Weekly River & Hatches Update
April signals the long-awaited return to the river! You are straining at the leash after months of confinement and there are new rods, lines, flies and assorted kit to be tried out for the first time. Successful fishing relies on stealth and matching the sporadic hatches, usually peaking between 10 am and 3 pm.
Weather:
Changeable conditions are expected in the coming week. Expect rain showers and strong winds, interspersed with dry spells - especially across the Southeast. Seek shelter across the river bank in high winds, which might make casting a little more challenging. Sunrise 06:43 Sunset 19:38 High Pollen, High UV, Low Pollution
River Flows:
River flows are currently rated normal to above normal by the Environment Agency. The recent rain has had some effect, but it’s the recharged aquifers from the wet winter we have had that continue to define conditions, great for water clarity, though riverbanks may still be rather soggy. So don’t forget your boots!
Hatches:
Again Large Dark Olive, Grannom caddis, and possibly some early Hawthorn will predominate hatches this week, as they will for much of April.
Fly Patterns:
Time to get out those Dry Flies: Parachute Adams (14-20), BWO CDC, March Brown spiders, Elk Hair Caddis. If you are early season Nymphing, try a classic Pheasant Tail (size 14-18) or a Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear.
Our Seasonal tips:
If this is your first trip of the season, take a moment to go over your gear before heading out. Clean and check your reel and fly line, rod, waders and glasses. Also be prepared for every weather eventuality. April = showers! Try and be adaptable- in cooler temperatures it may be more challenging to tempt trout so be ready to swap tactics when things aren’t working. It's always worth taking a moment to slow down and observe the river life.
News, events and catch reports:
