New York Fly Fishing September: Fall Hatches & Prime Rivers

01September Fly Fishing Overview in New York

September marks one of the most rewarding months for fly fishing in New York, as cooler temperatures trigger increased trout activity and kickstart the season's most dependable hatches. The Empire State's legendary waters, from the storied freestone streams of the Catskills to the productive tailwater fisheries below major reservoirs, offer exceptional opportunities as summer crowds dissipate and fish feed aggressively before winter.

Morning temperatures frequently dip into the 40s and 50s, while afternoons climb to comfortable levels in the 60s and 70s. This temperature differential creates ideal conditions for hatch activity, particularly the prolific Blue-Winged Olive emergences that define autumn fishing across the region. Water levels typically stabilize after summer's low flows, and the first hints of fall foliage add spectacular scenery to already productive fishing.

Terrestrial patterns remain effective through early September, but the month's defining characteristic is the transition to classic autumn hatches. BWO emergences become increasingly reliable, while late-season caddis and Trico hatches provide consistent surface action. Streamer fishing reaches its peak as large brown trout begin their pre-spawn feeding frenzy.

02Top Rivers for September

Delaware River System

The Delaware River system, including the East Branch, West Branch, and main stem, offers New York's premier September fly fishing. The East Branch below Pepacton Reservoir provides consistent flows and excellent BWO hatches, particularly in the Downsville and Shinhopple areas. Morning midge fishing can be exceptional, while afternoon BWO emergences trigger reliable rises.

The West Branch below Cannonsville Reservoir shines in September with its classic pool-and-riffle structure and abundant insect life. The Hale Eddy and Deposit areas offer excellent wading access and consistent fishing throughout the month. This section responds particularly well to Blue-Winged Olive Comparadun patterns during afternoon emergences.

Beaverkill River

America's most famous trout stream maintains its reputation through September with excellent terrestrial fishing transitioning to autumn hatches. The classic pools like Cairns, Ferdon's, and Hendrickson's provide trophy opportunities, while the upper reaches near Lew Beach offer more intimate small-stream fishing. The Beaverkill's wild brown trout population peaks in activity during September's cooling temperatures.

Willowemoc Creek

This Catskills gem offers exceptional September fishing with its combination of public water and classic eastern brook trout habitat. The Livingston Manor area provides excellent access, while the upper reaches challenge anglers with technical presentations to spooky fish. September's cooler nights bring both browns and brookies into prime feeding condition.

Ausable River System

The Ausable's East and West Branches provide Adirondack fishing at its finest during September. The West Branch above Lake Placid offers wild brook trout in stunning mountain settings, while the East Branch below Ausable Lake provides excellent brown and rainbow trout fishing. September's stable flows and cooling temperatures create ideal conditions throughout the system.

Neversink River

The Neversink below Neversink Reservoir provides excellent September fishing with its dependable flows and diverse insect population. The Bridgeville and Oakland Valley sections offer productive water with good access. This tailwater maintains consistent temperatures that support reliable BWO hatches and active fish throughout the month.

03September Hatch Report

Blue-Winged Olives

September's signature hatch, Blue-Winged Olives provide the month's most consistent surface activity. Multiple BWO species emerge throughout September, with size 18-22 patterns most effective. Baetis tricaudatus dominates early September, while B. pygmaeus becomes important later in the month. Overcast, drizzly days produce the best BWO fishing, with emergences typically starting between noon and 2 PM.

Fish BWO Comparadun patterns during active emergences, switching to Comparadun BWO in smaller sizes as the month progresses. Subsurface, Pheasant Tail Nymph patterns in sizes 18-20 remain productive throughout the day.

Trico Spinnerfall

Early September continues the Trico spinner falls that begin in August, providing exceptional early-morning surface fishing. These tiny mayflies (size 22-26) create feeding frenzies on many Catskills streams, particularly the Delaware system. The spinner fall typically occurs between 7-10 AM, requiring fine tippet and precise presentations.

Late Caddis

Various caddis species remain active through September, with Brachycentrus and Hydropsyche providing the most fishing opportunities. Evening emergences and egg-laying flights trigger aggressive feeding, particularly on the Delaware and its tributaries. Elk Hair Caddis CDC patterns in sizes 14-18 prove most effective.

Terrestrials

Early September continues excellent terrestrial fishing, with ants, beetles, and hoppers providing consistent action, especially along grassy banks and meadow streams. Cricket patterns become increasingly important as the month progresses, while flying ant days can provide explosive surface action.

Late Season Stones

Small stonefly species continue emerging through September, particularly on faster Catskills waters. Little Black Stonefly patterns in sizes 16-18 can be effective during midday periods when other hatches are absent.

04Recommended Flies for September

Dry Flies

BWO patterns dominate September dry fly selections. Blue-Winged Olive Comparadun in sizes 18-22 handles most BWO emergences, while Comparadun patterns in various sizes cover multiple species. For Trico fishing, carry spinner patterns in sizes 22-26.

Terrestrial patterns remain important early in the month. Foam ant patterns in sizes 14-18, beetle patterns, and cricket imitations provide consistent action. Stimulator Orange patterns work well as searching flies and can imitate multiple terrestrial species.

Caddis patterns like Elk Hair Caddis CDC handle evening emergences, while Haystack Caddis patterns provide effective alternatives during heavy hatches.

Nymphs and Emergers

BWO nymph patterns form the foundation of September subsurface fishing. Pheasant Tail Nymph in sizes 18-22 remains the most versatile pattern, while Flashback Hare's Ear patterns in sizes 16-20 provide weight and attraction in deeper water.

Emerger patterns become crucial during BWO hatches. Soft hackle patterns and CDC emergers in sizes 18-22 bridge the gap between subsurface nymphs and surface dries. Klinkhammer patterns prove particularly effective during heavy emergences.

Streamers

September marks the beginning of prime streamer season as brown trout begin pre-spawn behavior. Woolly Bugger patterns in olive, brown, and black remain most versatile, while Clouser Minnow patterns in sizes 6-10 imitate the baitfish that large trout target.

For aggressive fish, larger patterns like Deceiver flies in sizes 4-8 can trigger strikes from trophy trout. Focus on natural colors—olive, brown, tan, and black—that match the predominant forage in New York waters.

05Gear Notes and What to Pack

Rod Selection

A 9-foot 5-weight rod handles most September fishing situations in New York. This setup provides sufficient backbone for larger fish while maintaining the delicacy needed for technical BWO presentations. Consider a 4-weight for small stream fishing or when targeting spooky fish in low, clear water.

For streamer fishing, a 6-weight rod offers better line control and fish-fighting capability. The extra power helps turn large browns and provides the backbone needed for effective streamer presentations in deeper pools and runs.

Line Considerations

A weight forward floating line covers most September situations. For BWO fishing, a delicate presentation line helps achieve drag-free drifts with small flies. Sink-tip lines become valuable for streamer fishing, particularly when targeting deep pools and undercut banks where large trout hold.

Leaders and Tippet

Long leaders (12-15 feet) prove essential for September's technical fishing. For BWO presentations, taper down to 6X tippet, while 5X handles most other situations. Carry fluorocarbon tippet for subsurface presentations and clear water conditions.

For streamer fishing, shorter leaders (7-9 feet) with 3X-4X tippet provide better turnover and fish control. Always carry multiple tippet sizes to adapt to changing conditions and fly sizes.

Essential Accessories

A good landing net becomes crucial in September as fish size and activity levels increase. Choose a net with rubber mesh to protect fish during catch-and-release. Carry split shot and indicators for nymph fishing, particularly when BWO emergences haven't begun.

Polarized sunglasses remain essential for spotting fish and reading water, while a good headlamp extends fishing time during September's shorter days. Pack layers as temperature swings can be significant, particularly during morning sessions.

Wading Considerations

September's stable flows make wading generally safe, but water temperatures begin dropping, making neoprene waders increasingly comfortable. Consider felt-soled boots for better traction on New York's often slippery rocks, though check local regulations as some waters restrict felt soles.

Pack a wading staff for crossing deeper sections, particularly on larger waters like the Delaware system. Early season leaves can make rocks especially slippery, requiring extra caution when moving through the water.

06Fishing Strategies and Techniques

BWO Fishing Tactics

September BWO fishing requires patience and observation. Start with subsurface presentations using Pheasant Tail Nymph patterns, then switch to emergers as activity increases. Watch for rising fish and match the hatch with appropriately sized dry flies.

Use long, fine leaders and achieve dead drift presentations. BWO-eating trout are notoriously selective, requiring perfect drag-free drifts. Consider fishing multiple flies using a dropper system to cover different feeding zones simultaneously.

Streamer Presentations

September streamer fishing targets aggressive brown trout beginning pre-spawn behavior. Focus on deeper pools, undercut banks, and structure where large fish hold. Use aggressive strips interspersed with pauses to trigger reaction strikes.

Fish streamers during low-light periods—early morning, late evening, and overcast days. Large browns often feed most aggressively when light levels drop, making these periods prime for streamer presentations.

Reading September Water

Cooling water temperatures drive trout into different lies than summer patterns. Look for fish in moderate depths (2-4 feet) where they can easily intercept drifting insects. Seams between fast and slow water become particularly productive as they concentrate food.

Pay attention to riffles and pocket water where BWOs emerge. These areas often hold multiple feeding fish during active hatches. Don't overlook slower pools, which can harbor large fish feeding on emerging insects.

07Conservation and Ethics

September's excellent fishing comes with increased responsibility for conservation. Practice catch-and-release on wild trout, handle fish carefully, and use barbless hooks to minimize injury. New York's wild trout populations face pressure from habitat loss and climate change, making individual angler ethics crucial.

Respect private property and follow all regulations. Many of New York's best waters flow through private land, and maintaining positive relationships with landowners ensures continued access. Pack out all trash and leave no trace of your presence.

Consider contributing to conservation organizations like Trout Unlimited chapters working to protect New York waters. These groups conduct habitat restoration, advocate for clean water policies, and educate anglers about conservation practices.

08Regional Variations

The Catskills region offers the most consistent September fishing, with its combination of freestone streams and tailwater fisheries providing diverse opportunities. Focus on the Delaware system for the most reliable hatches and largest fish.

Adirondack waters, including the Ausable system, provide excellent brook trout fishing in spectacular mountain settings. These waters typically fish best during cooler periods and may require hiking to access the best sections.

Finger Lakes tributaries can provide excellent fishing, particularly for steelhead beginning their spawning runs. These fish offer different challenges than resident trout and require heavier tackle and different techniques.

09Sources & References

• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation - Fishing Information
• USGS Real-Time Water Data for New York
• Trout Unlimited - Eastern Brook Trout Conservation
• Catskill Streams - Stream Conditions and Conservation
• National Weather Service - Albany Office
• Fishing New York - Conditions and Reports
• American Museum of Fly Fishing - Heritage and Education
• The Fly Fishing Shop - Regional Reports