Atlantic Salmon (Salmo Salar): A Prized Catch for Anglers
Where to Find Atlantic Salmon
This map shows global observations of Atlantic salmon, highlighting the continents, countries, and waters where this iconic species thrives.
Hook a 30lb Atlantic salmon, and any notion of fly fishing as a gentle pastime will vanish. These fish are sheer power and defiance, making them a legendary catch.
Had Shakespeare been an angler, he might have written a play about Atlantic salmon. They spend most of their lives at sea before battling upstream—often against incredible odds—to spawn and die. Today, illegal netting and fish farming’s environmental impact make their journey even more perilous, adding urgency to the phrase: "while you still can."
The Challenge of Atlantic Salmon
Atlantic salmon start at a formidable 25 pounds, packing on muscle from a diet of crab, shrimp, and fish while at sea. This strength allows them to endure months without food as they migrate upstream.
Yet, they still take flies—a mystery anglers continue to unravel. While fishing prime rivers during peak seasons can be costly, affordable beats remain for those seeking this thrilling pursuit.
How to Fly Fish for Atlantic Salmon
While these guidelines aren’t rigid, they provide a solid foundation:
- Early/Late Season: Fish big flies deep. Salmon often hide in sheltered lies away from strong currents to conserve energy. Target slow, deep pools in normal water levels and near riverbanks during high water.
- Late Spring to Early Autumn: Switch to small flies near the surface. Lighter gear, even a trout rod, can suffice.
Technique:
- Cast across the river, letting the current swing the fly downstream until it rests below you. Recast to keep the fly just above the riverbed.
- Move slowly—cold-water salmon won’t chase fast-moving flies. Take a step downstream after each cast to cover the entire pool.
In warmer months, focus on deep water below fast stretches (though don’t ignore oxygen-rich "white water" areas). Swing your fly slowly, keeping it on or just under the surface.
Best Flies for Atlantic Salmon
- Cold Water: Use large tube flies (up to 3 inches) to provoke sluggish salmon. The two-part design prevents hook leverage, reducing the risk of escape. The Willie Gunn is a standout choice.
- Warm Water: Switch to size 8–10 conventional flies, downsizing to 12–14 in summer. Favorites include the Curry’s Red Shrimp, Munro Killer (for slow stretches), and Stoat’s Tail (versatile for all waters).
- Summer Surface Fishing: Try a Humpy or Bi-Visible, especially over choppy water.
This guide equips you to tackle one of fly fishing’s greatest challenges—the mighty Atlantic salmon. Tight lines!
Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Global Distribution of Rainbow Trout
This map shows observations of rainbow trout worldwide, highlighting the continents, countries, and waters where this species thrives.
Why Target Rainbow Trout?
Rainbow trout may lack the striking appearance of brown trout, but they more than compensate with their feisty nature. Unlike their finicky cousins, rainbows remain active even when conditions aren’t perfect, putting up a thrilling fight when hooked. Their rapid growth, adaptability, and willingness to bite make them a favorite among fly fishers and fishery owners.
Behavior and Habitat
Rainbow and brown trout share some traits. Both feed at all depths, from the surface to the riverbed, and in rivers, they often lurk behind boulders, darting out to ambush prey carried by the current. Like brown trout, rainbows grow more predatory with age.
However, rainbows are less solitary, often moving in groups. If you hook one, others are likely nearby. They also tolerate warmer temperatures, making them more active in summer when brown trout retreat to cooler depths.
Fly Fishing Techniques for Rainbow Trout
-
Locating the Fish
- In stillwaters, target areas near dams, where rainbows often corner schools of small fish late in the season.
- In warm weather, watch for rainbows near overhanging trees, where insects frequently fall onto the water. They also forage along shorelines in summer and autumn.
-
Dry Fly Fishing
- Patience is key. Rainbows may take up to 10 minutes to strike a dry fly drifting on the surface.
- In open water, look for "wind lanes"—calm patches where rainbows cruise just below the surface, targeting windblown insects.
-
Fishing in Rivers
- If rainbows aren’t surface-feeding, use weighted flies near boulders or deep pools downstream of cascades.
- Don’t overlook faster, shallower stretches—rainbows are more resilient than browns and may strike in surprisingly shallow water.
-
Stealth Matters
- Wear muted colors and position yourself against vegetation to avoid spooking the fish.
Best Flies for Rainbow Trout
- Stillwaters: Try a Black Buzzer or nymphs like the Hare’s Ear and Pheasant Tail Nymph. Count down to determine the depth at which fish are feeding.
- Streamers: Mickey Finn or Muddler Minnow are effective. Experiment with retrieval speeds—slower retrieves work better in winter when fish conserve energy.
- Dry Flies: Carry a variety (e.g., White Wulff, Quill Gordon, Parachute Adams) to match surface insects. Wait for the trout to fully take the fly before striking.
- Evening Fishing: If all else fails, try a large wet fly like a March Brown, casting across and downstream as light fades.
Final Tip: Observe and adapt. Rainbow trout are opportunistic feeders, so adjust your tactics based on their behavior and the conditions. Happy fishing!
Where to Find Asp
This map shows global observations of Asp, highlighting the continents, countries, and waters where this species thrives.
Asp (Aspius aspius), often called the European perch, is a prized game fish found in rivers, lakes, and other freshwater bodies across Europe and parts of Asia. Known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights, they offer an exhilarating challenge for fly anglers.
Prime Fly Fishing Locations for Asp
Asp primarily inhabit large rivers but can also be found in lakes. Some of the best destinations include:
- Sweden: Lake Vättern and the River Mörrum
- Finland: Lake Saimaa and the River Kymijoki
- Norway: The River Gaula and Jotunheimen’s lakes
- Western Europe: The Waal and Maas rivers in the Netherlands
These regions host thriving Asp populations, with clear, cold waters providing ideal habitats.
Best Flies for Asp
Small streamers (1–2 inches) work best early in the season, mimicking young baitfish. As the season progresses, slightly larger streamers (around 2–2.5 inches) are effective. Avoid oversized flies, as they may deter Asp.
Fly Fishing Techniques for Asp
- Gear: Use an AFTMA 6–8 rod with a floating line (for surface fishing) or sinking line (for lakes).
- Locations: Target areas with structure, such as converging currents, shorelines, or rocks.
- Retrieval: A slow, steady retrieve with occasional pauses often triggers strikes.
- Adaptability: Asp can be selective. If they ignore your fly, adjust the size, color, or retrieve speed.
Pro Tip: Early mornings and late evenings are the most productive times, especially during summer.
This streamlined version improves clarity, removes redundancy, and enhances readability while preserving all key information.