So it is going to be hot and you want to going fishing. To be successful on these days you need to plan accordingly because if you don’t, well in simple terms it is going to be miserable for you.  Here are a tips and strategies that I have used to be successful.

First, you have two options. Are you fishing in the morning or in the evening. Figuring this part out should be easy. Do you want to wake up early or not? In the early morning and the late evening water temperatures are ideal and fish are a lot more active and hungry. 

Before you cast your first line into the water there are a few things you should know. Trout  most actively feed at certain water temperatures. The optimum temperature for trout feeding is between 52-64 degrees. So check the water to see where the temp is at and also look to see what is happening on the surface and below it. (That doesn’t mean stick your head under the water). Pick up some rocks and see what is drawing on them. Try and match the hatch as they say. 

In the early morning try using streamers ( my favorite is a Kreelex or hot headed wooly bugger) or nymphs (Blowtorch or caddies larva pattern in green) since trout try and feed below the surface early on. As the morning progresses and you see some surface activity try using dry flies such as elk hair caddis.

I mentioned that the day was going to hot correct? Fish want water that is cool, and has high oxygen so make sure to seek out deep pools or areas that are shaded under trees or large rocks. To get those flies down try using a tungsten bead on your fly. The weight will help drive the fly into their area for them to strike at. You have to be patient because due to hot weather, even though they are in a good place, they will still be very cautious and selective. A smaller flies will look a lot more natural and less intimidating.

Small patterns also means you should be using a tippet that is lighter and a lot longer to not only reduce visibility but also to not spook fish. Fish are extremely selective as described before so you need every advantage you can get.

While fishing in low and very clear water be sure to move slowly and cast for distance. This gives you the advantage to not spook fish. If you decide to use terrestrials (ants, beetles or small hoppers) these are very effective in slow moving water under trees. Fish are used to seeing these and will expend the energy to go after one if presented right.

All in all plan accordingly and use some of the tips that have been provided to make your day out on the river a great one. Tight lines!