Battenkill River Fishing Report

Fishing Conditions: Good

Water Temp: 48-51F

Flows are good and water temps are climbing thanks to a stretch of warm weather. We’re starting to see the first hatches of the season—Blue Quills are beginning to pop, and Hendricksons are now making an appearance. With this warm spell ahead, we expect hatches to ramp up. Trout are starting to look up, so it’s time to have your dry fly rod ready and keep an eye out for rising fish.

Until surface action picks up more consistently, nymphs and emergers are still your best bet. Focus on early-season patterns like Pheasant Tails, Hare’s Ears, and other mayfly nymphs. Try swinging a soft hackle or fishing a Caddis Emerger just below the surface. Target softer water near structure, undercut banks, or slow edges where fish can hold without expending much energy. Lead with a heavier fly to get down quickly and trail a smaller pattern that matches early-season mayflies.

Recommended Flies
Dry Flies (early season):
• Blue Quill Parachute – size 16–18
• Hendrickson Comparadun – size 12–14
• Hendrickson Sparkle Dun – size 12–14

Nymphs:
• Tungsten Stonefly – size 8–12
• Pheasant Tail Nymph – size 14–18
• Hare’s Ear Nymph – size 14–18