What are the best fly fishing flies for each season in the state of Washington?
Welcome to the ultimate guide for fly fishing in Washington State! From its rainforests to its alpine lakes and coastal streams, Washington's varied ecosystems provide a rich and varied angling experience. Here's your season-by-season guide to the top 5 fly fishing flies in the Evergreen State.
Spring: The Awakening of Waters
Spring in Washington sees the melting of snow and the awakening of its rivers and lakes.
Sculpin Patterns: Ideal for larger trout in rivers swollen with spring runoff.
March Brown Dry Fly: Effective during the March Brown mayfly hatches common in Washington.
Bead Head Nymphs: Great for deeper, still-cold waters, mimicking a range of aquatic insects.
Blue Winged Olive: Perfect for those typical overcast spring days in Washington.
Chironomid Patterns: Essential for lake fishing, as midges hatch prolifically in spring.
Summer: The Peak Season
Summer is the prime time for fly fishing in Washington, with long days and abundant hatches.
Caddis Dry Flies: For the evening hatches, a staple on Washington rivers.
Pink Salmon Fly: Critical for odd-numbered years on rivers like the Skagit and Stillaguamish.
Hopper Patterns: Highly effective, especially near grassy banks and in windy conditions.
Terrestrial Patterns: Like ants and beetles, for late summer fishing in forested areas.
Damsel Fly Nymph: Excellent for lake fishing as damsels become active.
Fall: The Season of Change
As the leaves change, so does the fly fishing in Washington, with new opportunities emerging.
Egg Patterns: Useful in rivers with spawning salmon, attracting trout and steelhead.
Streamer Patterns: Like the Woolly Bugger, in darker colors for aggressive pre-winter trout.
Blue Winged Olive: Continues to be effective on cooler, overcast days.
Steelhead Wet Flies: Essential for the steelhead runs in rivers like the Columbia and Snake.
October Caddis: A larger caddisfly imitation that's effective in fall.
Winter: The Quiet Season
Winter fly fishing in Washington can be challenging but rewarding, with steelhead as a prime target.
Spey Flies: For winter steelhead in the larger rivers.
Zebra Midge: Essential for trout in the slower-moving waters and tailwaters.
Egg Patterns: Still effective in areas with late-spawning salmon.
San Juan Worm: Useful during periods of rain-induced runoff.
Stonefly Nymphs: Effective in colder waters where stoneflies are active.
Washington-Specific Insights
Respect the Runs: Be aware of salmon and steelhead runs and understand the regulations surrounding them.
Weather Variability: Washington's weather can be highly variable. Be prepared for rain in the coastal areas and colder conditions in the mountains.
Local Knowledge: Consult with local fly shops for the latest information on hatches and river conditions, especially for steelhead fishing.
Washington State offers a diverse fly fishing experience, with each season bringing its own unique opportunities and challenges. With these fly recommendations, you're set for a year of fruitful angling in the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy the beauty and bounty of Washington's waters!
