Mastering Spring Runoff on the Fly

Spring runoff can be both a challenging and rewarding time for fly fisher. The surge of water from melting snow and heavy rains creates fast currents and murky waters, making it essential to adapt your techniques and tactics in order to maximize your chances for success. Here are some strategies to keep in mind if you plan on wetting a line during the spring runoff:   

Choose the Right Location:   

• Look for rivers with slower sections, eddies, beaver ponds, and backwaters that provide refuge for fish during high water flows.  

• Focus on smaller tributaries or tailwaters, which tend to have less runoff and better clarity.  

 Observe Water Conditions:   

• Get in the habit of monitoring flows using Ascent Fly Fishing’s River Report tool to check flows before you go (https://ascentflyfishing.com/colorado-stream-flows/). Choose your state, scroll down to find your target water, and then click on the gauging station where you want to fish to see up to the minute flows and forecasts. 

• Avoid fishing during extreme runoff periods when rivers are dangerously high or unfishable due to excessive sediment.  

 Adapt Your Equipment:   

• Size up- choose heavier and larger flies that can drop through the faster currents and be seen by fish in the murky runoff waters.  

• Use sinking lines or tungsten weighted flies to get your presentation deeper in the water column.  

• Consider using heavier tippet and leaders to handle larger fish and prevent break-offs in swift currents.  

 Try Fishing Streamers:   

• Streamers are highly effective during spring runoff as they mimic minnows, leeches, and crayfish that have been dislodged by the current, while their larger profiles make them visible through the haze of runoff.  

• Choose streamers in colors that contrast with the color of the water, such as white, chartreuse, or black.  

 Catch more fish Nymphing:   

• Use 2-3 fly nymphing rigs to target fish seeking shelter in calmer areas or behind obstructions.  

• Select heavily weighted nymph patterns that can sink quickly and stay near the bottom despite the fast currents. 

• Use indicator rigs or tight line techniques to detect subtle strikes in turbid water conditions.  

 Explore the Edges:  

• Concentrate your efforts along the edges of the main current where fish seek refuge from the fast-flowing water.  

• Target slower-moving water near banks, submerged structure, and fallen trees as potential hotspots for trout.  

 Stay Safe & Fish Another Day:   

• Try to fish from the shore as much as possible and only wade with extreme caution during runoff.  Few trout are worth swimming for and none are worth dying for! 

• Make sure that your wading belt is sinched firm and use a wading staff to assist with stability when wading.  

By following these tips and adapting your approach to the unique challenges of spring runoff, you can increase your chances of a successful and safe trip to the river. Embrace the changing challenge, be patient, and don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques until you find what works best!