Back Lake Hex Hatch Update: 6/19

The weather sure has changed here in New Hampshire’s north country over the last two days. From temps in the mid-70’s last week to temps in the mid to high 40’s yesterday and today, with a healthy blow from the north. Yes, it feels more like May, or even October out there, as we have taken a brief break from summer.

What does this all mean for the annual emergence of Back Lake’s hexagenia population? While human logic might indicate that the colder temperatures and blowing wind might delay the hexes, which typically hatch best when it’s hot and humid, it appears that the cold front did not deter them from doing their thing out there last night. Much like the birth of a baby, the hexagenia will hatch when they’re ready to hatch, no matter the weather conditions.

While there is very little evidence that there was much of a hatch here by the lodge, a reputable source of mine on the southeastern side of the lake woke to a multitude of hexes all over his boat this morning. Coincidentally, that is the direction that the wind was blowing yesterday, and the gusts apparently blew a bunch of the “little sailboats” down that way last night.

The wind is still gusting mightily out there today, but it is supposed to die off a bit this evening. Oh, it’s also going to be 35 degrees later on tonight, so bring along your warm weather gear and maybe a flask of your favorite firewater to keep yourself warm and lubricated. So, the hatch has started, but I expect more angler-friendly weather later on this week …

Recommended Hex Patterns

Notice the myriad of hexes in that image from last night – some dark, some lighter, indicating that there may not be just one fly that works during the hatch. There have been many posts on which patterns to use at what time – check them out to get more insight.

Get a selection and switch it up if things aren’t working.

Duns: Mimic May Hex, Foam Hex, Sexy Hex, Stimulator, Hex Adult Deer Body, Hex Spinner, Hex Dun

Emergers: A.P. Emerger, Woodduck Heron, Sparrow Tan or Olive, Hex Emerger, Hex Wiggle Nymph, Brown Owl

Cripples: Emma Nymph, Popcorn Cripple, Flutterglow Hex, Hex Cripple