THE METHOD
Trout will rise in the first weeks of the season, so why not start with a dry-fly? Follow this simple, efficient approach
THRILLED BY THE PROSPECT OF A new season, anglers will soon be rushing to the rivers in excitement. But some will leave disappointed, thwarted by prolonged periods of trout inactivity. However, even seemingly barren days are punctuated by fleeting moments of magic. To succeed, it is best to plan carefully and choose your moments. Opportunity is dictated by the weather and chances must be seized between floods, high winds and icy temperatures. If you are prepared, you could catch your biggest trout of the season.
Dry-fly tactics are no more successful in spring than nymphs, but seeing the first rising trout take your fly from the surface is a joy to behold.
First, wrap up warm
You won’t fish well if you’re cold, and fabulous modern technical clothing means there are few excuses for not keeping the elements at bay. If you have neoprene chest waders, wear them instead of breathable waders. Modern thermals and Thinsulate jackets are a godsend, and a waterproof wading jacket on top will not only keep you dry, but also stop wind chill. A buff around your neck can make a dramatic difference to your body temperature, as will a small towel to dry wet hands (a micro fleece towel will also function as a fly drier). A hat is necessary, of course, but make sure it’s warming and not just for show.
Time your visit
In the first weeks of the season you will probably turn up at a river after a hearty fry-up and nothing will be rising, so you will put on a team of heavy nymphs and fish hard until lunchtime, by which time you'll be cold, possibly hungry, and your confidence will have been sapped.
Instead of turning up at first light and fishing a river that may appear devoid of trout, remember that the fish at this time of the season will only move to their preferred feeding positions if spurred on by a hatch around or just after lunchtime.
We suggest arriving around 11 o’clock, leaving enough time to choose pools and prepare your set-up before the midday warmth triggers insect activity.
In March, insects will usually emerge from around midday to, say, 3pm, giving you an hour or more to assess the situation.
You may see the odd olive dun trickling off early, but do not be tempted to rush in — you can spook fish before the main event. The hatch must be sufficient to move trout from their lair — big trout, especially, are more likely to wait until it is in full swing.
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