September Trout Fly Bundle

SHOP THE MONTHLY TROUT BUNDLE

We put together monthly trout assortments based on the flies we actually use and guide with here on our home waters. These aren’t just random patterns tossed in a box—each month’s selection is hand-picked to match the current conditions we see on the water day in and day out.

While there are tons of effective flies out there, we've distilled it down to a clean lineup of 24 proven patterns that’ll cover you for a few solid days of trout fishing. Even if you're not fishing in our neck of the woods, you’ll find these selections are versatile and effective on most western rivers. Shop with confidence—these are the same bugs we trust with our own clients.

September's Trout Fishing Outlook

September is a transitional month, and the trout know it. As the water cools and oxygen levels tick back up, those lazy summer fish hanging deep in the pools start to get aggressive again. The hopper game isn’t completely over—but the window is shrinking fast. We’re still getting eats, but if you’ve been putting off tying your last batch of hoppers… you’re running out of excuses. Meanwhile, the fall micro mayflies are beginning to pop. Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) are back on the menu, especially the tiny fall variety. A size #18 is a solid all-around bet for both dries and nymphs, but if you’re a sight-fishing junkie who likes a challenge, you better pack some #20s too—especially for those picky sippers that turn their nose up at your first offer. There will be other misc. bugs like Mohogany Duns, Cahills, and some random Caddis but the BWO is the most important hatch.

And if you’re hunting for bigger game? Time to get dirty. Fall trout start acting like predators—this is prime time for jig-style sculpins and crawfish imitations. Think meat, movement, and deep slots. Look for obvious drop-offs and ledges below riffles. You’re not always going to find them hugging the bank—those mid-channel ambush zones are loaded with shady customers this time of year. Toward the end of the month, keep an eye out for October Caddis—those big orange moth-looking missiles that get trout fired up at dusk. Fish the adult dries skittering or try swinging a pupa pattern low and slow. And don’t forget the sleeper hit of fall: the Crane Fly. They hatch in big numbers and skate across the surface laying eggs. If you want to watch a trout lose its mind, try skating a crane fly through the foam line. Buckle up.