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The Best New Flies of 2023

Max Inchausti
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The Best New Flies of 2023

Fly fishermen have a knack for gear, whether it’s new rods, reels, waders, boots, or nets. The unfortunate truth for most is that no matter how nice your equipment is, it won’t catch you the fish. That is where fly selection is critical. Choosing the right pattern can make or break the day regardless of what you target. More times than I care to admit, I’ve worked a run without a bite, only to change flies and start catching fish immediately. A wide selection of patterns and sizes is the ticket to putting more fish in the net. Luckily, new and innovative flies hit the fly bins every year, giving anglers the edge over fish that have seen it all. Here are my picks for the best new flies of 2023.

Check Out The Patterns Below:

How We Chose These Patterns

Flies are one of the most debated topics amongst fly anglers. Some anglers will fish any and everything, while others have their ideas of what draws the line between flies and lures. Regardless of where you land, the best flies consistently put fish in the net regardless of conditions. After countless hours on the water, we landed on a selection of flies for various fishing styles that repeatedly resulted in fish. In testing new patterns, a few things set the best out from the rest. They caught fish and featured quality hooks, beads, and materials that held up to abuse, especially when fly prices are nearing four bucks a piece.

Best Nymph Pattern: Umpqua Tailwater Sowbug Jig CDC Tungsten

  • Sizes: 14 and 16
  • Colors: Sow bug with silver or pink bead
  • Hook Type: Barbless jig

 Pros:

  • Mimics a wide range of sowbugs and scuds
  • Jig-style fly rides hook point up
  • Tungsten bead

Cons:

  • Best used in tailwater fisheries where sowbugs are abundant

Sowbug patterns are a hidden gem amongst fly patterns. They don’t get the love that fancy mayfly and stonefly patterns get, but they’re incredibly effective. In practically every river, you can find a population of sowbugs. These tiny crustaceans are packed with protein and are found year-round. Umpqua’s newest sowbug pattern, the Tailwater Sowbug Jig CDC Tungsten, is simple but effective. Designed by legendary fly designed and competition angler Lance Egan, it is an excellent impressionistic fly. The sow scud dub body and a CDC collar create ample movement and a realistic color scheme. It’s available in sizes 14 and 16 to match most sowbugs and with two different bead colors—the natural silver bead fishes best in clearer water or areas with pressured fish. The pink bead option is a sure bet for off-color water or aggressive stocked fish.

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Best Dry Fly: Umpqua Foam Spinner

  • Sizes: 10, 12, and 16
  • Colors: Green drake and pink lady
  • Hook Type: Standard dry fly hook

 Pros:

  • Minimizes line twist
  • Floats well
  • A wide range of sizes mimics a majority of spinners

Cons:

  • It can be hard to see in low light

When a good mayfly spinner fall is happening, it’s hard to look in any direction and not see a rising fish. While fish are abundant, so are anglers, and fish, especially on pressured waterbodies, catch on fast. Umpqua’s Foam Spinner is one of the few patterns I’ve found that consistently fools wary trout. Its closed foam cell body floats well on the water, even in larger sizes. Anglers can imitate just about any spinner fall with a wide range of hook sizes and two color options. The Umpqua Foam Spinner pattern looks incredibly realistic in part to the hackle wings. Most spinner patterns on the market utilize synthetic wings, which work well but can be a pain to cast with light tippets. The hackle wings reduce the chance of line twists on fine tippets, resulting in delicate presentations.

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Best Saltwater Fly: Umpqua Danger Muffin Crab

  • Sizes: 02, 04, 06
  • Colors: Ghost Tan, Golden Brown, and Sandy Olive
  • Hook Type: Saltwater jig

 Pros:

  • Incredibly realistic
  • Lands softly
  • Various sizes and colors

Cons:

  • It can be hard to cast in strong winds

 Permit fishing is the ultimate test of an angler’s will. They are wary, powerful, and, unfortunately for us, incredibly particular. On moving tides, they cruise flats and channel edges looking for crabs, where anglers hunt for them, throwing their best crab imitations. One that stands out amongst the rest is the Danger Muffin Crab. This incredibly effective pattern is similar to other impressionistic patterns but features an added level of realism. The genius behind this fly is the mixture of deer hair and rabbit for the body. It creates a realistic mottling effect and lets the fly land softly in the water. It’s offered in three colors and multiple sizes, so anglers can match the hatch and imitate any crab. When the permit push onto the flats, make sure this pattern is in your box.

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Best Attractor Fly: Umpqua Twisted Worm

  • Sizes: 16 – 2.5mm bead, 16 – 3.0mm bead
  • Colors: Pink and red
  • Hook Type: Jig hook

 Pros:

  • Great action
  • Finesse option to traditional worm patterns
  • Jig hooks hold fish well

Cons:

  • Best for off-color water

 Love it or hate it, the San Juan Worm and its offspring are one of the most effective trout patterns anywhere. This iteration of a worm pattern, the Twisted Worm, takes its effectiveness one step further. It’s made with furled spanflex that has great action in the water and is much more durable than traditional squirmy material. The slim profile helps this fly get down fast, and is available with two different bead sizes. Fished on a euro rig, this is a great anchor fly to draw streaks from fish. Even when traditional worm flies don’t work, the small size and natural movement draw strikes more often than not. So rest assured; this is a pattern you can always find floating around my fly box.

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Best Streamer: Umpqua Foam Gut Minnow

  • Sizes: 01
  • Colors: Black/purple, Chartreuse/fluorescent Yellow, and White/red
  • Hook Type: Nickel-plated streamer hook

Pros:

  • Draws consistent reaction strikes
  • It gives anglers a visual fishing experience
  • Multiple colors imitate a variety of baitfish

Cons:

  • Can’t target deeper fish

Over the years of pressure, saltwater fish, especially those in the Florida Keys, have become much more selective and wary. Small flies and ones that land softly are essential to target these fish effectively. The Foam Gut Minnow is a prime example of a fly designed out of necessity. This streamer pattern lands softly and has a sparse look in the water. It fishes just below the surface to imitate wounded baitfish. Whether targeting cruising tarpon or trophy trout, the combination of action and profile makes this a deadly pattern.

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Best Classic: Fulling Mill Tom Rosenbauer’s Deep Caddis Pupa

  • Sizes: 14 and 16
  • Colors: Tan caddis
  • Hook Type: Barbless nymph hook

 Pros:

  • Already established pattern with updated hardware
  • Sinks fast
  • Realistic impression of a caddis pupa

Cons:

  • Only offered in two sizes

For a good reason, Tom Rosenbauer’s Deep Caddis Pupa has earned its spot in countless angler’s boxes. It’s incredibly effective and can be fished in a variety of ways. Whether deep-dropped or swung, this fly draws consistent strikes when fish are keying in on caddisflies. The Fulling Mill version offers the same pattern with proven hardware. The barbless nickel-plated hooks are amongst the sharpest and strongest on the market. There’s a reason competition anglers turn to Fulling Mill. Paired with a black nickel bead and available in two sizes, it’s a worthy investment for anglers wanting an all-around caddis pattern.

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Final Thoughts

Every angler has their idea of what fly is the best. While I certainly have a few I gravitate towards, fishing them with confidence is critical. Plenty of times, I worked a hole top to bottom with the “so-called” hot fly only to put on my go-to and instantly hook up. Knowing how and where to fish your confidence patterns leads to more hookups. Still, new flies flood the market yearly, and many are worth trying out. The best way to find the right fly is to look for patterns similar to what you’re used to. These new patterns will fish like your go-to but with new materials and action that will fool wary fish. So next time you’re at the local fly shop, look around the boxes and see what’s new and interesting­ – it never hurts to change things up.

Article by Max Inchausti, be sure to check out Max on Instagram @east_coast_fly_fishing. 

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Artist Spotlight: Steven Weinberg

Gretchen Mahoney
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Artist Spotlight: Steven Weinberg

The Flylords met Steven Weinberg, a talented painter, and angler located in the Catskill Mountains. Steven creates stunning artwork that captures the beauty of the natural world. Along with his wife, Casey Scieszka, Steven runs the Spruceton Inn in West Kill, New York, where he hosts guests and artist residents. Learn more about Steven, his artwork, and the Spruceton Inn below!

Flylords: Where did you grow up?

Steven: Washington D.C. and Bethesda, MD. Those cities are not exactly the fly fishing hotbed of the country, but I spent a lot of time on the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River as a kid and have been fascinated by any kind of water ever since.

Photo Courtesy of Jamie Kennard @catskilltracks

As a kid, I felt like a rug was pulled out from under me and somehow outside time was replaced by sports time. When I was around ten, the time I spent wandering around the woods or my backyard was replaced by a controlled series of practices, tournaments, and coaches yelling at me. I was not a fan! Luckily, I discovered rock climbing in high school and fell deeply into that. I think climbing was my gateway drug into fly fishing. It’s the same bunch of weirdos who love talking about nature and gear and completely reject most rules except for safety. I mean, Yvon Chouinard started out as a climber, so maybe I’m onto something!

Photo Courtesy of Steven Weinberg

Flylords: How did you first become interested in art?

Steven: I was one of those kids who always had a crayon in his hands (and probably mouth, too). Then, growing up in the D.C. area, I had all of the free Smithsonian museums right in my backyard! If I wasn’t outside on a Saturday morning, I was probably at one of those. There’s nothing like being able to walk into a place and know exactly where to find your favorite Sargent, O’Keeffe, Homer, dinosaur skeleton, etc. I had plenty of inspiration!

Photo Courtesy of Steven Weinberg

I was very lucky to have an amazing art teacher in high school and outstanding painting and art history professors at Colby College in Waterville, ME. They provided an unbelievably helpful foundation. From there I’ve traveled across the world, made a whole bunch of children’s books, and just kept painting and sketching. I’m constantly trying new approaches and watching what my friends and fellow artists are making.

Photo Courtesy of Eric Davidson @arc_ceramics

Traveling right out of college and spending time in Morocco, China, and West Africa was very formative in terms of using watercolor. Most of my training had been in oil paints up till then. Oils are very hard to travel with, and I’ve tried. Watercolor dries quickly and is unforgiving, but when you nail it there’s nothing like it.

Flylords: What inspired you to start painting fish?

Steven: The fish have come directly from my love for fly fishing. Living in the Catskills now, with a fishing stream in my backyard, I spend a lot of time on the water fishing for brookies. I dare anyone to take a long look at the colors on a brook trout and not consider picking up a paintbrush.

Photo Courtesy of Ashley Bohan @westkillbrewing

Just about every fish I paint is one I caught, so that’s a nice part of the process. What I’ve treasured most about painting fish is getting to meet so many other anglers. I really like us! My paintings have let me do things like provide can-art for my neighbor West Kill Brewing’s Brookie Lager and illustrate the cover of Thomas McGuane’s fly fishing classic The Longest Silence. They’ve taken me from the somewhat-secretive Angler’s Club in NYC to Jimmy Kimmel’s fishing lodge in Idaho, The South Fork Lodge. I can’t wait to see what’s next!

Photo Courtesy of Steven Weinberg

Flylords: What do you find most rewarding and most challenging about your work?

Steven: It’s just like fly fishing: I’m taking the same set of tools, a similar approach, and fresh eyes to do the same thing again and again. If I do it right, it feels like I’m conjuring some set of magical powers. If not, I just need to walk up to the next pool.

Photo Courtesy of Jamie Kennard @catskilltracks

Flylords: What advice would you give to folks interested in an artistic career, but don’t know where to start?

Steven: Through writing and illustrating children’s books, I talk to little kids often and I get the same question. I have the same answer! Keep making art. Beyond that, seek out teachers and learn about the history of whatever art you’re making. At its most basic it’s just like fly fishing: put in the time on the water and in the studio. Everything else flows from there.

Photo Courtesy of Steven Weinberg

Flylords: How did the Spruceton Inn get started?

Steven: A while back my wife Casey Scieszka and I had this wild idea that we should move from Brooklyn to the Catskills and open an inn. On day two of looking for spots we stumbled upon what had been Arnold Schwarzenegger’s cousin’s hotel. It’s tucked into the back of a quiet valley with stunning views and quite the trout stream in the backyard. A fair amount of elbow grease later, we opened and have been written up in places like the NY Times and Conde Nast Traveller. We are now in our tenth year and a friend opened an award-winning brewery down next door. It’s been a pretty nice run.

Photo Courtesy of Steven Weinberg

Flylords: What inspired you to create the inn’s residency program?

Steven: My wife and I are both artists (she is a writer and designer), so we knew from day one that, on top of running an inn, we wanted to share this amazing space with other creative people. We’ve now hosted 79 artists and look forward to many more!

Photo Courtesy of Steven Weinberg

I love getting to peek into how other artists work, and get a chance to have a beer with people whose work I love! Less selfishly, I love seeing all the artists get to know each other and start to cross-pollinate amazing ideas. Especially coming out of the pandemic, when so many of us spent so much time in our own heads and studios, this really warms my heart! Applications open in August for the coming winter residency in November. You can apply here.

Flylords: How can folks best get in touch with you to purchase prints and originals or request commissions?

Steven: Please do! I have an online shop on my website. My newest work usually pops up on my Instagram first.

Photo Courtesy of Steven Weinberg

Flylords: Is there anything else you’d like to share about fishing, artwork, or otherwise?

Steven: I love what the fly fishing community is doing to encourage more inclusivity within the sport these days. I’ve learned a lot from Erica Nelson, Eeland Stribling, and everyone at Brown Folks Fishing to name just a few. Fly fishing belongs to all of us!

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How to Tie: The Parachute Hopper

Greg Stohrer
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How to Tie: The Parachute Hopper

In this week’s “How to Tie” video feature, Charlie Craven with Charlie’s Fly Box ties a natural grasshopper pattern that every angler should have in their box this hopper season, the Parachute Hopper.

Learn About This Fly:

Difficulty: Intermediate

Today we have fly patterns to cover nearly every fishing situation, tied with creativity that is only shared by artists and architects. Hopper patterns now can be found with realistic wings, articulated bodies, and foam to hold them high like a cork. These patterns will undoubtedly catch fish in lots of situations, but sometimes it’s the simple, natural patterns that end up being the right tool for the job. The Parachute Hopper by Charlie Craven is a hopper pattern that will land lighter than foam, and often create a more natural profile in the water for trout looking upward.

This fly is not necessarily difficult but can be if certain steps are rushed through. Make sure to take your time when tying in the legs, calf tail, and when wrapping the hackle. These are all steps that when overlooked and rushed, can ruin the profile of the fly completely. Take your time and the Parachute Hopper will come out just as Charlie intended it to.

During hopper season, you should always have a wide variety of synthetic and natural patterns in your box. In areas with pressure, sometimes a natural is exactly what the fish need to be enticed. They will not hold up a size 12 tungsten nymph, but for throwing a single or double dry, these flies are extremely effective. Don’t forget to share the love with our natural friends this hopper season, as carrying the Parachute Hopper can be the difference between catching and fishing.

Ingredients:

Now you know how to tie the Parachute Hopper!

Video and ingredients courtesy of Charlie’s Fly Box.

The New Colorado Cutthroat Native Reel from Ross Reels is HERE.

Nelson Oxley
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The New Colorado Cutthroat Native Reel from Ross Reels is HERE.

The second iteration of the Ross Reels x Trout Unlimited: Native Series is officially here, and we’re here to tell you all about it. Introducing, the Colorado Cutthroat Native Reel from Ross Reels.

ABOUT THE NATIVE SERIES

Earlier this year, Ross Reels partnered with Trout Unlimited in an effort to restore native trout species throughout the U.S. through an initiative titled: “The Native Series”. As part of the Native Series, Ross Reels and Trout Unlimited aimed to bring awareness and funding to the projects that support the revitalization efforts by releasing beautiful limited-edition reels with designs inspired by the fish they seek to save.

As the first iteration of the Native Series, Ross Reels unveiled the Colorado 2/3 Greenback Cutthroat Reel as a limited edition release this past February.

The first iteration of the Ross Reels Native Series: The Greenback.

A mere 495 of these remarkable reels were meticulously crafted, each adorned with a unique identification number ranging from 1 to 495. To commemorate its significance, the reel foot is elegantly engraved with the word “Greenback.”

In addition, $75 from the sale of each special edition reel was dedicated to the noble cause of the Poudre Headwaters Project. The funds raised through this endeavor play an instrumental role in the restoration efforts aimed at preserving the natural habitat of the greenback cutthroat trout in its native range.

 

 

During the “Troutfest” event organized by Colorado Trout Unlimited at Coors Field in Denver, Ross Reels proudly presented a grand total of over $31,000, which were the direct proceeds of the February launch of the Greenback Cutthroat reel. The immense success of this venture stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of both Ross Reels and their devoted customers towards the preservation and conservation of the greenback cutthroat trout species.

Just last week, Ross Reels unveiled their latest creation, the Colorado River Cutthroat Trout Reel. This remarkable reel was specifically designed to support the vital Clear Fork Muddy Creek Project, dedicated to the restoration of the Colorado River cutthroat trout within their native habitat. Renowned for their breathtaking beauty, the Colorado River cutthroat trout has earned its reputation as one of the most awe-inspiring and exquisite fish in all of North America.

colorado cutthroat trout

Similar to its predecessor, this special edition reel belongs to the distinguished 4/5 Colorado model series, with a limited production of only 495 units. Every purchase of this reel will contribute $75 towards the noble cause of the Clear Fork Muddy Creek Project, aimed at rejuvenating the Colorado River cutthroat trout population and preserving their natural environment within their native range.

To learn more about the new release, we chatted with Trout Unlimited’s Colorado Communications Coordinator: Kyle Perkins. Here’s what he had to say:

Flylords: Can you tell us about the Native Series Project?

Kyle: “The Ross Native Series is a series of limited edition reels that gives back to specific TU efforts to restore and protect native trout species. The first reel in the series, the Greenback Edition, aimed to raise funds that went directly to our Poudre Headwaters Project (PHP). The PHP is Colorado’s largest-ever restoration effort for native trout. The project aims to restore greenback cutthroat trout to nearly 40 miles of connected streams and multiple lakes in the Cache la Poudre Headers. Ross Reels presented a check to Colorado Trout Unlimited at this year’s Troutfest Colorado at Coors Field on July 8th for $31,125 as a direct result of the first reel.

Also at Troutfest Colorado, Ross and CTU launched the second reel in the series, The Colorado River Cutthroat Edition. This second in the series will benefit our work on the Clear Fork East Muddy Creek Native Fish Restoration Project.

The project came about while I was talking with Jeff Wagner, CEO of Mayfly Outdoors, at our annual Fall Rendezvous last October. He mentioned he wanted to do something to benefit native trout, and the rest is history. I’m in amazement at how fast this project was envisioned, planned, and executed. Those folks over at Mayfly move fast!”

Flylords: What is the focus of the Muddy Creek Restoration Project?

Kyle: “On the eastern flank of the Grand Mesa, NE of Paonia the Clear Fork East Muddy Creek Native Fish Restoration Project will prevent the upstream migration of non-native fish species, such as Brook Trout, Brown Trout, and Rainbow Trout, and provide a refuge for native green lineage Colorado River Cutthroat Trout (CRCT) to flourish in this remote high-altitude watershed. CPW has prioritized the reintroduction of this endemic green lineage CRCT in this reach and is committed to ongoing monitoring of fish barrier performance and fish populations. Once established, this metapopulation will serve as brood stock and will be relocated to other watersheds.

Ross Reels’ funding for this project will go directly toward the construction of a concrete fish barrier that will provide both a vertical barrier and a velocity barrier for preventing upstream passage of invasive fish.

Because this project is on US Forest Service land and adjacent to critical infrastructure (a road and gas pipeline) there are also bank stabilization elements immediately upstream of the proposed barrier location. The bank here is currently protected by rock-filled gabion baskets, which are in poor condition. The proposed project includes 140 linear feet of articulated concrete matting and 45 linear feet of riprap. The proposed bank stabilization BMP’s will protect NFSR 844 – Clear Fork Road and an existing natural gas line buried along the road.”

Flylords: What are some of the challenges that these trout face that this project is looking to aid in fighting?

Kyle: “The main challenges that these trout face are competition for resources with non-native trout and hybridization with rainbow trout. Other issues include climate change and extreme weather events. The existing natural fish barriers protecting CRCT are vulnerable to being washed out in a flood event. Increased fire threats resulting in ash and debris flows, could also hamper efforts. In addition, aridification and dewatering are challenges.”

Flylords: How can people become more involved with projects like this outside of buying a pretty fly reel? 

Kyle: “One of the best ways to help with these projects outside of funding, is to volunteer. There are so many fun opportunities we offer, and there’s nothing like feeling the accomplishment of introducing native fish to Colorado. Years ago, I volunteered to reintroduce the first greenback cutthroat to Herman Gulch. Now, those fish are reproducing. You can volunteer for the Poudre Headwaters Project at https://rmftu.org/php and other projects at https://coloradotu.org/volunteer.

Flylords: what has been your favorite “Win” to see from the native series project thus far? 

Kyle: “While the project is still young and funds haven’t quite been utilized, I would say the biggest win so far is simply knowing the industry recognizes the effort it takes to restore and protect native trout. We value Mayfly Outdoors’ commitment to these projects, as well as everyone who purchases one of these limited edition reels.”

Thank you to Kyle for your valuable insights and time. If you’re looking to learn more about Trout Unlimited and its volunteer initiatives across the country, check out their website, HERE.

Native Series Giveaway

Want to win one of the new Colorado Cutthroat Native Reels from Ross Reels, along with an awesome assortment of additional prizes? Enter the Native Series Giveaway! Details below:

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Video of the Week: Big Water, Big Fish with Huge Fly Fisherman

Landen German
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Video of the Week: Big Water, Big Fish with Huge Fly Fisherman

In this Week’s Video of the Week, we catch up with the one and only Ben Sittig from Huge Fly Fisherman in the most recent long-form video from his 3-day float trip. They set out on a high water stretch searching for big fish on salmon flies. Within the first 1/4 mile of the trip they hook into an absolute stud on the dry which sets the tone for an epic trip! So sit down and enjoy an epic Huge Fly Fisherman video with some great comradery, eats, and beer!

From humor to ethics, to great storytelling, Ben has built an awesome community for the Huge Fly Fisherman crew of the world. If you haven’t already checked out his channel we highly recommend you do! As Ben would say relax it’s just fishing and Stay Huge!

Check out these epic articles as well!

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Angler Story of the Week: Fly Fishing For Red Kaloi

Angus Line
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Angler Story of the Week: Fly Fishing For Red Kaloi

I had seen photos and heard whispers of a beastly-looking freshwater creature with the head of a bumpy, the intelligence of a dog, and enough power to snap fly lines like nothing else. Intrigued but skeptical, I thought this sounded like a trip I needed to take. With limited information due to only a small number having been caught, I asked the small group of anglers who were lucky enough to experience this mythical juggernaut. To say the least, this only grew my interest even more; every story was different. From a subtle, gentle sip followed by an intense and relentless battle to a fast and ferocious inhale within milliseconds of the fly landing. All of these stories entailed a common theme: hooking the fish was only going to be half of the struggle.

I had seen rods turned from 4 pieces into 6, 60-70lb leaders snapped, fly lines seemingly blown up, and hooks bent in all kinds of ways. Of course, this played tricks on the mind; do you fish them light and see what happens, or do you bring the heavy stuff and tussle it out hand to hand? As you can imagine, the decision was to pack more rods than I would ever need.

Once we had embarked on this journey, it took approximately 3 days from when we left Perth, Western Australia, to when our flies first touched the water. Due to the remote nature of this expedition, there was a substantial amount of logistics and travel involved, all organized by our guide Fajar, a well-known figure in the Indonesian fly fishing community. This included three flights, two hotel stays, and a 10-hour 4X4 trip out into the jungle. The drive could drastically change due to the weather. In the heart of the rainforest, you are completely at the mercy of its forever-changing conditions, which means that road flooding and degradation of tracks are very common. After some great recoveries, a broken CV joint, and endless mud hole crossings, we finally arrived, and the Dayak people of the local village began to set up our camp. These guys were serious masters of bushcraft. Within a short period, they had created a large wooden structure covered by a tarp, a kitchen, and tents for us to sleep in. This was no 5-star hotel trip; this was a real jungle mission, so you must be prepared to be uncomfortable.

We had a few casts before sunset that consisted of two Kaloi strikes. One a large female and the other a nice Bull (male). Both were completely different in the way they attacked the fly. This was my first taste of how ferocious and gentle these fish could be. I believe this is one of the many reasons why they are so hard to hook. You are constantly waiting in anticipation for a massive boof and a quick eat when all of a sudden, a pink face slowly emerges from the tannin water, only to gently sip the fly down without creating a ripple. It is very hard to go from an extremely fast eat to a very slow one from one fish to the next. This meant it took a good minute to get into the rhythm of these fish. The fishing is not really blind casting; I would call it more strategic casting. We cast at suitable structures for the Kaloi, so you are not always making casts randomly. They like slow pools after a fast run or piles of logs where they can watch potential food float over. They can also be sight-casted on occasions when they are in the shallows or on the surface eating fruits or insects.

The next day we set out again on the long boats and went around 1.2 hours upstream. The boats are traditional wooden long boats used by the Dayaks. There are no $100,000 skiffs in this part of the world, and that only adds to the experience. This day, we had the highest strike rate out of any of the days; my partner Paris and I both had around 5 hits each throughout the day. I would say the average was around 2-3 per day. Now we had really felt the power of this fish! I can only explain it as hooking into a GT that has low range 4×4 gears and is already in the reef. These fish don’t want to do big long runs, but they do want to get right back under their log and quickly. You have to be ready to battle it out at any moment. In the rainforest, every inch of water is occupied by Vines, fallen trees, and snags of all descriptions; this means letting the fish have 1 inch could be disastrous.

Kaloi are anatomically designed to eat from the surface with their upturned mouth and big 360-degree viewing eyes, so you will be fishing mostly dry flies and poppers. I know it sounds weird, but yes, we fished dry flies on 10wt rods with 60lb leaders. The fly of choice for us was recommended by the pioneers of Kaloi fishing, Fajar Setyawan, and Minggaang Lejau. It is the BBC (Big Black Cockroach). This fly resembles a native flying Cockroach that the Kaloi seemingly love to eat. When casting the fly, we have to break a few traditional fly fishing rules and adapt to the species. A wide loop style of casting is a necessity here. The fish is very reactive to plops and slaps on the water, whether that be a fruit falling or a big terrestrial insect that missed its landing. Opening your loop allows the fly to slap down hard, creating a loud plop. Remember the water here is heavy in tannin, so the fish rely a lot on vibrations and sounds.

After a few great tussles and some serious heartbreaks, we returned to camp on the first afternoon. We jumped out of the boat and grabbed our gear, but I didn’t feel like I was done, so we quickly convinced Fajar and two of our boatmen to take us up another stretch before the sun was too low over the jungle canopy.

The light was fading fast, as it does out here, and we were just about to start making our way back when I made a short cast along a seemingly nondescript section of the bank. Instantaneously, a pink face rose from the dark water and stopped right underneath my fly. The fish watched the fly drift for around 10 seconds before it ever so gently sipped the fly down, and with a hard strip, buried the hook into its top lip. Another battle ensued! My Scott Sector got the beating of its life, creaking and bending in all directions as the fish tried everything to ensure that I would have a sleepless night. Running underneath the boat, getting tangled three times in roots and vines, it certainly let me know that it was the real deal, an almost unobtainable beast of the jungle. After several minutes of what can only be described as “scrapping it out,” I finally got the upper hand and managed to coerce the fish to the bank, becoming the 8th person to land a bull Kaloi on a fly. Oh, what a feeling!

This has to be one of the strangest and most unique-looking fish I have had the pleasure of catching. A huge bump head, a massive bottom jaw full of sharp teeth, barbels, and a body built like a rowing paddle. This fish is designed to be a fly fisher’s dream and nightmare; Kaloi have everything that a fly fisher is looking.

Angler Story of the Week from Angus Line, be sure to check out more of their story on Instagram @fly_fishing_outfitters. If you’re interested in this trip reach Angus at info@flyfishingoutfitters.com.au.

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Russian Federation Announces Wild Salmon Center As “Undesirable Organization”

Nelson Oxley
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Russian Federation Announces Wild Salmon Center As “Undesirable Organization”

From the Wild Salmon Center (WSC):

The Wild Salmon Center (WSC) is the leading group working with scientists, governments, and local people to protect wild salmon strongholds—the healthiest remaining wild salmon rivers around the entire North Pacific. Wild salmon know no borders. And because of that, the WSC work across four nations: from the U.S. Pacific Northwest, through British Columbia, Canada, the U.S. State of Alaska, and across to the Russian Far East and Japan.

A few days ago, the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Russian Federation announced that the Wild Salmon Center has now been designated as an “undesirable organization.” This now means that it is against the law for Russian organizations and individuals to work with WSC.

The WSC has made big research efforts in support of taimen and steelhead in the Russian Far East. The WSC has also supported Russian fisherman as well through the Marine Stewardship Council to improve practices in order to access international markets. From the WSC, “Wild Salmon Center employees have never participated in the political process nor worked to block economic development in the Russian Far East.” 

Stay tuned as the story unfolds. Be sure to check out the full release from the WSC by clicking here. Check out what the WSC is all about by clicking here. 

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Pickup Truck Ends Up In The River – Check Out What They Find Inside

Nelson Oxley
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Pickup Truck Ends Up In The River – Check Out What They Find Inside

A note from Scott Hood:

“We came across this truck unexpectedly in the middle of the river which was quite the scene to watch and see what happened.”

“My daughter and son in law and our two grandkids were there visiting friends and we were invited to come up and spend the weekend with them over the fourth of July. This particular spot is a popular hangout for beach parties, picnics on the sand and gravel bars, tent setups, swimming, fishing, and simply enjoying the beauty of the river.”

“In this area, there’s a road leading down to the river and what appears to be a bike trail near the other side. I never had a chance to speak to the driver, so I couldn’t determine who it was. It remained unclear who was driving or their intention behind it.”

“Presumably, the driver tried to drive across the river. I believe they had driven up to the water’s edge, stepped out to assess the situation and determine if it was passable. During that time, the truck might have accidentally rolled into the river. It’s uncertain whether they forgot to put the vehicle in park or if their intention was to cross to the other side.”

“After parking our car and exploring the area, we noticed another 4-wheel-drive pickup truck attempting to tow the stranded vehicle out. The people on the scene were willing to help, but they didn’t have the necessary equipment or wheel chocks for the rescue operation. They attempted to use a strap and a few chains, but the truck’s wheels only spun, and there was minimal progress. Meanwhile, the submerged truck continued to sink deeper into the river.”

“Due to the swift current, the individuals trying to recover the Tacoma eventually gave up as it became too dangerous. Everyone present wondered what would happen next as the water slowly consumed the front tires of the Tacoma, causing it to sink further. Just then, the tow truck arrived, and the tow operators quickly became the heroes of the day.”

“The tow truck backed up, securely chocked the wheels, and employed a block and tackle winch. The tow truck operator even stripped down to his bare minimum to navigate through the water. He connected the winch to the back of the axle, swam around to enter the car through the window (where we spotted fish swimming near the dashboard), and found himself submerged up to his neck in the cab of the Tacoma. The tow truck operator shifted the vehicle out of park, climbed onto the hood, and signaled to the other operator to start pulling the truck out of the river.”

“Gradually, they managed to rescue the submerged truck, and the entire ordeal was quite a spectacle. There were around 25-30 people gathered on the bridge, captivated by the unfolding events.”

“Various items floated around inside the cab, and with the windows down, everyone would chat or shout when one of those items drifted downstream. The whole scene was rather bizarre. For the individuals attempting to cross the river (if that was indeed their goal), they faced the consequences of underestimating the force of the river. The truck is out of the water and the people are safe.”

Words and photos from Scott Hood @okflyfishguy, Scott is a former President of Oklahoma Trout Unlimited Chapter #420. Scott has had many roles within Trout Unlimited. Currently Hood is the Youth and Adult Ed Coordinator, Current Oklahoma Council of TU/NLC. Hood is a Past member of the Board of Trustee’s Trout Unlimited. 

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Low Flows & Hot Water: What To Know About Summer Fly Fishing

Nelson Oxley
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Low Flows & Hot Water: What To Know About Summer Fly Fishing

As we move into the dog days of summer, most times freshwater fisherman experience lower flows and hotter water. Fly fishing in low flows and warm water conditions can present unique challenges for anglers. As water levels drop and temperatures rise, fish behavior changes, making it crucial to adapt your tactics and approach. In this article, we will explore strategies for successfully fly fishing during lower flows and mention when water temperatures exceed 68 degrees Fahrenheit when to fish and when not to fish.

Understanding Low Flows and Warm Water Conditions

What Happens When Water Temps Reach Above 68 Degrees

Strategies for Fly Fishing Low Flows

Strategies To Stay Away From Hot Water & When To Stop Fishing

Check Out Other Species To Target

Understanding Low Flows and Warm Water Conditions

Low flows occur when rivers, streams, or creeks experience reduced water levels, often due to drought, irrigation demands, or seasonal fluctuations. Most times in the mountain west we see this happen with freestone rivers (rivers fed by snowmelt and smaller tributaries). These conditions can concentrate fish in smaller areas and make them more wary and selective when feeding. On the other hand, warm water conditions can affect fish metabolism and oxygen levels, potentially reducing their feeding activity and putting them under stress. Typically, in mid to late summer, some water temps on freestone rivers will breach 68 degrees, where if these fish are caught they might have a tough time swimming away.

What Happens To Trout When Water Temps Reach Above 68 Degrees

Before your outing, make sure to pick up a stream-side thermometer or pick one up at your local fly shop. The best practice in low flows is to take a water temp with a stream-side thermometer to double check where you’re at. If the water temperature is below 65 degrees you know you’re in the clear to embark on your journey. It is ok to fish in water just over 65 degrees, but typically once it reaches above 66-67 degrees fahrenheit you should call it quits.

The biggest reason behind calling it quits when water temps reach over 68 degrees is because oxygen levels decrease. Trout at this point will still eat your flies; however, when these fish get to this point, they may not revive and might die off after you catch them within these conditions. Check out the few reasons why this happens below:

  1. Increased Stress: Warm water conditions put additional stress on trout. The combination of elevated water temperature and the physical stress of being caught can lead to exhaustion and reduced energy reserves. Trout may struggle to recover from the stress of being hooked and fought, making them more susceptible to injury or disease.
  2. Reduced Oxygen Levels: Warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen than colder water. As a result, trout may struggle to obtain sufficient oxygen to meet their metabolic needs. This can weaken them and make them more vulnerable to predation, infections, and other stressors.
  3. Decreased Feeding Activity: Trout’s metabolism slows down in warmer water, leading to a decrease in their appetite. They become less inclined to actively feed, making it more challenging to entice them with flies or other bait.
  4. Limited Habitat Options: Trout seek out areas with cooler water when faced with warm conditions. In rivers and streams, they may concentrate in deeper pools, undercuts, areas with colder inflows, or near channels that hold more whitewater or oxygen. This can result in increased competition for these limited habitats, which may further stress the fish and affect their behavior.
  5. Increased Susceptibility to Disease: Warm water can promote the growth of harmful bacteria, parasites, and fungi, which can negatively impact trout health. When caught and handled in warm water, trout may suffer from open wounds or damaged fins, providing entry points for infections and diseases.

If you’re in a location that is below 68 degrees, approach the water cautiously, keeping a low profile and avoiding sudden movements. Stay back from the bank and use longer casts to minimize the chances of disturbing the fish.

Insect activity becomes even more critical when fishing in lower flows. Spend time observing the water and the insects present. Match your fly selection to the prevalent hatches and focus on imitating the natural food sources available to the fish. if you’re unsure, always be sure to stop by your local fly shop for fishing tips, techniques, and advice from local guides. Never fish for trout in water above 68 degrees!

Strategies for Fly Fishing Low Flows

A key strategy for fishing lower flows is to first check on your location with online knowledge from the United States Geological Survey site, known as “USGS.” Most rivers and streams have USGS flow meters that track information like water temperature, cubic feet per second, turbidity, pH levels, and precipitation that flow in. If you haven’t checked your favorite spot on flows or water temperature, simply search in Google “water temperatures at…” or “cubic feet per second (CFS) at…” to get the knowledge you need before your outing.

  1. Rope Up: Rope up with heavier tippet to land the fish quicker. Keep them wet and skip the pictures to minimize their time out of the water.
  2. Check USGS: Check USGS to get real-time data on flows, temperatures, cubic feet per second, turbidity, pH levels, and more.
  3. Keep ’em wet: If you’ve gotten to this point and the water is breaching 65 degrees, keep the fish wet and practice catch-and-release.

When it comes to photography, be sure to keep the fish in the water even when the water temperatures are below 68 degrees. Most times in the summer months, fish can be stressed due to lower oxygen levels during the hottest months of the year. If you’re looking for a grip and grin, get your hands wet and think twice before taking that fish out of the water. If you’re the one that loves taking photos, look into the AxisGo housings made for iPhones by clicking HERE.

Also be sure to get a stream-side thermometer by clicking HERE!

Strategies To Stay Away From Hot Water & When To Stop Fishing:

Photo from Dan Towsley

One thing to examine before fishing is to determine the right area to fish, and check the flows, turbidity, and temperatures before embarking on an angling journey. Fish early or late in the day (before water temps exceed 68 degrees, and when temps drop below 68 degrees). When water temperatures rise, fish are more active during cooler parts of the day. Plan your fishing trips for early mornings or late evenings. This way, you can take advantage of the fish’s increased activity levels and make sure they can be released safely.

Be sure to choose the right locations. Look for areas where the water is cooler, such as shaded sections, deep pools, or areas with natural springs or inflows. These areas often provide refuge for fish during warmer periods. Additionally, larger bodies of water, such as reservoirs or tailwaters, may have cooler water releases from deeper depths, attracting fish, and would be a better option than fishing sections that have hot water.

Practice Catch-and-Release: Warm water conditions put additional stress on fish, and their survival rate after being caught decreases. Consider practicing catch-and-release to minimize the impact on fish populations and their overall health during these challenging conditions and be sure to Keep Fish Wet.

Check Out Other Species To Target

Even if you’re an experienced trout angler, chances are there are other species in proximity to where you live and are just as fun to catch on the fly. Fly fishing for most is about the exploration, fishing new water, and learning about fish behavior, so why not try and target a new species? If trout fishing is not an option, consider fishing for carp or bass. These species are very fun to catch on the fly and can be “another ball game” to most anglers. Be sure to check in with your local fly shop or check out the articles below to learn more about other freshwater species to target on the fly.

Article from Nelson Oxley. Graphic from Trout Unlimited. Get your stream-side thermometer by clicking HERE.

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Reel of the Week: In Search of Risers With Dad

Nelson Oxley
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Reel of the Week: In Search of Risers With Dad

A note from @fly__high_eli:

“This small clip is really a culmination of many hours together on the water where Isla has learned how to read water, how to cast a dry fly, and how to present the dry fly. More than anything we’ve learned to communicate and trust each other.”

“Be willing to sacrifice your time, success, materials, and perfect conditions for their struggles, which will ultimately allow them to gain experience. Kids don’t care about what we care about. They just want someone to care about them and encourage them. One day you’ll look up and they will perfectly present a dry fly to a rising fish and all the struggles will have made perfect sense.”

Reel of the Week from @fly__high_eli, be sure to check out Eli’s Instagram by clicking HERE.

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