Putting it All together

To use or not to use an indicator, that is question. Or when to use it, and when not to. There are other times when I prefer not to use an indicator while using sub-surface flies. One is in very crystal clear water, when stealth is of utmost importance. I don't use one when fishing emergers either, their strikes are almost as easy to detect as dry fly fishing. And as mentioned above while trying to hook up on bottom they can interfere. Although there are ways around that problem. One is to use Palsa Strike Indicators. When using weight or flies treated with Xink, Palsa will go sub-surface, you can still see it, depending on water visibility. And it will still work. You can also adjust depth of leader below your indicator. If you are fishing depths around six or seven feet, make sure you have that much leader below indicator. I rarel have my indicator more than two feet below fly line anyway.

Rocks and logs also provide a fish a natural barrier. A place to hide, and a place to feed. Small pools created by large rocks are often an overlooked hiding spot for larger than average fish, that are actively feeding. They are worth a few casts, and rewards are worth casts that didn't turn anything up.

Other natural places to cast

Fish in big rivers are used to dealing with predators. Not just anglers, which they have to deal with as well. For that reason they need to feel secure. They love hind in undercuts from bank and/or islands. Deep water right next to bank is often best fished from downstream and csating up. This will minimize your chance of spooking them. Anytime I find water three foot or more in depth huggung bank, I give it a couple of casts.

Also look for fish under tree limbs. This is by far most frustraiting fishing you will have on big rivers. Normally provide ample casting room, and are generous with casting inaccuracies and back casts. But fishing under trees takes some patience, some expertise, and some luck. Often roll casts are called for, often an ability to read microcurrents is called for, and allow irver to deliever your fly to feeding fish. Stealth is name of game here, but if you make it a habit to practice, in no time, you will be hooking some very large trout.

Big rivers not only are home to larger fish, they are also home to swift currents, and lots of room for fish to run. Stouter than normal rods are recommended if not required. For trout use at least a 6 weight, you will be glad you did. It will also afford for longer casting. Stouter tippet is also needed, and a reel full of backing can be difference between landing that fish of a lifetime or breaking it off. Split shots or Xink will be needed if fishing sub-surface, as fish are likely to be hugging bottom.

One last word is on safety. Big rivers can be very swift, and very difficult to read. They can also have vicious drop offs. Wading staffs, and cleated or at felted wading boots are a must. If in doubt stay on bank. Plenty of great fishing is usually only a few feet off from edge.