Fishing the Skwala
Among the many hatches that occur throughout the year, the Skwala stonefly emergence stands out as a favorite for many fly fishers. Unlike the better-known mayfly hatches of summer or the blanket stonefly emergences of early spring, the Skwala hatch arrives when rivers are still waking from winter’s grip—often in late February through April.
Turbidity and Trout
Increased turbidity can significantly impact trout behavior, altering their feeding habits, movement patterns, and angling response. As water clarity decreases due to sediment, runoff, or algal blooms, trout rely more on their lateral line and scent detection rather than sight. They tend to favor slower-moving prey, seek cover in structured areas, and become less wary of predators. For fly fishers, adapting to these conditions with larger, high-contrast flies, slower presentations, and strategic positioning in current seams can greatly improve success. Understanding how turbidity influences trout can turn challenging conditions into rewarding fishing opportunities.