My Fall Fly Fishing Ritual

by Douglas Erickson

There are a few things I always check before heading out to chase those fall trout: my flies, my clothing, and when & where I’ll fish. Let's jump straight into it—starting with what matters most… well, almost.

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1. What I Tie (and Why It Matters)

I kick off my fall prep by tying a solid lineup of flies—starting with fall caddis (one of the first patterns many tiers learn) and moving on to streamers. It’s bulking season for trout—they’re feeding hard to pack on weight—and big flies equal big bites.

I favor deeper, dusk-ready hues: dark blue, purple, black. I’ll also toss in egg patterns, which are irresistible when trout are focused on spawning or guarding beds.

2. Clothing: Stay Warm, Stay Upright

Extra Socks Are Non-Negotiable

I can’t stress this enough—pack extra thick socks in your wading pack. When you get out of the water, slip into dry socks (pro tip: leave them in your car’s window to pre-warm). Warm feet do wonders.

Layering Lower Body

Even if it doesn’t feel freezing yet, cold water in the morning and evening can numb your legs. Numb legs can lead to awkward slips—and potentially a day-ending fall.

Use moisture-wicking base layers (like synthetic or merino wool), fleece or insulating mid-layers, and a shell or dry outer layer. 

Always Bring Extras

I always carry a small dry bag now with extra clothes. If I do take an unintentional dip (which I once did while landing brookies on the Boulder), With a spare pair of clothes you can change on the bank and salvage the day.

Consider a collapsible wading staff for stability and a snug wading belt to prevent water from flooding your waders if you slip

3. Timing & Location: Fall’s Rhythm on the Water

Fall makes it easy to be a bit lazy—days are shorter, sunrises are later, and it sets earlier.

• Mid-morning to mid-afternoon is prime time. Fish often wake up around 8 AM—bugs begin rising, and trout become active as temperatures climb.

• For streamers, favor deep pools and runs. Cast upstream, let your fly swing down, and give it a few strips—it often triggers strikes from sluggish trout getting fat for winter.

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4. What You Could Try Differently

• Experiment with muted olive or blue-olive tones, especially in clearer waters—great natural blends.

• Use dry-dropper rigs: a dry caddis or terrestrial on top with a weighted nymph below. Great all-day setup.

• Fish under overcast or drizzly skies

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Wrap-Up

My fall fly fishing ritual pairs artful fly tying, thoughtful layering, and strategic timing—helping me stay comfortable and fish every moment like it’s the one. If you fish this way, you'll be ready for those surprise falls and big bites that make fall so rewarding.

Extra reading
The art of adjustment
inside the mind of a trout
Fishing Report