5 Must-Know Tips for Fishing Runs Like a Pro
Written By Trent Jones
Runs might not have the flashy riffles or calm pools that scream “trout,” but they’re where the magic happens. These deeper, uniform sections of the river are home to hungry fish—if you know where to look. In this guide, we’re diving into how to fish runs effectively, uncovering the tricks that will put you on the trout in these seemingly bland spots
Understanding Runs:
Runs are deeper sections of the river where water moves uniformly and consistently, making them less visually obvious than other types of water (e.g., riffles or pools).
The main characteristics of runs are:
They are generally deeper than riffles.
The flow is uniform, with no surface disturbance like riffles.
They lack the obvious surface indicators (like foam lines or ripples) that would normally show where fish are holding.
Where Fish Hang in Runs:
Fish like to hide in calm pockets created by rocks and debris where they can rest and feed with minimal effort.
They wait for food to drift past in faster-moving sections of water.
Finding Key Features in a Run:
Look for seams and foam lines (which are subtle but often present).
Identify depth changes in the water, as deeper sections are often darker and more likely to hold fish.
Watch for any visible rocks, debris, or transition points, as these often indicate good spots for fish.
Taking the time to observe the water and wait for any rising fish can also give you clues about what might be happening below the surface.
Approach to Fishing Runs:
Always start fishing the water closest to you before working your way farther out (close to far).
Use a systematic approach, like imagining a grid, to ensure you cover the entire run without missing any potential spots.
Focus on areas where the water changes, such as transitions from shallow to deep or where the speed of the current changes.
Recommended Rig and Techniques:
A dry-dropper setup is ideal for fishing runs, allowing you to target both fish feeding on top and those feeding below the surface.
If you're using nymphs, make sure to get your flies deep enough into the strike zone.
A two-nymph rig beneath an indicator is also a great choice, especially if you're not as experienced with dry flies.
