November has arrived and that means tail-water fishermen should have plenty of tiny midges and blue wing olive imitations in their boxes. Anglers should be looking for blue wing hatches coming off in the afternoon, while the midges are more consistent throughout the day.
A good selection of BWO Parachute and Emerger patterns in sizes 18-24 can make the difference between a great day and a slow day on the water this time of year.
To target fish feeding on Diptera Midges, carry midge patterns such as Brassies, Zebras (various colors), Biot Midges, Red Larvae, and Griffith’s Gnats ranging in size from 18-24.
Big nasty streamers are also a must for fishermen targeting big browns, so be sure to have some weighted zonker-strip streamers in your vest or pack. Most importantly, pay attention to what’s happening on the river and you will be more successful.
For those fishing the small wild trout and delayed harvest streams, a variety of smaller attracter nymphs and midges are recommended. FB Pheasant tails, Micro Mayflies, Hare’s Ears, Wiggle Nymphs, Zebra Midges, and Copper Johns in sizes 16-20 should all be in your box when you hit the water.
Fish two fly rigs with a leading bead-head nymph and an emerger, midge, or un-weighted nymph as the trailer fly. As always, presentation and stealth are just as important as fly selection if you are fishing small streams.