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Use a pattern that
matches the available insects--not an attractor pattern |
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Check the order of the hatching insects--don't fish a caddis pattern in the middle of a Mayfly hatch |
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Check the size--its very easy to be a couple of sizes too big |
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Check the color--make sure you are close to the color of the hatch |
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Use a fly with less hackle--or trim some off the pattern you are using, just enough to float the fly |
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Go to a finer tippit |
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Add some Zinc to the tippit--this will sink just under the surface |
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Straighten the tippit |
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Lengthen your leader - sometimes you need more space between the line and the leader. Twelve-fifteen-eighteen foot leaders are a pain to cast but work |
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Watch for drag - if the current is tricky you may need to change your casting position, cast shorter, use a finer tippet. Sometimes drag problems can't be fixed, move on |
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Check for a multiple hatch - you may be casting the wrong pattern |
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Switch to a nymph - or another wet if you are fishing dry |
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Stop casting for awhile - stop and smell the roses, let the fish adjust to your presence |
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Seek out riffled water - when the water is clear the fish can see everything, in choppy riffled water it's harder for them to see |
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Are there a lot of people around you - if the water near you has been hammered for hours then move on |
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Fish a different fly - it never hurts to be different |
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Wade out to get a sample of the hatch - not recommended when you're in the midst of a biker flyfishing convention |
