March – May
West Virginia fly fishingin spring: the guide
Your complete guide to fly fishing in West Virginia during spring (March – May).
The full spring guide for West Virginia is on its way. In the meantime, here are the flies and waters to start with.
Top Spring flies for West Virginia
Ranked by how often they show up in this season's reports.
popperGurglerAs spring progresses and water temperatures warm, topwater action for bass increases. This popper creates enticing disturbance, drawing explosive strikes.nymphHendrickson NymphHendricksons are a key early spring hatch; nymphs are active subsurface and a primary food source for trout.streamerClouser MinnowThis pattern effectively imitates baitfish in varying water conditions, a go-to for predatory species like Smallmouth Bass in the spring.nymphHellgrammite FlyHellgrammites are a consistent and substantial food source for smallmouth bass in rocky rivers year-round, including spring.streamerPine Squirrel Leech (Olive)Small leech patterns like this effectively mimic sluggish baitfish and annelids in cold water, enticing strikes from larger, lethargic trout and bass in early spring.dryMother's Day CaddisThe prolific Mother's Day Caddis hatch is expected in late April through May, making this dry fly a perfect imitation for adult caddis in mid-spring.dryElk Hair CaddisCaddis activity is increasing in late spring on the Elk River, making this a reliable dry fly choice for active adult caddis.nymphFlashback Pheasant Tail NymphA versatile and effective general mayfly nymph imitation, ideal for prospecting deeper runs and riffles for trout feeding subsurface on active nymphs.
Waters in West Virginia 6 to fish
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