Springtime in Jackson Hole is full of opportunity, challenge, and reward for anglers willing to adapt. The snow is melting, the rivers are rising, and the fish are feeding. May and June are transitional months, during which conditions can change rapidly. Knowing what to look for and where to cast this time of year can offer some of the best action you’ll see all year.
Top tips to help you make the most of your time on the water this spring:
Pay attention to conditions
Pay attention to what the fish are aating
Use the right gear
Respect spawning closures
Hire a local guide, it’s worth it!
Pay Attention to Conditions
May and June in Jackson Hole often bring high and fast-moving water due to the snowmelt. Large rivers, such as the Snake River, swell, so it is vital to check conditions before heading out. Check river flow gauges and the weather forecast. Don’t be afraid to shift your tactics while fishing at higher water. Focus on slower back eddies, side channels, and calmer sections of the river. Fish seek out those areas to rest and feed.
Pay Attention to What the Fish are Eating
As the temperatures warm, aquatic insects start to hatch in large numbers, especially midges, blue-winged olives, and caddis flies. Observe what is flying around you or floating on the surface of the water; this will give you insight into which flies to use. Don’t rely solely on dry flies; try stonefly nymphs or flashy streamers when the water is high and off-color due to the run-off.
Use the Right Gear
In fast or stained water, go heavier on your tippet and use weighted flies. Wading boots with good traction are a must. Always bring layers; spring weather in Jackson Hole is unpredictable.
Respect Spawning Closures
Be mindful and respect any seasonal closures. Many cutthroat trout spawn in May and June, and protecting these fish is an essential part of keeping Jackson Hole’s rivers healthy and lively. Check Wyoming Game & Fish websites for regulations and updates.
Hire a Local Guide, It’s Worth It!
If you’re new to the area, new to fly fishing, or just want to maximize your time and have a successful fishing experience, booking a guided fly fishing trip in Jackson Hole might be the best decision you can make. Our guides knows where the fish are holding, what they’re feeding on, and how to safely navigate runoff conditions. In spring conditions that change daily, your guide will have the knowledge and experience to take a lot of the guesswork out of your trip. In a place like Jackson Hole, a guide is an investment worth making.
Why Book a Guided Trip in May or June?
Fishing during the shoulder season can be incredibly productive, but also challenging. At The Wandering Angler, we offer guided fly fishing trips in Jackson Hole designed for all skill levels. Whether you’re new to fishing or looking for early-season trophy opportunities, we’ll tailor your experience to the conditions and your goals.
Our guided walk and wade trips are a great way to access smaller, more fishable water during spring. And our float trips allow you to cover more water and reach stretches that others can’t.
Spring fly fishing in Jackson Hole is as dynamic as it is rewarding. May and June bring changing conditions, active hatches, and unique opportunities to connect with the rivers of the Tetons. By watching flows, matching the hatch, respecting spawning closures, and using the right gear, you’ll set yourself up for success during this transitional season.
And if you want to take the guesswork out of it, booking a guided fly fishing trip in Jackson Hole is one of the best ways to make the most of your time on the water. Whether it’s a scenic float or a walk-and-wade adventure, spring is the perfect time to start your season in the Tetons.
FAQS About Spring Fly Fishing in Jackson Hole
Is May a good time to fly fish in Jackson Hole?
Yes, May can be a productive time to fly fish in Jackson Hole, especially in smaller tributaries and higher-elevation creeks. While runoff typically begins mid-month and affects water clarity in major rivers like the Snake, side channels, lakes, and spring creeks remain fishable. May also marks the tail end of the Skwala hatch and the beginning of Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) activity.
What flies work best in Jackson Hole in May and June?
Having a mix of nymphs, streamers, and dry flies gives you flexibility during changing conditions. Top fly patterns for May and June include:
Blue-Winged Olives (BWO)
Skwala Stoneflies (early May)
Caddisflies
Midges
Pat’s Rubber Legs
Woolly Buggers (especially during off-color water)
Is it safe to wade fish during spring runoff?
Wade fishing during runoff requires caution. Water levels can rise quickly, currents are stronger, and riverbanks may be unstable. Always check stream flows in advance, wear proper gear, and consider fishing with a partner or local guide.
