A hatch chart for fly fishing the Lehigh River in Pennsylvania identifyies the key insect species that emerge throughout the year and matching them with the appropriate fly patterns.
The Lehigh River is known for its diverse insect life, including mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, and midges.
Below is a general hatch chart to help you plan your fly fishing trips:
Lehigh River Fly Fishing Hatch Chart
Early Spring (March – April)
- Insects:
- Blue-Winged Olives (Baetis) – Size 18-22
- Midges – Size 18-24
- Early Black Stoneflies – Size 14-16
- Quill Gordons – Size 12-14 (less common)
- Fly Patterns:
- Parachute Adams (18-22)
- Zebra Midge (black, red, or olive, 18-24)
- Pheasant Tail Nymph (18-22)
- Black Stonefly Nymph (14-16)
- Quill Gordon Dry Fly (12-14)
Late Spring (May – June)
- Insects:
- Hendricksons (Ephemerella subvaria) – Size 12-14
- March Browns (Stenonema vicarium) – Size 10-12
- Caddisflies (various species) – Size 14-18
- Sulphurs (Ephemerella dorothea) – Size 14-16
- Green Drakes (Ephemera guttulata) – Size 8-10 (sporadic)
- Fly Patterns:
- Hendrickson Dry Fly (12-14)
- March Brown Dry Fly (10-12)
- Elk Hair Caddis (14-18)
- Sulphur Comparadun (14-16)
- Green Drake Dry Fly (8-10)
- Hare’s Ear Nymph (12-16)
Summer (July – August)
- Insects:
- Tricos (Tricorythodes) – Size 20-24 (early morning)
- Terrestrials (ants, beetles, grasshoppers) – Size 10-16
- Caddisflies – Size 14-18
- Midges – Size 18-24
- Yellow Sallies (stoneflies) – Size 14-16
- Fly Patterns:
- Trico Spinner (20-24)
- Ant Patterns (10-16)
- Beetle Patterns (10-14)
- Elk Hair Caddis (14-18)
- Zebra Midge (18-24)
- Yellow Sally Dry Fly (14-16)
Fall (September – November)
- Insects:
- Blue-Winged Olives (Baetis) – Size 18-22
- Isonychia (Slate Drake) – Size 10-12
- Caddisflies – Size 14-18
- Midges – Size 18-24
- October Caddis – Size 8-10
- Fly Patterns:
- Parachute Adams (18-22)
- Isonychia Nymph or Dry Fly (10-12)
- Elk Hair Caddis (14-18)
- Zebra Midge (18-24)
- October Caddis Dry Fly (8-10)
Winter (December – February)
- Insects:
- Midges – Size 18-24
- Blue-Winged Olives (Baetis) – Size 18-22 (on warmer days)
- Fly Patterns:
- Zebra Midge (18-24)
- Griffith’s Gnat (18-22)
- Parachute Adams (18-22)
- Pheasant Tail Nymph (18-22)
Additional Tips for Fishing the Lehigh River
- Water Conditions: The Lehigh River is a tailwater, so water releases from the Francis E. Walter Dam can significantly affect fishing conditions. Check flow rates before heading out.
- Nymphing: Nymphing is often the most productive method, especially during non-hatch periods. Use patterns like Pheasant Tails, Hare’s Ears, and Stonefly Nymphs.
- Streamers: Streamer fishing can be effective year-round, especially for larger trout. Try patterns like Woolly Buggers, Muddler Minnows, and Clouser Minnows.
- Terrestrials: In summer, don’t overlook terrestrial patterns like ants, beetles, and hoppers, especially near overhanging vegetation.
This hatch chart is a general guide and can vary depending on weather, water conditions, and specific sections of the river. Always observe the river for active insect activity and adjust your fly selection accordingly. Tight lines!
Looking for more information on fly fishing the Lehigh River? Check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing the Lehigh River.