Trout go into a feeding frenzy on ants hatching near the Black River

Through the summer here in central New York fly fisherman are treated with some very nice hatches, which provide some excellent fly-fishing.  The Sulfurs can be heavy on a number of the smaller streams.  There are some nice hatches of caddis throughout the summer and the Trico hatch on various streams provides some good morning action through July and August.   The mayfly and caddis hatches can be heavy at times, but possibly the most prolific hatch I have ever seen in central New York did not involve mayflies or caddis.

It has happened to me only twice, but both occasions have stuck in my mind.  Once on the Black River and once on my beloved Sauquoit Creek I witnessed trout go into a complete feeding frenzy selectively focusing on an insect that does not even hatch from the water.  They are flying ants and the trout love them.  I have only seen it a few times, but it was spectacular.  The trout were totally focused on the insects and the rises seemed reckless and uncontrolled. It almost seemed like they knew it was a treat and does not happen often.

The hatch happened in August both times and one time I even witnessed the emergence.  There was a hole in the ground about 50 yards from the stream.  On a dry hot breezy summer day on my way to the water I noticed a steady stream of insects emerging from the ground. Upon closer examination I identified the insects as flying ants.   When I arrived at the water I could not believe my eyes the water was boiling with rises as the ants where blown onto the water.  The fish were not only the smaller fish either.  The ants seemed to draw out some of the larger fish. 

This is one hatch you can not rely on, but it is a strong recommendation that fly anglers in central New York carry a few flying ant imitations in their box all summer long.  If you are lucky enough to hit this hatch, it will be one of the most exciting hatches you will fish.