Caddis
Caddis are the most widely distributed aquatic insects in trout streams. Unlike mayflies they flutter and skitter across the surface, which means your presentation can and should be active. Evening caddis hatches in late spring can produce some of the most explosive surface fishing of the year.
Top fly patterns
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Month-by-month activity
Number of rivers where the Caddis hatch is active each month.
Rivers where Caddis hatches
How to fish the Caddis
Swing a soft-hackle wet fly through likely holding water in the late afternoon. On the surface, an Elk Hair Caddis skittered or with a slight drag works. Sub-surface, a Sparkle Pupa dead-drifted near the bottom is deadly during peak emergence.
Frequently asked
When does the Caddis hatch?
Peak emergence: April, May, June, July, August, September. Timing varies by elevation, latitude, and water temperature.
What flies match the Caddis hatch?
Top patterns: Elk Hair Caddis (size 12-16); Stimulator (size 10-14); Hare's Ear Nymph (size 12-18); Soft Hackle (Partridge & Orange) (size 12-16); Sparkle Pupa (LaFontaine) (size 14-18).
What rivers have a good Caddis hatch?
Caddis hatches are documented on 50 rivers including: Farmington River, Housatonic River, Salmon River, Willimantic River, Naugatuck River and 45 more.
How do I fish the Caddis hatch?
Swing a soft-hackle wet fly through likely holding water in the late afternoon. On the surface, an Elk Hair Caddis skittered or with a slight drag works. Sub-surface, a Sparkle Pupa dead-drifted near the bottom is deadly during peak emergence.
What is the Caddis?
Caddis are the most widely distributed aquatic insects in trout streams. Unlike mayflies they flutter and skitter across the surface, which means your presentation can and should be active. Evening caddis hatches in late spring can produce some of the most explosive surface fishing of the year. Family: Caddisfly (Trichoptera).
Related
Fly recommender · All hatches · All fly patterns · All rivers