Flies - Eggs

For fall fly fishing, not just any type of fly will do. In rivers and streams, water temperatures, levels, and clarity begin to change, triggering a mass migration of fish for spawning. This huge amount of fish in small proximities makes for some of the best fly fishing of the entire year. During this time, these river fish begin mainly eating eggs, so presenting egg flies to them will make for a productive and exciting day of fishing.

It may seem so simple, but it’s the truth - natural eggs that come from spawning fish are the main source of nutrition for trout and salmon during the spawning season. So what better way to catch them than by using egg flies? The real eggs contain all of the necessary nutrients for sustaining life, including protein and carbohydrates that also help to fatten the fish quickly, making them irresistible to hungry spawning fish.

Fly fishing with eggs can be done with any rod and reel combination, but be sure to make the proper adjustments to better your likelihood of success. 8 ½ to 9 foot 6-weight fly rods will be ideal for fishing with eggs, while heavier rods are obviously better for areas that are known to have fish that are large and tough. Be sure to also tailor your leader length to the size of the water that you’re planning to fish on. 9 foot leaders are all-around a good choice, while 7 foot leaders are better for smaller and calmer areas.

Eggs from spawning fish come in many different sizes, shapes, and colors - so be sure to stock up on a variety of egg flies. While rainbow trout eggs and steelhead and Coho eggs are small and yellowish-orange, Chinook eggs are larger, and brown trout eggs are bright orange. Unfertilized eggs become a murky, whitish color. Imitating these different egg types are worth the time for serious fly fishermen. So what are you waiting for? Stock up and hit the water today!