Fly Fishing Seasons in Dullstroom

A Local Guide to the Best Months for Trout, Hatches, and Fly Choice

Wondering when the best time is to fly fish in Dullstroom? You're not alone. South Africa's premier trout destination offers rewarding fly fishing year-round—but every season offers something different. Here's a local guide's month-by-month breakdown of what to expect and how to prepare.

Also check out our: Best Dry Flies For Dullstroom Page Here



Seasonal Fly Fishing Overview


Season Conditions Fly Types Tips
Autumn
(Mar–May)
Cooling water, stable weather, aggressive trout Stimulators, olive hoppers, small streamers Prime time for dry flies and big browns in shallows
Winter
(Jun–Aug)
Cold mornings, clear water, spooky fish Small nymphs, midge emergers, black buggers Use long leaders, sight fish late mornings
Spring
(Sep–Nov)
Warming temps, insect hatches begin Parachute Adams, mayfly imitations, beetles Trout feed higher in the column—perfect for dries
Summer
(Dec–Feb)
Warmer water, afternoon storms Hoppers, ants, terrestrial combos Fish early morning and post-storm evenings

Month-by-Month Insights

March–May:

Stable weather and cooling waters trigger aggressive feeding before winter. It’s a great time for dry/dropper rigs and prospecting with large dries like hoppers and stimulators.

🌤️ Weather & Water Conditions:

  • Stable atmospheric conditions reduce wind and surface disturbance, leading to calmer, clearer waters.
  • Water clarity improves, making sight fishing more rewarding (but requiring more stealth).
  • Moderate water temperatures (10–15°C) put trout in an ideal feeding range, increasing movement and energy.
  • 🎣 Trout Behavior:

    🪰 Fly Selection & Tactics:

    Dry/Dropper:
    Start with a high-floating dry like a Stimulator or Hopper, and drop a small nymph or emerger about 12–24 inches below. This combo covers both surface and subsurface feeders in one cast.

    Top Dry Flies:

    Effective Droppers:

    🔍 Pro Tips:


    📸 Bonus Insight:

    Guided sessions in March–May often yield the largest brown trout of the year, particularly during overcast days following mild cold fronts.



    June–August:

    Cold, clear conditions. Trout become more cautious, so small, precise nymphs and long leaders are key. Midday activity peaks as water warms slightly.

    🌡️ Weather & Water Conditions:

    🐟 Trout Behavior:

    Plan Your Trip with a Local Guide

    As Dullstroom's seasonal changes shift trout behaviour, having the right flies—and local insights—can make or break your day. Book a guided trip and let us match you to the hatch.

    🎣 Book Your Seasonal Trip Now