Much of the northeast has experienced above average rainfall throughout the spring. As for western New York April saw record levels of rain keeping our steelhead streams in an un-fishable state for a good portion of the month. But for many April is also trout time. The high water has created perfect streamer and large nymph conditions on many streams as the higher water allows fish to feel more comfortable away from tight cover.
High water can have a significant impact on dry fly fishing. The heavier surface tensions of higher flows can deter trout from feeding on the surface even during a solid hatch. Fish may be positioned in different areas of a pool or run than under normal flows. Trout will often search out softer flows along seam lines or tail outs. Collection points where multiple seams converge can create a concentration of bugs that allow a trout to feed heavily balancing the extra energy required to counteract the substantial flows.
High water can have a significant impact on dry fly fishing. The heavier surface tensions of higher flows can deter trout from feeding on the surface even during a solid hatch. Fish may be positioned in different areas of a pool or run than under normal flows. Trout will often search out softer flows along seam lines or tail outs. Collection points where multiple seams converge can create a concentration of bugs that allow a trout to feed heavily balancing the extra energy required to counteract the substantial flows.
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