Devin's Question:

I like to flyfish and I was wondering if you could tell me how to catch trout on really sunny days. It seems like when it is hot and sunny, I can't catch anything.

— Devin

Mark's Answer:

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Dear Devin —

It's tough for anyone to catch trout on hot, sunny days. You have to understand there are several things at work here. First, trout are always—even only— worried about two things: cover and eating. They don't want to be eaten by a bird or raccoon and they want to eat. (Once a year they get preoccupied and worry about spawning, but that's another story). When the sun is full, especially midday, trout know that they are exposed and can be seen. Trout will find cover, under and behind rocks, under cutbanks, under fallen trees, anywhere that you can't see them.

And if you can see them, in those sunny conditions, the trout can see your tippet or monofilament. They also become more discerning about your lure or fly because they can see it so well.

The second thing at work when the conditions are sunny is that the water heats up. When the water heats up, there is less oxygen, so trout will tend to move to more oxygenated water.

My best tips to catch trout when the sky is high and the sun is out? Fish to spots where the trout could hide, preferably shady or riffled water. Fish deeper by adding weights to your line (water is cooler down below, and the deeper the trout, the more hidden it is from predators). Use a lighter mono or tippet. Use smaller, more exacting flies and lures. And don't let the trout see you—take cover, hide behind bushes and trees. And minimize your wading.

Good luck,
Mark D. Williams