A Mother's Day Tradition

A Mother's Day Tradition

The Magic of Mother's Day Caddis

What is the Mother's Day Caddis?

Caddis Fly

The Mother's Day Caddis isn't just a clever name - it's a remarkable natural phenomenon that typically occurs around Mother's Day in Oregon's rivers. These caddisflies (Brachycentrus americanus), also known as the American Grannom, create one of spring's most anticipated hatches for fly anglers. The emergence of these bugs in massive numbers is a sight to behold and offers some of the year's most exciting dry fly fishing opportunities.

When and Where to Find Them

Here in Oregon, the American Grannom begins emerging in late April, with peak activity often coinciding with Mother's Day in early May. The hatch can last several weeks, providing ample opportunities for anglers to experience this remarkable event. Look for activity during the warmest parts of the day, particularly in the afternoon hours when water temperatures are optimal for emergence.

Tips for Fishing the Mother's Day Caddis Hatch

Looking to get prepared to tackle this hatch with Mom this Mother's Day?  Here are a couple great tips for you both to make it a suc

  1. Time your fishing for the warmest part of the day
  2. Look for massive swarms of adults around streamside vegetation
  3. Don't overlook the pupae stage - fish often key in on emerging insects
  4. Keep multiple life cycle stages in your fly box (pupae, emergers, adults)

The Perfect Mother's Day Gift Guide for Fly Fishing Moms

With Mother's Day just around the corner, are you looking for something new and unique to give your mom for Mother's Day?  Maybe you are a mom and want to give your kids some ideas this year rather than getting things you don't want!  We've got you covered!

For the Beginning Fly Fisher

Women in fly fishing has grown 25% since 2006 and now female fly anglers makeup 31% of the fly fishing community!  I you are a mom this year and been interested in fly fishing, this is the perfect year to start!

NWFFO has a new and growing Women in Fly Fishing Program, connecting you with other female fly anglers, and you can get started with some of these affordable setups!

For the Experienced Angler

Is your mom already an experienced angler and you really want to thank her?  Here are some other great ideas for gifts that cost a little bit more, but will show her you care!

Easy Gift Bag Stuffers:

Already got mom a big gift or working on a smaller budget and looking for some smaller, but thoughtful gift bag stuffers?  We've got you covered on these essentials every mom angler needs!

For All Moms

  • NWFFO Gift Card - Let mom choose her perfect gear
  • Custom fly box filled with Mother's Day Caddis patterns (call us and we'll get it setup)

Elk Hair CaddisEssential Flies for the Mother's Day Caddis Hatch

  • Elk Hair Caddis in appropriate sizes
  • X-Caddis patterns
  • Sparkle Pupa
  • CDC Caddis Emerger
  • McKenzie Caddis patterns (for when Arctopsyche grandis is active)

A Special Note to Our Fly Fishing Moms

To all the moms who wade our rivers, tie our flies, and share their passion for fly fishing - Happy Mother's Day! You make our sport richer and more inclusive. We're proud to be your local fly shop and support your angling adventures.

Ready to Celebrate?

Stop by Northwest Fly Fishing Outfitters at 10910 NE Halsey St, Portland, to pick up the perfect Mother's Day gift or book a special guided trip. Our team is ready to help you select the perfect present for the fly fishing mom in your life.

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