October Caddis
Imitates: Adult Dicosmoecus caddis
Quick Reference
- Best Sizes
- #8-10
- Best Season
- September through November
- Best Conditions
- Western freestone rivers, fall flows, riffles and runs
- Water Temp
- 45-58°F
- Recommended Tippet
- 3X-4X
How to Rig It
Single dry, or as the dry in a big dry-dropper with a stonefly nymph.
How to Present It
Skate or twitch through riffles and pocket water. October caddis are big, clumsy adults — trout slash at them.
Why It Works
October caddis is the last big bug of the year on Western rivers. Trout get one last protein-packed meal before winter and eat them aggressively — especially big browns pre-spawn.
History
The October caddis hatch is a fall fishing tradition from the Pacific Northwest to the Rockies. Big bright-orange bugs trigger the year's last great dry fly bite.
Pro Tip
Don't just dead-drift it. Twitch it across the surface at the end of the drift — the skating action triggers vicious strikes from pre-spawn browns.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the October caddis hatch?+
Late September through November on Western rivers, with peak in October. Cool overcast days produce the best action.
Not sure if October Caddis is right today?
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