Experienced anglers know the importance of using the right bait for fly fishing. Flies, now used to catch a variety of fish, were once reserved exclusively for trout and salmon. With dozens of varieties and tying techniques, flies are designed for specific purposes. Used in either freshwater or saltwater, flies resemble insects, worms or other common prey. By understanding the variety of fly fishing flies, an angler can face the water’s edge confidently anticipating a great day of fishing.
Because flies serve as bait, they resemble common prey. Emerger flies, mainly used for trout, mimic young hatching insects, while terrestrial flies imitate worms, insects and other prey that have fallen into the water. Egg flies appear as fish spawn, while flesh flies resemble salmon flesh.
The three types of freshwater flies are used for specific purposes. Buoyant and effective, a dry fly is tied to resemble an insect skating along the water’s surface. In contrast, a wet fly is submerged below the surface to attract the target fish by resembling underwater prey, such as dead insects, larva and smaller aquatic creatures. The nymph fly, which is tied to look like appealing crustaceans and immature water insects, is the third freshwater fly.
Some fly fishing flies are best used in saltwater. For use either on or below the surface, saltwater flies vary in their designs and uses. For instance, tarpon flies resemble the kinds of baitfish that attract tarpon, and bonefish flies, which are mainly used in shallow water, look like crustaceans that lure bonefish, such as shrimp and crabs.
Many other flies are used to attract specific kinds of fish. For example, flies that resemble seeds, flower heads or berries attract carp that feed on displaced vegetation, and flies that resemble baitfish lure striped bass that which prey on smaller fish. In addition, other flies are designed specifically for catching bass, panfish, pike, musky and other gamefish.
With their range of uses, fly fishing flies are a key factor in successful angling. Techniques for tying fly knots vary, and these methods are as much a part of fly fishing as casting the line and waiting for the fish to take the bait. Whether one is an experienced angler or new to this method of fishing, it is important to use the right fly fishing flies in order to achieve the best results while participating in this popular and satisfying pastime.
