7 Tips For Fly Fishing The Skwala Hatch

Tip #1 Focus on the Right Water

Early in the Skwala hatch in Montana trout are still typically in their winter runs. Water such as slow inside seams, back eddies with slow recirculating water and slow tail outs is where you want to focus your time. As the water temperature starts to climb later in the hatch the trout will start moving out to a little faster water. Often times we will see anglers fishing faster water such as outside edges and not catching fish. These heavier runs produce fish when the water temperature is warmer but void of fish during times when the water temperature is in the low to mid 40's.

Tip #2 Size Down as the Hatch Progresses

In the beginning of the hatch the fish are pretty naïve, with little pressure over the winter, meaning you can get away with some bigger bugs. As the season progresses and the fish get more educated to fly patterns, size down to smaller bugs like a size 12. We often fish what we call a tweener around Missoula, which is basically a hybrid version of a Skwala and Nemoura.

Tip #3 Fish the Edges

Skwala nymphs crawl out of the river to emerge, so the adults are concentrated along the banks. Fish tight to the bank — within a foot or two — especially on the Bitterroot River and Rock Creek. Trout will hold just off the bank waiting for adults to fall in.

Tip #4 Watch the Weather

Skwala activity is heavily weather dependent. Warmer afternoons bring more adults to the water earlier. Don't be discouraged by clouds or even light snow — some of the best Skwala days happen in a snow squall. Watch water temperature more than air temperature; 43°F is the magic number to activate the hatch.

Tip #5 Don't Ignore the Nemoura

The Nemoura hatches alongside the Skwala and is often overlooked. When fish are refusing your Skwala, drop down to a smaller Nemoura or BWO imitation. A two-fly rig with a Skwala and a trailing Nemoura nymph is deadly early in the season.

Tip #6 Use a Longer Leader

Spring water is clear and cold. Trout have had all winter to get spooky. A longer, finer leader — 12 to 14 feet — gives you the separation you need to fool educated fish in slow, clear water. Go as long as you can comfortably cast.

Tip #7 Get Your License

Montana fishing licenses expire February 28. The Skwala starts in early March, so make sure you're properly licensed before you hit the river. You can purchase a license online through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.