Fall gets a mixed box in our guide: small nymphs for the quiet stretches, mayfly and caddis options for a hatch, and an egg pattern to consider as the season changes. Observation matters more than trying to make every pattern work in one afternoon.
What goes in the fly box
These patterns and hook sizes come from our cabin guidebook. Treat them as a starting selection, then adjust to the water, insects, and fish you actually observe.
| Fly | Hook size | When we consider it |
|---|---|---|
| Pheasant Tail | 18 | A small nymph to start with or return to. |
| Parachute Adams | 18 | A dry-fly choice when a mayfly hatch brings surface feeding. |
| Elk Hair Caddis | 14–16 | A surface option during caddis activity. |
| Sow bug | 14–16 | A staple for the quieter periods between hatches. |
| Egg pattern | 14–16 | A seasonal option away from active spawning beds; protect redds and spawning fish. |
| Zebra Midge | 18–20 | Keep a smaller nymph available for a subtle presentation. |
| Hare’s Ear | 14–16 | A general nymph for overlapping mayfly and caddis activity. |
| Caddis Pupa | 14–16 | An alternative beneath the surface during caddis activity. |
Match the activity, then simplify
Start by deciding whether fish are feeding on top or below it. For mayfly activity, the guide suggests a Pheasant Tail with an RS2, WD40, or soft hackle. For caddis, consider a Caddis Pupa or Hare’s Ear. These can be individual choices; do not assume a two-fly rig is allowed at every access.
A rig to start with
For a permitted two-nymph setup, the guide starts with a 9-foot 4X leader, 18–24 inches of 5X to the upper fly, and 12–18 inches of 5X or 6X to the lower fly. Keep a single-fly version ready for water with stricter hook-count rules.
When to change the plan
If the hatch fades, a sow bug or Zebra Midge keeps the next decision easy. If you choose an egg pattern, find water away from active spawning beds. Do not walk on gravel nests, cast directly over them, or target actively spawning fish. A good fall trip should leave the next generation of trout undisturbed.
Make a plan for the water
Little Red Overlook is immediately beside the Lobo Landing boat ramp. Arrange a boat or guide, or drive to an appropriate public access for wading. The cabin does not offer casual bank or dock fishing. Our access guide and notes on slow water help with that part of the trip.
Check the Greers Ferry generation schedule and actual conditions. Published release schedules are estimates and can change.
Adapted from the Little Red Overlook guest guide. Published October 11, 2026. These are seasonal selections, not a promise of a hatch, safe wading, or current catch conditions.
Planning for another season?
For streamers and other alternatives, see the year-round fly box.
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