Reading stillwater is one of the most valuable skills a fly angler can develop. Unlike rivers, where current naturally dictates where fish hold, trout in lakes and reservoirs can move freely throughout the water. The challenge is understanding where they are likely to be feeding and why they have chosen that particular area.
Before assembling your rod, spend a few minutes simply watching the water. Look for rising fish, moving trout, wind lanes, bird activity, insect hatches and any obvious signs of feeding. Many anglers begin casting immediately, but a short period of observation often provides the clues needed to locate fish much more quickly.
Wind is one of the biggest influences on stillwater trout. It pushes food, oxygen and floating insects across the surface, often concentrating them along the windward bank or within distinct wind lanes. Trout regularly patrol these areas because they provide a reliable supply of food. Rather than avoiding the wind, learn to use it to narrow down where fish are most likely to be feeding.
The margins should never be overlooked. Trout frequently patrol surprisingly close to the bank, especially during the morning and evening, after stocking or whenever food is being blown against the shoreline. Many anglers cast straight into open water without first covering the water immediately in front of them, often missing fish that are only a few metres away.
Depth is another important consideration. Trout may be feeding just beneath the surface, suspended over deep water or close to the bottom. Conditions such as water temperature, light levels, insect activity and wind all influence where they will be. Before changing flies, establish the depth at which the fish are feeding.
Natural features also help concentrate trout. Weed beds, drop-offs, submerged points, islands, inflowing streams and changes in bottom depth all provide feeding opportunities. Weed beds support huge numbers of aquatic insects, while underwater drop-offs often act as patrol routes for cruising trout.
Bird life can provide valuable clues. Swallows and martins feeding low over the water often indicate hatching insects. Gulls may reveal concentrations of fry, while diving birds frequently highlight areas holding baitfish. Watching the wildlife is often as informative as watching the water itself.
Conditions change constantly throughout the day. A fresh breeze can move food to a completely different bank, cloud cover may encourage trout to move into shallower water and a hatch can suddenly pull fish towards the surface. Continue observing throughout your session rather than assuming the fish will remain in the same place.
At Peaks Fly Fishing, we encourage anglers to think like a trout. Ask yourself where the easiest meal is likely to be found, where the fish can feed comfortably and what has changed since your last cast. The answers are often already visible on the water if you take the time to look.
## Recommended Equipment
### Polarised Glasses
* Polarised glasses help reduce glare and make it easier to spot cruising trout, weed beds and underwater features.
### Notebook or Catch Diary
* Recording successful areas, depths, wind direction and conditions can help build a better understanding of your local waters over time.
## Peaks Fly Fishing Tips
* Spend a few minutes observing before making your first cast.
* Fish the margins before casting long distances.
* Let the wind guide you towards likely feeding areas.
* Solve the depth before changing flies.
* Keep watching throughout the day, as trout often change location as conditions change.