Keep at it Jerole,
This is a part of the challenge that at times can be difficult for the best. In some ways though, I would say that it may be a little easier for a new angler when there isn't a specific hatch that the fish are super keyed into. There may be times where there just isn't a lot going on bug wise; in this case attractors (dries or nymphs) can sometimes get some attention. You've picked a couple of fisheries that are known to be a bit more challenging, so if you're not having success there don't be too discouraged.
Bill's suggestion on a day with a guide is spot on, though good books and internet resources will help. Not quite like time on the water with a good guide, but helpful still. If it were me, I would focus much more of my efforts on two very key points:
-learn where the fish hang out, and be sure to spend your time fishing to actively feeding fish rather than water that just doesn't tend to hold fish. This means not just what hole to fish, but where (and when). Sometimes fish are looking up, and you can catch them up on top... other times you need to get right down on the bottom.
-work on your presentation. There are many variations, depending on how/what/when/where you're fishing; but a good one for dry flies and for nymphs is the dead drift. Learn to read your water, and co-ordinate your casting and your line mending to ensure that your fly is getting a drag free drift. Even educated fish will hit a less than perfect imitation (or even something that is just "curious" looking) if it is perfectly presented; on the other hand even a perfectly tied pattern of the exact insect they are feeding on will usually go ignored when not presented well.
The other big one to pay a lot of attention to, especially as the season changes here, is water temperature. Colder water really changes things, in general the fish will not move as far for a fly so you need to put your fly at their depth (usually, but not always, on the bottom). Flipping over rocks is one way to check for bugs, getting a seine and using it can be very helpful at times as well. Seines can be used to check various points in the water column and get a decent idea if anything is beginning to hatch, as well as what's being stirred up off the bottom. Sorry if any of this was stuff you had already heard/read before, but since you mention being pretty green those are some things I would worry about first and foremost if I were in your shoes. Also bear in mind that Fly fishing produces lots of satisfaction that goes far beyond the fish we catch, and know that if you keep at it the fish will come. Plenty of fish in in due time... Though I am far from being one of the more experienced anglers here, you can feel free to ask as many questions as you need, I'm happy to help in any way I can as many others helped me. PM if you need any further help.
Best of luck,
JB
"Lord help me to be the person my dog thinks I am"
- unknown
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