Trinity River Fly Fishing Report – September Update
By Captain Brian Clemens
Hey folks, Captain Brian Clemens here with your Trinity River fly fishing report.
Current River Conditions
We just had a big spike in flows, but things have now settled at 450 CFS, where they’ll remain until October 15thbefore dropping to 300 CFS. This is a great window to get out here—the river has refreshed with a new push of fish, and they’re spreading into holding water and slowing down their movements.
Fishing Outlook
I’ve been up here for several days swinging for steelhead, and overall, fishing has been good to great, depending on location. Fish size has been impressive, ranging from fiery little half-pounders to full-on bruisers up to eight pounds.
These flows are creating excellent conditions for swinging flies. The fish are aggressive right now and moving well to the fly, which makes for exciting takes and strong fights.
Gear & Techniques
We’ve been fishing 5–6 weight Spey rods, running everything from Scandi setups to Scandi bodies with versatile and poly leaders. On top, flies like Muddlers, Muddler Euphoria, and Ska-Hoppers have all been producing. Stick to tapered leaders and light poly leaders for surface work.
For subsurface presentations, stay under 3 IPS sink rate. Productive flies include:
- Beadhead Assassin
- Brindle Bugs
- Girdle Bugs
- Benetelos
- Fall classics like the Euphoria
Keep your patterns buggy and natural, in size 5–7, nothing too oversized for this time of year.
Nymphing Options
While I’ve been focused on swinging, nymphing remains a solid option. Think stoneflies, caddis, and mayflies. Don’t be afraid to mix in a worm pattern (purple’s been sneaky good—shhh!).
Pro Tips
- Keep a thermometer handy. If temps creep over 67°F, give the fish a break. Focus your efforts early, fish until noon, then call it or move higher in the system.
- Remember: September 15th fly closure is coming up. Plan accordingly.
- With a healthy circulation of fish now in the system, expect another wave in the coming weeks.
Final Thoughts
There are tons of fish in the river, and conditions are shaping up beautifully for September. Whether you’re skating dries or swinging subsurface classics, this is one of the best times to be on the Trinity.
Hope you get out here and enjoy it. Tight lines, and God bless.
