Spring Fishing with Nymphs

(Donnie “Cookster” Cooke photo)

Mayfly nymphs are divided into four types: burrower, swimmer, clamberer and clinger. The names describe their stream manners. In cooler spring weather, before the first mayflies hatch, these and other nymphs are dislodged by heavy currents as rocks, logs and ice are tumbled along the bottom of the stream. The nymphs are washed along the stream bottom where trout are hungrily awaiting them.

(Donnie “Cookster” Cooke photo)

Two things to look for when trout are feeding on nymphs: tailing and bulging.

A trout’s tail protruding above the water’s surface in medium-fast water of a shallow run means that their feeding on deep drifting nymphs. To catch them, fish with two or three live, or imitation nymphs, weighted to drift deep.

Bulging occurs as nymphs rise to the surface to hatch in calmer waters. Look for a fin or swirled water. To catch them, fish with a drifted nymph or wet fly.

(Donnie “Cookster” Cooke photo)

Remember when fishing for trout in early spring keep your imitation nymph on the bottom, bouncing along off rocks, logs, into holes, etc.

(Donnie “Cookster” Cooke photo)

Set the hook when you feel a tug or line acts strangely. I can't say it enough, jerk regardless if it’s a fish or not. If you get hung up, no big deal, but it could be that big boy were all looking for.