For me fly fishing in May is the most difficult time. Our winters are cold enough to make me feel like a couch potato. Springtime means getting the engines to fire on all cylinders. My best friend, my body, has not been completely forgotten.  I have, all winter been hiking, fishing, moving forward every chance I had. The next important component about getting fired up for spring is mental. Those that fish all year, usually don't miss a beat when this season begins. Those that haven't, need to re-think gear, technique and do some planning. My equipment was upgraded this winter, a new reel and rod have given me a chance to work on my casting.  Comparing set-ups, helps me with the feeling of my equipment. Knots need to be practiced, and checked every time. Flies need to be sorted and organized. Clippers, tippet, leaders, flotant, forceps, repellent, among other details all need to be accounted for.
Fishing license?  If your game warden is as active as ours, do not forget. It's really bad to have to turn the truck around to go back and just because you forgot to buy a licence.
Speak to your significant "other" about having fishing time together if you don't already. More time on the water is a bonus.
My final words...Never be surprised! One never knows for certain what the fish will do,or how the river will flow!

Spring fishing on the Blackfoot is very challenging 

The Westslope Cutthroat Trout

The river moves fast during  May, this season it is much lower than normal...

Returning to the river spots that were favorites in the past is really a treat.  Logs have moved, The beavers have been busy, .................................   Selecting the fly is always a challenge. The river is always changing.  Insect hatches and feeding fish are the easiest ways to help choose a fly. Otherwise, try a range of generic flies. see if anything turns a fish. You will know quickly what will work. On the other hand, if no fish are rising, and no bugs are coming off the water, a bit more searching may be needed. Midges, nymphs, terrestrials? Smelling a skunk? Take a walk and try another spot, or just kick back and relax.

Happy Cutthroat!

I used a #16 Parachute Adams

When you see this, you are in the game!

This stretch of freestone river is gin clear!

Cool trout loved the San Juan Worm

Bonus catch for Christine Plourde,  Deer antlers are awesome.!

Christine's first trout in Montana She used a caddis emerger.

Finally the trees have sprouted leaves, the willows are growing on the shoreline. 

 The Blackfoot River

I hope all my friends catch their fish with joy, and that the fishing gods smile.