Flies

THE FLIES OF FLY FISHING
Dry Fly
The dry fly is designed to be fished on the surface. It is tied to imitate the winged stage of aquatic insects. Some common examples are the Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and the Light Cahill.
Wet Fly
The wet fly imitates the emerging stage of an aquatic insect. It is generally fished below the surface and can be used to imitate all types of aquatic creatures. Wet flies represent the earliest form of fly fishing in that the traditional flies were of this nature. Some common examples are the Partridge & Orange, The Leadwing Coachman, and the Soft Hackle.
Nymph
The nymph represents the earliest stage of an aquatic insects life. It is significant in that the greatest majority of the trout’s diet consists of these types of flies. Some common examples are the Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear, Pheasant Tail, and the Stonefly.
Streamer
Streamers imitate small aquatic species such as minnows, leeches, and sculpins. It is common to fish these flies underwater using a technique that suggests a swimming motion. Common streamers are the Muddler Minnow, Mickey Finn, and the Wooly Worm.
Popping Bug
Poppers are used to imitate a number of larger creatures on the surface. The nature of the fly is to promote surface activity. Most commonly these are used for bass and other predatory fish such as pickeral. Poppers have many varieties and should be selected for their compatibility with the fly tackle being used.
Steelhead Fly
Steelhead flies are brightly colored and tied in a fashion that promotes strikes from the steelhead.Some common examples are the Skunk, Skykomish Special, and the Kiospoix Special.
Saltwater Fly
Saltwater flies are tied and fished like streamers and are meant to imitate bait fish or crustaceans found in saltwater locations. Some common examples are Lefty’s Deceiver, Crazy Charlie, and the Blue Crab.