In late summer when it’s hot and dry, trout fishing possibilities are limited. Trout are rarely active when the sun and the heat is high. It’s not impossible to catch them, though, especially if you restrict your activity to the evenings.
As it cools down and the sun is lower, it becomes possible to find trout and grayling, actively feeding on the surface. But it’s a waiting game like few others. The water is often quite low and very clear. If you don’t move very slowly, stalk softly and keep low, you will ruin most of your chances.
In the evenings it’s sometimes possible to find a hatch of Blue Winged Olives. Small, olive mayflies – in the size 14-16 range. In the low water trout sometimes feed and cruise just under the surface, so precise casting is imperative. I try to get as close to a rising fish as I dare to make a precise cast easier. In most cases it’s also a one-shot-chance-game because of the low, clear water. If you miss or spook a fish, take note of the position – you’ll often be able to find it feeding again a little later.
The small flies require a thin leader to make a proper presentation and every so often, you’ll encounter risers tight against the bank, so come well equipped and expect to lose some flies. Don’t go home too early, rising fish can be found almost until sundown.
The Wicked or Stefan Larsson is a real trout-bum and dryfly expert – have a look at him tying of his favorite parachute patterns for imitating the blue winged olive – his Olive Molly here.
And if you want more of Stefan – check out this little portrait we have done aboput him and his passion for trout and dryflies.