Cranberry Glades Trailheadon Cranberry River
What's working on Cranberry River
- 01Trout are actively feeding on a mix of nymphs and emergers subsurface.
- 02Look for opportunistic rises during fall Blue-Winged Olive and October Caddis hatches, especially on warmer or overcast days.
- 03Larger predatory trout, particularly Brown Trout, will be more aggressive and susceptible to streamer patterns.
- 04Egg patterns will become increasingly effective as various trout species begin to stage for spawning.
- 05Midges remain a consistent food source and should be fished in slower runs and deeper pools.
What to tie on at Cranberry Glades Trailhead
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Tellico Nymph
This nymph is highly effective for trout during spring, imitating actively drifting insects in the current.
Copper John
Effective year-round in faster water, this general attractor nymph is a great point fly in nymph rigs for active trout.
Buy at AmazonPheasant Tail Nymph
A year-round staple, this nymph effectively mimics various mayfly nymphs (including BWOs) that are active, especially during spring BWO periods.
Buy at AmazonMayer's Mini Leech
Small leech patterns effectively mimic sluggish baitfish and annelids in cold water, enticing strikes from larger, lethargic trout in early spring.
Haystack Caddis
This pattern effectively imitates larger caddis adults active in spring, drawing aggressive strikes from trout.
Flashback Hare's Ear Nymph
An excellent general searching nymph for early spring, mimicking various mayfly nymphs that are active year-round and particularly as BWOs begin to emerge.
Glo Bug (Orange)
Resident trout remain keyed into egg patterns year-round, particularly with the upcoming spring rainbow spawn.
Blue-Winged Olive Comparadun
Blue-Winged Olives are actively hatching in early spring, especially on overcast days, making this low-profile dry fly excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults.
Mr. Rapidan Parachute Dry
Quill Gordons and Caddisflies are actively hatching in spring, making this a reliable dry fly choice for rising trout.
West Virginia season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.