Hoppers and crickets are terrestrial insects that represent a very large part of the diet for the trout in the Shenandoah National Park. The timing of their appearances dovetails nicely with reduction in densities of aquatic insects. There is definitely some overlap in the seasonal appearances between the aquatic and terrestrial insects. However, during the summer and fall, when sizeable aquatic insects are scarce, many of the land-born insect populations are at their peaks.
I have used many hoppers and crickets on streams in the Rockies, or spring creeks in Pennsylvania, and even on the smallmouth rivers near my home in Virginia. Crickets are early risers so fish them tight to the banks in the early morning. Fish hopper patterns along the sides of the streams where the wind is blowing the naturals into the water. Sometimes a twitching action on the fly will prompt a solid strike very quickly. These patterns are productive from June to late fall.
Recommended Hoppers & Crickets for Trout
Hopper & Cricket for Smallmouth Bass
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different patterns and sizes whether you are fishing small streams, large streams or even in ponds. Visit our website for more information.