In the world of fly fishing, success often hinges on the selection and presentation of the right fly.
In this comprehensive guide, we dive into the fascinating world of fly fishing flies, exploring the various types and their unique applications in angling. From classic dry flies to enticing streamers, each pattern serves a specific purpose in enticing fish to strike.
We’ll also delve into essential accessories like tippets and floatant, as well as practical tips on fly maintenance and storage.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking to expand your repertoire or a beginner eager to dive into the world of fly fishing, join us as we unravel the secrets of flies and unlock the door to endless possibilities on the water.
Types Of Fly Fishing Flies
Dry Flies
Dry flies are a type of fly used in fly fishing that imitate insects that float on the surface of the water.
These flies are typically constructed with buoyant materials like feathers, fur, or synthetic materials that allow them to rest on the water’s surface without sinking.
Dry flies are designed to mimic various aquatic insects, such as mayflies, caddisflies, and midges, as well as terrestrial insects like grasshoppers and ants, which often fall onto the water’s surface.
Anglers use dry flies to target fish that are actively feeding on insects at or near the water’s surface, particularly trout and other freshwater species.
The presentation of dry flies involves casting the fly onto the water’s surface and allowing it to drift naturally with the current, mimicking the movement of real insects. When a fish rises to take the fly, anglers use a technique called “setting the hook” to quickly lift the rod and drive the hook into the fish’s mouth.
Dry fly fishing is often considered one of the most visually exciting and challenging forms of fly fishing, as anglers must carefully observe the behavior of fish and insects to effectively match the hatch and present the fly in a convincing manner.
It requires patience, skill, and a keen understanding of aquatic ecosystems, making it a rewarding pursuit for anglers of all levels.
Wet Flies
Wet flies are a type of fly used in fly fishing that imitate insects or other aquatic organisms that are submerged below the water’s surface.
Unlike dry flies, which float on the water’s surface, wet flies are designed to sink and imitate insects in various stages of their lifecycle, such as nymphs, emergers, or drowned adult insects.
Wet flies are typically constructed with materials that absorb water, causing them to sink when cast into the water. These flies often feature soft hackles, marabou, or other materials that impart lifelike movement underwater, enticing fish to strike.
Wet flies come in a wide range of patterns and sizes, designed to imitate the various aquatic insects and other prey items that fish feed on.
Anglers use wet flies to target fish that are feeding below the water’s surface, including trout, salmon, bass, and panfish. The presentation of wet flies involves casting the fly upstream or across the current and allowing it to drift downstream at the same depth as the fish’s feeding zone. Anglers may also use techniques such as swinging or stripping the fly to impart movement and trigger strikes from fish.
Wet fly fishing is a versatile and effective method for catching fish in a variety of water conditions and environments. It requires an understanding of aquatic insect behavior and fish feeding patterns, as well as the ability to adapt to changing conditions on the water. Wet fly fishing can be both challenging and rewarding, offering anglers the opportunity to connect with fish in their underwater world.
Nymphs
Nymphs are a type of aquatic insect in their immature stage of development, typically found in freshwater environments like rivers, streams, and lakes. In fly fishing, a nymph refers to both the natural insect and the artificial fly pattern used to imitate it.
Nymphs are aquatic insects that live underwater and undergo incomplete metamorphosis, meaning they hatch from eggs as nymphs and gradually develop into adults without a pupal stage. During this nymphal stage, they resemble miniature versions of the adult insect but lack wings. Nymphs inhabit various aquatic habitats, including the bottom substrate, rocks, vegetation, and debris, where they feed on algae, detritus, and other organic matter.
In fly fishing, nymph patterns are designed to imitate these aquatic insects and are typically constructed with materials that resemble the natural nymphs’ appearance and behavior underwater. Nymph flies may feature bead heads, weighted bodies, and realistic profiles to mimic the movement and appearance of the natural insects.
Anglers use nymph flies to target fish that are actively feeding on nymphs below the water’s surface, particularly trout and other freshwater species.
Nymphing techniques involve casting the fly upstream or across the current and allowing it to drift naturally with the current, mimicking the movement of drifting nymphs.
Streamers
Streamers are a type of fly used in fly fishing that imitate larger prey items such as baitfish, leeches, or crayfish.
Unlike dry flies and nymphs, which mimic aquatic insects, streamers are designed to imitate larger organisms that fish prey upon in freshwater environments.
Streamers are typically larger and heavier than other types of flies and are often constructed with materials that impart lifelike movement and action in the water, such as feathers, fur, or synthetic materials.
They may also feature weighted bodies, bead heads, or cone heads to help them sink and achieve the desired depth when retrieved.
Anglers use streamers to target a wide range of freshwater species, including trout, bass, pike, and muskellunge. The presentation of streamers involves casting the fly out and retrieving it with varying stripping techniques to mimic the movement of swimming prey.
Anglers may use techniques such as the “strip and pause” or “jerk strip” to impart erratic movements and trigger aggressive strikes from predatory fish.
Streamer fishing is often associated with aggressive strikes and visual excitement, as fish often attack streamers with ferocity.
It is a versatile and effective method for catching larger fish in a variety of water conditions and environments, from fast-flowing rivers to stillwater lakes.
Egg Flies
Egg flies are a type of fly used in fly fishing that imitates the eggs of fish, particularly salmon, trout, and steelhead.
These flies are designed to mimic the appearance and texture of fish eggs, which are a common and nutritious food source for many freshwater species.
Egg flies are typically constructed with materials that resemble the translucent, gelatinous texture of fish eggs, such as yarn, chenille, or plastic beads. They come in a variety of colors, including orange, pink, and chartreuse, which mimic the colors of natural fish eggs found in rivers and streams.
Anglers use egg flies to target fish during spawning seasons when fish are actively feeding on eggs deposited by spawning fish. These flies are particularly effective for steelhead and salmon fishing in rivers and streams, where fish congregate to spawn. The presentation of egg flies involves drifting the fly naturally with the current, mimicking the movement of drifting fish eggs.
Egg fly fishing requires patience, observation, and an understanding of fish behavior during spawning seasons. Anglers must also be mindful of regulations and ethical considerations regarding the use of egg flies, as they are often used to target fish during vulnerable periods in their life cycles. When used responsibly, egg flies can be an effective and rewarding way to catch fish in rivers and streams.
Squirmy Wormies
Squirmy wormies are a type of fly pattern used in fly fishing that imitates aquatic worms, particularly bloodworms or aquatic annelids. These flies are designed to mimic the slender, wriggling appearance of real worms, which are a common and highly nutritious food source for fish in freshwater environments.
Squirmy wormy flies are typically constructed with a soft, stretchy material called “squirmy wormy” or “squirmy worm body,” which gives them their name. This material has a lifelike texture and movement underwater, resembling the natural movement of real worms. Squirmy wormy flies are often tied with a simple hook and a few wraps of squirmy wormy material, making them easy to tie and highly effective in catching fish.
Anglers use squirmy wormy flies to target a variety of freshwater species, including trout, panfish, bass, and carp. These flies are particularly effective when fished near the bottom of rivers, streams, and lakes, where worms are commonly found. The presentation of squirmy wormy flies involves drifting or bouncing the fly along the bottom, mimicking the natural movement of worms as they wriggle along the substrate.
Squirmy wormy flies are popular among fly anglers for their simplicity, versatility, and effectiveness in catching fish. They are often used as a go-to pattern when other flies fail to produce results, making them a valuable addition to any angler’s fly box. However, anglers should be mindful of local regulations and ethical considerations regarding the use of squirmy wormy flies, as they may be restricted in some areas due to concerns about their impact on fish populations.
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View the ProductEmergers
Emergers are a type of fly pattern used in fly fishing that imitates aquatic insects in the transitional stage between nymph and adult. As aquatic insects prepare to hatch into their adult form, they often become trapped in the surface film of the water, where they are vulnerable to predation by fish. Emerger flies are designed to imitate these vulnerable insects as they struggle to break free from their nymphal shucks and emerge to the surface.
Emerger flies are typically tied with buoyant materials that help them float in the surface film of the water, mimicking the appearance of insects trapped in the surface tension. They may also feature trailing shucks, legs, or wings to imitate the struggling movements of emerging insects. Common materials used to tie emerger flies include CDC (cul de canard) feathers, antron, or polypropylene fibers.
Anglers use emerger flies to target fish that are actively feeding on emerging insects near the surface of the water. These flies are particularly effective during insect hatches, when fish key in on vulnerable insects struggling to emerge. The presentation of emerger flies involves casting the fly upstream or across the current and allowing it to drift naturally with the current, mimicking the movement of emerging insects.
Emerger fishing requires observation, patience, and an understanding of aquatic insect behavior. Anglers must carefully watch the water for signs of rising fish and emerging insects and be prepared to adjust their tactics accordingly. When fished effectively, emerger flies can produce exciting surface action and rewarding catches for fly anglers.
New York State, Best Beginner Fly Box
For beginner fly anglers in New York State, a good starter fly box should include a variety of fly patterns that imitate common insect species found in the region’s rivers, streams, and lakes. Here’s a recommendation for a beginner fly box tailored for New York State:
Dry Flies
- Adams (sizes 12-18)
- Elk Hair Caddis (sizes 12-18)
- Parachute Adams (sizes 12-18)
- Blue Winged Olive (sizes 16-20)
- Griffith’s Gnat (sizes 16-20)
Nymphs
- Pheasant Tail Nymph (sizes 12-18)
- Hare’s Ear Nymph (sizes 12-18)
- Prince Nymph (sizes 12-18)
- Copper John (sizes 12-18)
- Zug Bug (sizes 12-18)
Wet Flies
- Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail (sizes 12-16)
- Soft Hackle Hare’s Ear (sizes 12-16)
- Woolly Bugger (sizes 6-10 in black, olive, and brown)
- Zebra Midge (sizes 18-22)
- Bead Head Pheasant Tail (sizes 12-18)
Streamer Flies
- Mickey Finn (sizes 6-10)
- Muddler Minnow (sizes 6-10)
- Woolly Bugger (sizes 6-10 in black, olive, and brown)
- Clouser Minnow (sizes 6-10 in chartreuse/white, white, and olive/white)
- Sculpin patterns (sizes 6-10)
Egg Flies and Squirmy Wormies
Glo Bug (sizes 12-16 in various colors)
Squirmy Wormy (sizes 12-16 in red, pink, and chartreuse)
Specialty Flies
Hendrickson (sizes 12-16)
March Brown (sizes 12-16)
Green Drake (sizes 10-14)
Hexagenia (sizes 6-10)
Caddis Pupa (sizes 12-16)
Remember to choose fly sizes and patterns based on the specific waters and seasons you plan to fish in New York State.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to consult local fly shops or experienced anglers for recommendations tailored to your target species and fishing conditions.
With this diverse selection of flies, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle a variety of fishing scenarios and explore the rich angling opportunities that New York State has to offer.
Indicator/Bungs
Indicator or bungs, also commonly known as strike indicators, are small buoyant devices used in fly fishing to detect strikes from fish.
They are typically made of materials like foam, yarn, or plastic and are attached to the leader or tippet above the fly to help anglers visually detect subtle movements or changes in the water’s surface caused by fish taking the fly.
The primary purpose of indicators or bungs is to improve strike detection, particularly when fishing with nymphs or other subsurface flies. When a fish takes the fly, the indicator will either pause, twitch, or submerge, indicating a potential strike. This allows anglers to react quickly and set the hook, increasing their chances of hooking and landing fish.
Indicators or bungs come in various shapes, sizes, and colors to suit different fishing conditions and personal preferences. Some anglers prefer small, subtle indicators that provide minimal disturbance to the water’s surface, while others opt for larger, more visible indicators that are easier to see in challenging light conditions or rough water.
When using indicators or bungs, it’s important to adjust the depth and placement of the indicator based on the water depth, current speed, and the depth at which fish are feeding. By experimenting with different sizes and colors of indicators and adjusting their position accordingly, anglers can fine-tune their presentation and maximize their chances of success when fishing with nymphs or other subsurface flies.
Tippet
Tippet, an essential component of fly fishing tackle, extends the leader’s length, enabling anglers to present flies at greater distances from the fly line while fine-tuning presentation. Crafted from monofilament or fluorocarbon material, tippet comes in various diameters and strengths to suit different fishing conditions and target species.
Its sacrificial nature protects the more expensive leader and fly line from abrasion caused by contact with rocks, vegetation, or fish teeth. Additionally, tippet serves as a secure connection between the leader and the fly, tied using knots like the clinch knot or improved clinch knot.
Available in spools ranging from 0X to 8X, anglers select tippet size based on factors such as fly size, fish weight, and fishing environment. In essence, tippet is the invisible link between the leader and the fly, facilitating effective presentation and ensuring successful hooking and landing of fish in the artful pursuit of fly fishing.
Fly Fishing Floatant
Floatant is a substance used in fly fishing to treat artificial flies and make them more buoyant on the water’s surface. It is particularly useful for dry flies, which are designed to imitate insects floating on the water.
Floatant helps keep dry flies afloat by repelling water and preventing them from becoming waterlogged, which can cause them to sink and become less effective.
Floatant typically comes in the form of a liquid or paste and is applied directly to the fly before fishing. Anglers rub or spray the floatant onto the fly, thoroughly coating the fly’s surface to create a waterproof barrier that keeps it buoyant. Some floatants also contain drying agents or powders that help absorb excess moisture and enhance buoyancy.
In addition to treating dry flies, floatant can also be used to treat the leader and tippet to prevent them from sinking and dragging down the fly. This is particularly important when fishing with dry flies or nymphs in fast-moving or turbulent water where the leader and tippet may become wet and sink below the surface.
Overall, floatant is an essential tool for fly anglers, particularly those who specialize in dry fly fishing. By keeping flies buoyant and visible on the water’s surface, floatant helps anglers effectively present their flies and detect strikes from fish, leading to more successful and enjoyable fishing experiences.
How To Clear Fly Holes Of Glue Buildup
To clear fly tying holes of glue buildup, start by inspecting the tool to identify any obstructions. Using a small pin or needle, gently probe the holes to dislodge dried glue or debris, taking care not to force the pin too hard. Rotate the pin in a circular motion to help break up and dislodge the glue, continuing until the obstruction loosens and the hole clears.
Blow into the hole or use compressed air to remove any remaining debris, ensuring the hole is completely free of obstruction. Repeat the process if necessary, being patient and thorough to fully clear the hole. Finally, wipe down the tool to remove any remaining glue or debris, keeping it clean and functional for future use in fly tying endeavors.
How To Make Flies Last Longer
To make flies last longer and maintain their effectiveness, anglers can adopt several practices. Firstly, ensure flies are thoroughly dried after each fishing session to prevent mold and mildew growth. Handle flies with care to avoid damaging delicate materials or bending hooks, and inspect them regularly for signs of wear or damage.
Proper storage in dry, ventilated containers or fly boxes helps prevent moisture buildup and tangling. Treat dry flies with floatant before fishing and use desiccant afterward to absorb excess moisture. Rotate fly selection regularly to distribute wear evenly, and clean flies after fishing in saltwater or dirty conditions to prevent corrosion. By implementing these strategies, anglers can prolong the lifespan of their flies and enjoy continued success on the water.
How To Get Started Fly Tying
To get started with fly tying, first, gather essential tools and materials, investing in basic equipment to begin your tying journey. Then, familiarize yourself with fundamental techniques through online tutorials, books, or instructional videos. Start with simple patterns and practice regularly to refine your skills and build confidence.
As you become more comfortable, explore new patterns and techniques, experimenting with different materials and styles. Seek guidance and feedback from experienced tyers through clubs, workshops, or online communities to accelerate your learning process. Above all, enjoy the creative process and take pride in each fly you tie.
With dedication and perseverance, fly tying can become a fulfilling and rewarding hobby that enhances your enjoyment of fly fishing.
Finishing Notes
Fly fishing relies heavily on understanding the different types of flies and how to use them effectively. Flies, whether dry flies, nymphs, or streamers, are key tools for catching trout and other freshwater fish. Each type of fly is designed to mimic natural prey and can be used in different fishing situations.
It’s important for anglers to not only know the types of flies but also how to present them correctly. Matching the hatch with accurate imitations or using streamers to trigger aggressive strikes are both valuable techniques. Fly fishing offers a variety of approaches, and success often comes from learning, practicing, and adjusting to conditions on the water.
