Weekly River & Hatches Update
Mayfly madness. Duffer’s fortnight. Call it what you will but May is one of the most spectacular months of the year to visit the chalkstreams when the Mayfly hatches drift across the river like gun smoke. This is classic dry-fly fishing at its finest. Get ready for the feeding frenzy!
Weather:
It looks like a fairly quiet start for May, with plenty of dry spells around—good news for getting out on the water! That said, it’s unlikely to stay as warm and settled as it has been lately, so expect a mix of brighter periods and the odd shower drifting through- heavy at times. Temperatures are likely to be close to normal, with highs of 18 degrees c.
Pollen: Low to Moderate UV: Moderate L: Pollution
River Flows:
According to the Environment Agency, river levels are currently normal and conditions are excellent—though a touch more rain would certainly be welcome.
Hatches:
Mayfly, mayfly, mayfly — the majestic spectacle returns! The highlight of the season is here, bringing explosive surface action and unforgettable dry-fly fishing.
Alongside the main event, keep an eye out for consistent hatches of Iron Blue, Hawthorn, and Black Gnats, all providing excellent opportunities throughout May.
Fly Patterns:
Match the hatch! These are the four main groups of Mayfly to be found on the chalkstreams during May. The mayfly life cycle is key to understanding how to fish it.
Nymph: Walkers Mayfly size 12
Dun: Thomas’s Mayfly 8-10, French Partridge 10-12, Grey Wulff 8-10
Spinner : Spent Mayfly 10
Our Seasonal tips:
Mayfly patterns are heavy, bulky and wind resistant. Getting them to ‘turn over’, especially in wind can be difficult so use a 5lb tippet as a very minimum.
In that week or more that runs up to the Mayfly don’t get fooled into thinking the trout are just hanging around in anticipation – believe me after a long winter they are hungry for the right offering. Delicate presentation is key!
News, events and catch reports:
