March – River Fly Selection

March often marks the beginning of early spring river fishing in the UK, but conditions can vary widely depending on weather, water temperature, and river type.

As daylight increases, Large Dark Olives should begin to hatch more regularly on suitable rivers, although activity remains heavily dependent on temperature and river conditions. On colder days, hatches may be brief or absent altogether, while milder spells can bring short but worthwhile surface opportunities.

Where they are present, March Browns may begin to appear, most commonly on rivers in the North and on systems with established populations. These hatches are rarely prolific early in the month, but they can offer exciting dry fly fishing when conditions align.

Subsurface patterns remain important throughout March. Shrimp, louse, and early-season nymphs continue to account for fish, particularly when water temperatures are slow to rise or during periods between hatches. Fish are often still cautious and selective, making realistic imitations and careful presentation key.

The flies in this collection have been selected to reflect typical UK March river conditions, balancing early spring surface opportunities with the dependable subsurface patterns that remain effective throughout the month.

If you’re unsure which flies best suit your local river or current conditions, we’re always happy to help.