As winter loosens its grip and signs of spring begin to emerge, anglers eagerly return to Falling Spring Creek for one of the most exciting times of the year. The transition from cold to mild temperatures brings increased trout activity, hatching insects, and fresh opportunities on the water. Whether you’re shaking off the winter rust or eager to test new flies, here’s how to make the most of early spring fly fishing.
1. Prepare for Changing Conditions
Spring weather is unpredictable—one day might feel like summer, while the next brings snow flurries. Being prepared for changing conditions will keep you comfortable and ready for action.
What to Bring:
- Layered Clothing: Mornings can be chilly, but temperatures often rise quickly by midday. Dress in layers for flexibility.
- Waders & Boots: Spring runoff and recent rains may create higher water levels, making proper gear essential.
- Rain Jacket: Sudden spring showers are common, so a waterproof shell can keep you dry.
2. Watch the Water Levels
Snowmelt and spring rains can lead to fluctuating water conditions, affecting where and how you fish.
Tips for Fishing Around Spring Runoff:
- Fish slower-moving edges and seams where trout seek refuge from fast currents.
- Target deeper pools that provide stability during high water.
- Be patient—if the water is murky from runoff, try darker or larger flies to improve visibility.
3. Match the Hatch: Spring Fly Patterns
As temperatures rise, insect activity increases, bringing trout out of their winter sluggishness. Matching the hatch is key to success.
Spring Favorites:
- Blue Wing Olive (BWO): A staple early-season hatch, especially on cloudy days.
- Quill Gordon & Hendrickson Dry Flies: These mayfly imitations signal the start of prime dry-fly fishing.
- Caddis Emergers & Pupa: As the water warms, caddis activity ramps up—be ready with emergers.
- Pheasant Tail & Hare’s Ear Nymphs: Great for imitating early-stage mayflies and active year-round.
If you’re unsure what’s hatching, turn over a few streamside rocks or observe the surface for rising fish.
4. Fish the Warmest Part of the Day
Unlike summer, when early mornings and evenings are prime, spring trout are most active when the sun has had time to warm the water.
Best Fishing Windows:
- Late morning to early afternoon, when insect activity increases.
- Cloudy or drizzly days often provide excellent dry-fly opportunities.
5. Be Mindful of Spawning Fish
Spring isn’t just an exciting time for anglers—it’s also a crucial season for wild trout reproduction. Spawning fish should be left undisturbed to ensure a healthy population for the future.
How to Respect Spawning Fish:
- Avoid fishing over redds (gravel beds where trout lay eggs). They appear as lighter-colored patches in shallow water.
- If you spot actively spawning fish, admire them from a distance but don’t cast to them.
- Practice careful catch-and-release techniques to minimize stress on fish as they become more active.
Spring is a time of renewal, both for the stream and for those who love it. As the landscape comes back to life and trout become more active, there’s no better time to shake off winter and get back on the water.
Dust off your fly box, check your gear, and get ready—Falling Spring Creek is waking up, and the best fishing of the year is just beginning!
Are you ready for spring fishing? Share your favorite early-season experiences and fly recommendations with us at our next meeting or on social media!