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When it comes to fly fishing, there are three main types of flies that you need to be familiar with: dry flies, nymphs, and streamers. Each type of fly has a specific purpose, and can be used in different ways to catch different types of fish. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at each type of fly and discuss how they are used in fly fishing. We will also provide some tips on how to select the right flies for your next fishing trip!

Dry Flies

Dry flies are one of the most common types of flies used in fly fishing. When you think of classic fly fishing, this is the fly that comes to mind. Dry flies are designed to float on the surface of the water and are often used to imitate insects or other small creatures that fish feed on. Used properly, a dry fly simulates an insect landing on the water, which attracts surface feeders. The fish will see the fly land and hopefully make a stellar jump to grab it, simultaneously getting hooked. When selecting dry flies, it is important to consider the size, color, and pattern of the fly. These factors should be based on what kind of fish you are looking to catch. You should ask an experienced angler or someone at your local tackle shop what the best play is. Dry flies can be used to catch a variety of fish, making them a versatile choice for any angler. Rainbow Trout are a favorite of many fly fishermen and they can be caught using a dry fly.

dry fly

Nymphs

Nymphs are another popular type of fly used in fly fishing. Nymphs are typically smaller than dry flies and sink below the surface of the water. They are used to imitate aquatic insects or larvae that fish feed on. Nymphs are often considered more reliable and successful than dry flies, since more fish feed below the surface than above. One of the difficult things about nymphs is that it is hard to see a fish strike since they are underwater, and you don’t feel the pull as much on a fly rod. To counteract this problem, many anglers choose to use a strike indicator. The strike indicator dips below the surface when the fish makes a bite, telling you when to set the hook. Just like dry flies, it is important to choose the right size, color, and pattern of a nymph fly before setting out. Some are perfect for catching trout, while softer, larger nymphs are productive when fishing for Smallmouth Bass.

nymph fly

Streamers

Streamers are another type of fly that is designed to sink below the surface of the water. Streamers are often used to imitate baitfish or other small creatures that fish feed on like minnows. Your technique must change when fly fishing with streamers. Instead of floating the fly with the current, you give short tugs on the line to move the streamer in bursts. The intent is to mimic the movements of a small fish, which will naturally attract large predators like Largemouth Bass. A heavier leader and tippet help your pull and are also useful for handling the fast, hard strikes that come at streamers.

streamer fly