Summer Fly Fishing Ethics: Best Practices for Trout When Water Temps Rise

As fly anglers, we are privileged to experience the beauty of trout streams throughout the year. But with that privilege comes responsibility—especially during the heat of summer, when water temperatures can rise to levels that pose serious risks to trout populations. Understanding how to adapt your approach when the mercury climbs not only improves your fishing but also helps preserve the health of the fisheries we all love.

In this post, we’ll dive deep into the nuances of summer fly fishing when water temps get too warm. From when and where to fish, to how to handle trout safely, we’ll cover the best practices that every conscientious angler should follow.

And if you have more questions about water temps and trout behavior, don’t hesitate to call our team of veteran guides. We’re always happy to help you fish smarter—and more responsibly.

Why Water Temperature Matters for Trout

Trout are cold-water species. Their metabolism, stress levels, and ability to recover after being caught are all influenced by water temperature. When water gets too warm (generally above 68°F or 20°C), oxygen levels drop, and trout experience increased physiological stress. Hooking and handling trout in these conditions can be lethal—even with a quick catch and release.

Here’s a general breakdown of how trout respond to temperature:

• Below 65°F (18°C): Ideal. Fish are active and resilient.

• 65°F–68°F (18–20°C): Fishable, but with care. Keep handling to a minimum and reduce fight times.

• 68°F–70°F (20–21°C): Avoid targeting trout. High mortality rates, even with quick releases.

  
  

Taking Water Temperatures: When, Where, and How

To make responsible decisions, you need accurate water temps. Here’s how to do it right:

1. When to Take Temps

• Take readings right before you start fishing.

• Re-check every hour or so on hot days—temps can rise quickly by midday.

2. Where to Take Temps

• Use a stream thermometer and take the temperature mid-column, not at the surface.

• Avoid stagnant backwaters. Instead, measure in the main current, ideally at knee depth in a riffle or run.

3. Interpreting the Results

• If you’re seeing temps creeping toward 68°F, make a plan to finish up early.

• In tailwaters and spring creeks, temp fluctuations might be more subtle—so check both upstream and downstream to be sure.

• If you see temps hit 68 degrees or warmer, STOP FISHING

• If you see other anglers still fishing during warm temps, politely inform them of the status of the river and kindly encourage them to stop fishing.

Bonus Tip:

Use this as an opportunity to explore dawn hatches like tricos, caddis, and midges, which can make for world-class dry fly action in the early hours.

Adjusting Your Approach

If you’re fishing near the upper temperature threshold (65–68°F), make the following adjustments:

1. Use Stronger Tippet

• Go heavier (e.g., 3X instead of 5X) to land fish faster and reduce fight time.

2. Fish Barbless Hooks

• Barbless hooks make releases faster and less stressful.

3. Shorten the Fight

• Play fish quickly and get them in the net fast. Avoid long runs and deep bends in the rod.

4. Skip the Photo

• If temps are borderline, consider skipping the grip-and-grin. If you do snap a photo, keep the fish wet and in the net.

Safe Fish Handling in Warm Water

Handling fish safely is always important—but it’s critical in warm water.

Follow These Guidelines:

• Keep fish in the water as much as possible.

• Wet your hands before touching the fish.

• Use a rubber or silicone net to minimize scale and slime damage.

• Don’t squeeze the fish—support it gently under the belly and tail.

• Let the fish revive on its own—point its nose into the current and give it time to swim off strongly.

If the fish is struggling to recover, it’s a sign that the water may be too warm to safely continue fishing.

It’s Okay to Fish—When Conditions Allow!

There’s a common misconception that summer trout fishing must stop altogether. The truth is, you can absolutely fish in summer—you just need to be more mindful of conditions.

Trout still need to feed. Hatches are still happening. And if you’re out early, in the right water, and taking the proper precautions, you can enjoy spectacular fishing while protecting the resource.

Responsible fishing isn’t about shame or guilt—it’s about education and stewardship. The more we know, the better choices we make on the water.

When in Doubt, Ask the Experts

Have questions about current conditions, where to fish, or how to measure temps?

Call our team of veteran guides.

We live and breathe trout fishing, and we’re always happy to share the latest insights on local waters, safe practices, and seasonal strategies. We’ll help you find the best cold-water opportunities so you can enjoy a successful—and sustainable—summer on the river.

Tight lines, and thanks for fishing responsibly.

Your good decisions today help ensure that our trout fisheries stay healthy for tomorrow.

-The CRO Team