That right the month of March is here and as they say things are a changing! As the weather changes in March we need to make sure of a few things when going out to fly fish, so let’s get into it!

As March is about as unpredictable as a Texas Hold ‘em poker game, make sure you are prepared to make changes daily. Be sure to check daily forecast specifically temperature, and precipitation to optimize those days out on the water. As this is the beginning phase for seasonal transitions, the fish will also start to transition in what they are looking to eat. Warmer days means warmer water, and warmer water means more activity from trout. When you arrive to whatever fishing hole you desire, take a minute and watch the water. What do you see? Hopefully some small surface activity, maybe even some early hatches.

Here are a few fly patterns to use for success in the month of March. Midges are present year round and in early spring depending on when that shows up in your neck of the woods these are incredibly important insects. Pair this with small black stoneflies, and these can be just as effective on the water, especially near rocks. The blue winged olives or BWO as many people call it are already starting to show up in the Mid-Atlantic states. Warm days have fish going after these tiny flies the minutes they get close to the water. A size 16-18 is perfect for this time of the year. You can’t go wrong with none other than the March Brown Nymphs since this represent the nymph stage of the March Brown Mayfly. Lastly as fish are becoming more active, which means throw those streamers that imitate baitfish. The clouser, slumpbuster, zonker and my personal favorite woolly bugger are great patterns to use.

Watch the water levels and adjust accordingly. If you have fast moving water, think about getting flies that have tungsten beads to get them to the bottom. Slow moving water, brass ones will suffice. Adjusting tippet length can also help to not to spook fish. Keep a journal and write down the changes you see on the river for what is working wand what is’t. aThis will help make every March successful. Tight lines!