Fly Guide · Fly of the Month · How To · Purple Haze · Spring Fishing Tips · Mar 29, 2023

Why Purple Fly Patterns Work So Well in Spring Runoff

Spring is an exciting time for fly fishing, as the warmer weather and longer days bring many fish species out of hibernation and into feeding mode. However, spring can also bring another challenge for fly anglers: runoff. As snow and ice melt, rivers and streams can become fast, murky, and unpredictable, making it more difficult to find and catch fish. But don't let the runoff discourage you! With the right tactics and gear, you can still have a successful day on the water. And if you're looking for a reliable way to catch fish during spring runoff, try using some purple fly patterns.

Why Purple Fly Patterns Work So Well

There are a few reasons why purple fly patterns are effective during spring runoff. First, purple is a highly visible color that can stand out even in murky water. As sediment and debris are swept downstream, fish may rely more on their sense of sight to locate food, and a bright purple fly can be just what they need to catch their attention.

Second, purple is a color that can imitate a variety of aquatic insects and other prey that fish are accustomed to feeding on in the spring. Mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies, and even small baitfish can all have purple hues or markings, so a purple fly can be a versatile choice for imitating a variety of food sources.

Finally, purple flies can simply be different from what other anglers are using. During spring runoff, fishing pressure can be high as many anglers take advantage of the prime fishing season. By using a unique color like purple, you may be able to entice fish that are wary of other, more common fly patterns.

10 Effective Purple Fly Patterns for Spring

Beadhead Purple Prince Nymph: A versatile and effective fly pattern for targeting trout during the spring season. The fly features a purple body made of peacock herl, which gives it a natural-looking shimmer and flash that can attract fish in both clear and murky water conditions. The addition of a tungsten beadhead not only helps the fly sink quickly to the feeding zone but also adds extra weight and action to the fly.
Beadhead Flash Purple Prince Nymph: A variation of the classic Prince Nymph, this pattern features a purple body made of peacock herl and a wing made of white biots. The addition of a tungsten beadhead and flash makes it effective in fast-moving water.
Tungsten Bead Purple Perdigon Jig: This heavy nymph pattern features a purple body and a tungsten beadhead. It can imitate a variety of aquatic insects and is effective in deep pools and runs.
Purple Haze: This dry fly pattern features a purple body made of dubbing and a white or gray wing made of deer hair. The Purple Haze is a great choice for imitating mayflies and other small insects that are common in the springtime.
Purple Woolly Bugger: This versatile pattern can be tied with a purple marabou tail and purple chenille body. It can imitate small baitfish, leeches, and other prey and is effective in deep pools and runs.
Purple Mohair Leech: This streamer pattern features a purple body made of mohair yarn and a marabou tail. It can imitate small baitfish and leeches and is effective in slow-moving water.
Purple Chubby Chernobyl: This foam dry fly features a purple body and white wing. It can imitate stoneflies and terrestrials and can be fished as a dropper or on its own.
Purple Zebra Nymph: This small nymph pattern features a purple body and silver wire ribbing. It can imitate midges and other small insects and is effective in slow-moving water.
Purple Peril: This streamer pattern features a purple and black body and a white marabou tail. The Purple Peril is a great choice for imitating small baitfish and can be fished on a sinking line in deep pools and runs.
Double Bead Ultra Worm Purple: This pattern is designed to mimic aquatic worms and can be particularly effective during periods of heavy spring rain and runoff. This versatile pattern is effective for catching both trout and bass in silty rivers, streams, and lakes. The Ultra Worm Purple fly can be a go-to choice for anglers looking to entice fish in murky water conditions.

When using these patterns, be sure to vary your retrieve and presentation to find what works best for the conditions you're fishing in. Also, consider using a strike indicator or a dropper to increase your chances of catching fish.

Of course, there are many other purple fly patterns that you can use in the springtime, including nymphs, emergers, and dries. The key is to experiment with different patterns and techniques until you find what works best for you and the fish in your area.

So, if you're looking for a way to add some excitement to your spring fishing, consider using some purple fly patterns. Whether you're targeting trout, bass, or panfish, these flies are sure to attract some attention and hopefully help you catch some fish. Happy Fishing & Tight Lines!