies and tactics

#2  FORAGE

Our common fly-rod species exhibit distinct fall patterns, which savvy fly anglers can exploit. River trout, for one, are getting ready to spawn, becoming territorial and aggressive toward anything entering their domain. They abandon their usual caution, making them vulnerable to well-presented streamers and attractor patterns. A proven daily plan is to start with streamers to locate active fish, then switch to nymphs or wet flies for feeding fish in runs and pools. Also keep a few dry flies ready in case you find one of those magical midday fall hatches. Egg patterns are handy, too, especially if fish are already spawning.

Meanwhile, warmwater fly species such as northern pike and bass enter feeding overdrive, gorging themselves before the cold months arrive. This is the perfect time to pull out big, bold flies, and fish them with aggressive retrieves.