Carter Notch Road Crossingson Wildcat River
Conditions right now
No USGS gauge is linked to this water yet, so we can't chart flows.
Clear skies and cooler temperatures
- 01Clear skies and cooler temperatures, but USGS flow data is unavailable.
- 02Active hatches of Autumn Caddis, Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs), and Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) expected.
- 03Isonychia nymphs are actively drifting subsurface.
- 04Focus on deeper pools and lower reaches for Brown Trout; headwaters and pocket water for Brook Trout.
- 05Practice stealth and ensure natural drifts with nymphs and accurate presentations for dry flies to spooky fish.
What to tie on at Carter Notch Road Crossings
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Hendrickson Nymph
Hendricksons are a key early spring hatch in White Mountains freestone streams, making this nymph a primary subsurface food source for trout.
March Brown Dry
March Browns are actively hatching in early spring across New Hampshire, providing a significant dry fly opportunity for rising trout on the Wildcat River.
Mother's Day Caddis
The prolific Mother's Day Caddis hatch is expected in late April through May. This dry fly is a perfect imitation for the larger adult caddis that will be active.
San Juan Worm
Given the current dense drizzle, aquatic worms are likely being washed into the Wildcat River. This pattern is highly effective year-round, especially after rainfall or runoff.
Buy at AmazonFlashback Pheasant Tail Nymph
An excellent general searching nymph for early spring, this pattern mimics various mayfly nymphs that are active year-round and particularly as BWOs begin to emerge.
Mayer's Mini Leech
Small leech patterns effectively mimic sluggish baitfish and annelids in the Wildcat's cold spring water, enticing strikes from larger, more lethargic trout.
Hendrickson
As Hendrickson nymphs become active, adults will begin to emerge. This is an excellent dry fly choice for trout looking up for emerging adults in early spring.
Buy at AmazonBlue-Winged Olive (BWO) Comparadun
Blue-Winged Olives are hatching in early spring, especially on overcast and drizzly days like these. This low-profile dry fly is excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults.
Buy at AmazonGreen Drake Wulff
Peaks in mid-June in White Mountains freestone streams, providing a large meal for opportunistic trout. Still relevant in late June for lingering hatches.
Buy at AmazonNew Hampshire season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.