Trout After Dark: A Guide to Fly Fishing at Night

Are you ready to take your fishing game to the next level? If so, put on your night vision goggles and get ready to explore the exciting world of fly fishing for trout at night!

You might be thinking, “Why on earth would I want to go fly fishing at night?” Well, first of all, it’s a whole different experience than fishing during the day. The quiet, peacefulness of being out on the water under the stars is something you just can’t get during daylight hours. Plus, fishing at night is a great way to beat the heat during those hot summer months.

But let’s not forget about the real reason we’re here – catching fish! And trust me, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of landing a big ol’ trout in the middle of the night.

In this post, I’m going to share with you everything you need to know to get started with night fishing for trout. From the gear you need to the techniques that work best, I’ve got you covered. So grab a cup of your favorite caffeinated beverage and let’s dive in!

The Basics of Fly Fishing at Night

Differences between fly fishing during the day and at night

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of catching trout at night, let’s talk about the basics of fly fishing after dark. First and foremost, it’s important to recognize that fishing at night is a different game altogether. Not only is it harder to see, but the fish are less active, so you need to be extra stealthy to get a bite.

Essential gear and equipment for night fishing

One of the most important pieces of gear you’ll need for night fishing is a good headlamp. You’ll want one that’s bright enough to light up the water in front of you, but not so bright that it scares off the fish. I recommend getting one with a red light option, as this won’t spook the fish as much as a white light. It’s also a good idea to bring along some extra batteries, just in case.

Another essential piece of gear for night fishing is a good pair of polarized sunglasses. Yes, you read that right – you’ll want to wear sunglasses at night. The best kind of sunglasses will be some with a yellow or green tint, the black tint might be a little too dark for the nighttime. Not only will they protect your eyes from stray hooks, but they’ll also help you see better by cutting down on glare from the water.

In terms of clothing, you’ll want to dress appropriately for the weather, but keep in mind that it can get chilly at night, even in the middle of summer. I recommend wearing layers, so you can adjust your clothing as needed throughout the night. And don’t forget about bug spray – those pesky mosquitoes are still out and about after dark!

Flies

By far my favorite fly to use after dark is the mouse fly, which is known to be particularly effective at night. I’ve had great success using mouse flies to catch big brown trout during moonlit fishing trips.

So if you’re looking to up your night fishing game and target some trophy-sized trout, be sure to give the mouse fly a try. With a little patience, persistence, and the right fly, you might just land the catch of a lifetime.

Besides mouse flies, streamers and dry flies can both catch trout at night. I would definitely recommend streamers over dries as they disturb the water more and can provoke some serious action from the fish even in the absence of light. 

Safety

I can’t stress the importance of keeping safety in mind when fishing at night. Always let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back, and never fish alone. Stick to areas you’re familiar with and be aware of your surroundings at all times. It isn’t a bad idea to go and scout out the area in the daytime before you fish it after dark. 

Tips for Fly Fishing at Night

Being that you’re now prepared with the right gear and safety tips, it’s time to talk about the techniques that work best for catching trout at night.

As I mentioned before, one effective technique is using mouse flies. In fact, I’ve caught some seriously big browns using this technique. It’s not uncommon to feel a powerful tug on the line as these big fish aggressively hit the mouse fly. It can be a heart-pumping experience and one that’s sure to keep you coming back for more.

So if you’re looking to up your night fishing game and target some trophy-sized brown trout, be sure to give the mouse fly a try. With a bit of patience, persistence, and the right fly, you just might land the catch of a lifetime.

When and Where

When it comes to fly fishing for trout at night, the location and timing are critical. Ideally, you want to find a location with a high concentration of trout and a good feeding pattern.

During the warmer months, trout are more active at night, especially during a full moon when they tend to feed more heavily. In terms of timing, the best time to start fishing is around dusk, just as the sun sets. This is when the insects begin to emerge and the trout start to feed.

When it comes to location, look for areas with deeper water, such as pools or eddies, where trout tend to congregate. Additionally, areas with structure, such as logs or boulders, can provide cover for the trout and make for ideal feeding spots.

It’s also important to pay attention to the weather conditions. Overcast or cloudy nights are often ideal for night fishing, as they can help to reduce glare on the water and make it easier for the trout to see your fly.

By focusing on these key elements of location, timing, and weather, you’ll be better positioned to catch some nice fish. Just remember to bring your patience, persistence, and a variety of flies to keep things interesting.

Get Out and Have Fun

Fly fishing for trout at night might require a bit more preparation than a normal trip, however, it can be an unforgettable experience.  By following the tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be better prepared to catch some serious trout under the stars.

Remember to choose the right flies for the occasion, keep your gear and technique dialed in, stay safe, and focus on the location and timing to increase your chances of success.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking to try something new or a beginner looking for an exciting challenge, night fishing for trout is definitely worth a try. So, grab your gear, find a good location, and get ready to experience the thrill of fly fishing at night. Tight lines!