March Brown
March Brown Flies
The March Brown hatch is one of the most anticipated spring mayfly hatches on trout rivers across North America. Both Western species (Rhithrogena) and Eastern species (Stenonema / Maccaffertium) produce large mayflies that bring trout to the surface during warm spring afternoons. These insects are commonly found on freestone rivers and riffled water where trout feed aggressively during the hatch.
March Browns typically appear from April through early June, depending on water temperatures and location. During the hatch, trout often feed on emerging nymphs first, followed by adult mayflies drifting on the surface.
Below you’ll find our selection of March Brown fly patterns, tied in proven styles and sizes for trout waters across the United States.
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Flashback Hare's Ear-Beadhead
$0.99Original priceOriginal price $0.99 - Original price $0.99Original price$0.99 - $0.99Current price $0.99A great improvement on this all-time classic pattern. Many nymphs take on a very shiny appearance right before emerging. Trout key in on this vu...
View full details$0.99Original priceOriginal price $0.99 - Original price $0.99Original price$0.99 - $0.99Current price $0.99Value must be grater than or equal to 1. -
Foamback Emerger March Brown - Mayfly Dry Fly
$0.89Original price $0.99Original price $0.99 - Original price $0.99Original price $0.99$0.89 - $0.89Current price $0.89This fly was designed to be buoyant, will fish all day long. The March Brown is the first riffle-hatching mayfly of the season in the west. The ...
View full details$0.89Original price $0.99Original price $0.99 - Original price $0.99Original price $0.99$0.89 - $0.89Current price $0.89Save 10%Value must be grater than or equal to 1.
How to Fish March Brown Hatches
March Brown hatches are a classic spring event on rivers, with larger mayflies that often bring trout to the surface. Fish typically feed on nymphs and emergers before rising to adults.
- Start with nymphs before surface activity begins
- Fish emergers during the early stages of the hatch
- Switch to dry flies when trout are consistently rising
When March Brown Hatches Occur
March Brown hatches typically occur in spring and are influenced by water temperature and river conditions.
- Most common from March through May
- Often strongest in the afternoon during warmer weather
- Typically found on rivers with moderate to fast currents
Fly Selection Tips for March Brown
March Browns are larger mayflies, so size and profile matter more than with smaller hatches.
- Use larger dry flies (sizes 10–14) during active hatches
- Fish nymphs when trout are feeding below the surface
- Adjust presentation in faster water and riffles