Why the Yellow Sally Stonefly Nymph is a Summer Essential

If you've spent any time on the water once the weather starts warming up, you've probably realized that having a yellow sally stonefly nymph in your fly box isn't just a good idea—it's pretty much mandatory. While everyone else is obsessing over the massive Salmonfly hatch or waiting for the evening caddis clouds, the smart move is often to look a little smaller and a lot yellower. These little stoneflies, often called "Sallies" by those of us who spend too much money on breathable waders, are the workhorses of the early summer river. ...

May 11, 2026 · 7 min · Gaucher Epstein