Skwala Stonefly

Overview: The Skwala Stonefly is a medium-sized stonefly that hatches in early spring, often before the water warms enough for other major hatches. Found in cold, rocky streams and rivers in the western United States, Skwalas are a crucial food source for trout emerging from winter dormancy. Their subdued olive and brown coloration, combined with their early-season activity, makes them a favorite target for anglers looking to kick off the fishing season.

Nymph Stage: Skwala nymphs are slender and measure 3/4 to 1 inch in length. Their bodies are dark olive to brown with faint yellowish highlights and prominent wing pads. Nymph patterns tied on hook sizes 8 to 12, with size 10 being the most common, effectively mimic their size and coloration. Dead-drift nymphs along the bottom near riffles and shallow runs, focusing on pre-emergence migration areas close to shorelines.

Adult Stage: Adult Skwala Stoneflies range from 3/4 to 1 inch in length, with olive-brown bodies and translucent wings that lie flat over their abdomens. Dry fly imitations tied on hook sizes 8 to 12, typically size 10, are ideal. They crawl to shorelines to emerge and later return to the water to lay eggs, often in the late afternoon. Drift or skate dry fly patterns along the edges of the river, focusing on warmer days when adults are most active. Trout often strike aggressively during these early-season hatches.