Sulphur
The sulphur hatch is the defining hatch of the Eastern trout season. Emerging in the late afternoon and evening from May through July, sulphurs bring the biggest, wariest fish to the surface. The spinner fall — often after dark — can be even more productive than the dun hatch itself.
Top fly patterns
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Month-by-month activity
Number of rivers where the Sulphur hatch is active each month.
Rivers where Sulphur hatches
How to fish the Sulphur
Fish a size 16–18 Sulphur Comparadun or parachute pattern during the dun hatch. After dark, switch to a Sulphur Spinner with rust-colored wings laid flat. 6X tippet and drag-free drifts are mandatory on educated fish.
Frequently asked
When does the Sulphur hatch?
Peak emergence: May, June, July. Timing varies by elevation, latitude, and water temperature.
What flies match the Sulphur hatch?
Top patterns: Parachute Adams (size 14-20); Sulphur Comparadun (size 16-18); Pheasant Tail Nymph (size 12-20); Soft Hackle (Partridge & Orange) (size 12-16).
What rivers have a good Sulphur hatch?
Sulphur hatches are documented on 17 rivers including: Farmington River, Housatonic River, Salmon River, Willimantic River, Naugatuck River and 12 more.
How do I fish the Sulphur hatch?
Fish a size 16–18 Sulphur Comparadun or parachute pattern during the dun hatch. After dark, switch to a Sulphur Spinner with rust-colored wings laid flat. 6X tippet and drag-free drifts are mandatory on educated fish.
What is the Sulphur?
The sulphur hatch is the defining hatch of the Eastern trout season. Emerging in the late afternoon and evening from May through July, sulphurs bring the biggest, wariest fish to the surface. The spinner fall — often after dark — can be even more productive than the dun hatch itself. Family: Mayfly (Ephemerellidae).
Related
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