A Comprehensive Guide to Catching Trout with Trico Flies

Fishing tricos refers to the practice of fly fishing using an imitation of the Tricorythodes mayfly, commonly known as “Trico” for short. These mayflies are small and hatch in prolific numbers, making them a vital food source for trout, especially in the late summer and early fall. Anglers use Trico patterns to mimic these mayflies’ adult and nymph stages to entice fish to strike.

They work because they closely imitate a natural food source that is abundant during their hatch. Fish are more likely to be actively feeding on Tricos during these periods, making them more susceptible to the imitation.

The best time to fish Tricos is during their hatch, which usually occurs from late summer into the fall. Early morning is the prime time, as this is when the Tricos are most active. Ideal conditions would be a calm and overcast day, as trout are more likely to be near the surface and feeding under such conditions.

One of the challenges with fishing Tricos is their small size. The flies can be difficult to see on the water, making it tough to know when a fish has taken the fly. Additionally, casting small flies accurately requires skill. Tricos are also most active during dawn, requiring early mornings for the best results.

Rod and Line Choice

When fishing Tricos, it’s often advisable to use a light, sensitive rod to better feel subtle strikes and to better present the small flies. A 3- to 5-weight rod in a length of 8.5 to 9 feet is generally considered a good choice. A fast-action rod can help with the precise casts needed for presenting these small flies, although a medium-action rod can also work if you’re more comfortable with it.

As for line choice, a light, double-taper or weight-forward floating line is often recommended. Since Tricos are small and the trout are often wary, using a long, fine leader and tippet is crucial. A 9- to 12-foot leader tapered down to 6X or even 7X can make a big difference in your success rate.

Technique

Given the small size of Trico flies, a delicate presentation is usually necessary. This often requires a downstream or up-and-across stream cast so as not to spook the fish. If possible, aim to land the fly without any drag, letting it float naturally with the current. Stealth is key; trout can be especially skittish when feeding on Tricos, and a clumsy approach or cast can easily put the fish down.

Target Water

Trico hatches are usually best in slow to moderate currents, often in flat, glassy pools or in tail-outs where the water slows down. In these areas, trout often rise methodically to sip the tiny mayflies off the surface, making them ideal places to focus your fishing efforts. Trout can be quite selective during a Trico hatch, so aim for a perfect drift over rising fish whenever possible.

Best Time of Year and Day

The Trico hatch typically occurs from late summer into early fall, although the timing can vary based on the specific water body and geographical location. Tricos usually hatch in the early morning, often just after dawn. By late morning, the hatch usually dwindles, and the opportunity to fish them effectively diminishes.

To summarize, fishing Tricos can be a challenging but rewarding experience. The small size of the flies and the selectivity of the trout make for a technical fishing situation, but the large numbers of fish that can be feeding during a hatch make it an exciting opportunity. Being equipped with the right gear, employing a delicate presentation, and fishing at the right time and place are all crucial for success.

Setting the Hook with Small Trico Flies

Hooking trout with small Trico flies can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are some tips to increase your success rate:

Gear Considerations:

  • Sensitive Rod: Use a sensitive rod in the 3- to 5-weight range to feel subtle takes better.
  • Light Line: A light, floating line will allow for a more delicate presentation.
  • Fine Leader and Tippet: A fine leader and tippet (6X or 7X) are crucial for presenting small flies and for fooling wary trout.

Casting Technique:

  • Delicate Presentation: Make sure to cast the fly delicately, aiming for a natural drift.
  • Accurate Casting: Aim for upstream or up-and-across casting to prevent drag and to let the fly float naturally downstream.

Observing and Targeting:

  • Spotting Fish: Spend some time observing the water for feeding trout. They are usually seen in flat, glassy pools or in tail-outs during a Trico hatch.
  • Casting to Risers: Aim to cast your fly over a rising fish for the best chances of a take.

Hook Setting:

  • Soft Set: Because Trico flies are small and the tippet is fine, a hard hook set is usually a mistake. A quick but gentle lifting of the rod tip will suffice.
  • High Rod Tip: Keep your rod tip high to maintain tension and control slack line, allowing for quicker, more effective hook sets.
  • Immediate Reaction: Trout usually take Tricos delicately. React as soon as you see the take — either your fly disappearing or a swirl where your fly used to be.

Fighting the Fish:

  • Gentle Pressure: Once hooked, apply gentle, steady pressure to keep the fish from breaking the fine tippet.
  • Let it Run: If the fish wants to run, let it take line from the reel rather than trying to horse it in.
  • Netting: Use a soft, rubberized net to land the fish while minimizing harm.

Hooking fish with small Trico flies requires attention to detail and a soft touch. With the right gear and technique, however, it offers a thrilling and rewarding fly fishing experience.

Long Leaders and Tricos: 

Handling long leaders and fine tippets while fishing Tricos can indeed be challenging, but it’s crucial for presenting the fly naturally and fooling wary trout. Here are some tips on how to effectively manage these delicate set-ups:

Preparation

  • Pre-Tie Leaders and Tippets: Given that Tricos require a delicate presentation, pre-tying leaders and tippets at home can save you time and reduce stress on the water.
  • Use a Tippet Ring: A tippet ring between the leader and tippet can make it easier to change tippets without shortening the leader.

Casting

  • Smooth Casting Stroke: Employ a smooth, controlled casting stroke to help turn over the long leader and prevent tangles.
  • Open Loop: Use a slightly more open loop in your casting to allow the leader and tippet to unfurl properly. This reduces the chances of wind knots and tangles.
  • Double Haul: If you’re comfortable with it, a double haul can help energize your line and leader, making it easier to get an accurate and delicate presentation.

Drift and Presentation

  • High-Stick Technique: Keeping your rod tip high allows for better line control, helping you achieve a drag-free drift which is crucial when fishing with fine leaders and tippets.
  • Mending: Learn to mend effectively to maintain a natural drift. With long leaders, you may need to employ reach casts or aerial mends to prevent drag.
  • Feather the Line: As your fly drifts downstream, gently feather the line through your fingers to maintain the desired tension. This will help you detect strikes more easily.

Hook Setting and Fighting Fish

  • Soft Set: Be extra gentle when setting the hook. A sharp, strong hook set can easily snap fine tippets.
  • Keep the Rod High: Once hooked, keep the rod tip high to maintain tension and to absorb any sudden runs or jumps by the fish.

Troubleshooting

  • Untangling: If you do get a tangle, be patient and methodical when untangling to avoid weakening or breaking the fine tippet.
  • Wind: If it’s windy, you may need to shorten the leader or switch to a slightly heavier tippet to maintain control.

Storage and Maintenance

  • Leader Wallet: Keep extra leaders and tippets in a leader wallet or similar organizer. This allows for quick changes without the fuss of tying new leaders on-stream.
  • Tippet Spools: Keep multiple sizes of tippet spools easily accessible. You never know when you’ll need to step down to an even finer tippet.

Managing long leaders and fine tippets can be challenging but mastering these skills will greatly enhance your effectiveness when fishing Tricos. Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you fish these challenging setups, the more comfortable you’ll become.