Best Flies for Trout: Top Picks for Success
Trout fishing is an art. An art that demands patience, precision, and a deep understanding of the trout’s environment.
And at the heart of this art lies the selection of the perfect fly. If you’re an avid angler or even just a beginner, searching for the best flies for trout is an ongoing quest.
You want to present a lure mimicking trout’s natural prey, which will make them strike with vigor. In this article, we will delve into the world of fly fishing, exploring the top choices for flies that will make your trout fishing adventure successful.
What are the best flies for trout during each season?
Trout fishing is a dynamic pursuit that changes with the seasons. As the weather shifts and trout behavior follows suit, so must the angler’s choice of flies.
This comprehensive guide explores the best flies for trout fishing, season by season, ensuring you’re well-equipped to adapt to the changing conditions and maximize your catch. Here are the best flies for trout:
Spring Flies for Trout:
- Blue Winged Olive (BWO)
- March Brown Nymph
1. Blue Winged Olive (BWO)
As an avid fly angler, I’m constantly on the lookout for effective and versatile dry fly patterns, and the Blue Winged Olive (BWO) Parachute Dry Fly certainly stands out.
This fly’s innovative design and realistic representation of the BWO make it a top-notch choice for any angler seeking success on the water.
Appearance and Design
The first thing that caught my eye about this fly was its realistic design.
The dubbed olive body beautifully mimics the natural appearance of BWO duns. What truly sets this fly apart is the white poly parachute post.
The stark contrast of white against the olive body greatly improves visibility, making tracking the fly on the water’s surface easier.
Additionally, the light dun hackle and tail are meticulously crafted to enhance the overall look of the fly.
Performance:
The BWO Parachute Dry Fly looks the part and performs exceptionally well. I’ve used this fly during BWO hatches in various locations and seasons, and it consistently entices even the most selective trout.
Its low profile in the water mimics the natural posture of a BWO dun, and the white parachute post ensures I never lose sight of it, even in challenging light conditions.
Versatility:
What I appreciate most about this fly is its versatility. Whether I’m targeting rising trout during a BWO hatch or prospecting for selective feeders, the BWO Parachute Dry Fly has proven effective.
It’s a reliable go-to pattern for imitating both the dun and emerger stages of BWOs, offering adaptability throughout the hatch.
Durability:
Durability is a crucial factor in fly selection, and I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the longevity of the BWO Parachute Dry Fly.
The hackle remains intact after numerous uses, and the fly has held up well against strong currents and the occasional fish encounter.
In my extensive experience with fly fishing and various BWO patterns, the Blue Winged Olive (BWO) Parachute Dry Fly has consistently delivered exceptional results.
Its realistic design, superb visibility, versatility, and durability make it a must-have for any angler’s fly box.
Spring is synonymous with mayfly hatches. BWO imitations are incredibly effective during these hatches, providing the perfect small, olive-colored morsel to tempt early-season trout.
2. March Brown Nymph:
As a passionate fly angler, I’m always looking for versatile and reliable fly patterns that can effectively mimic a variety of natural food sources for trout.
The March Brown Nymph Fly has consistently proven an indispensable addition to my fly box, offering versatility and reliability that every angler can appreciate.
Versatility and Realism:
The March Brown Nymph Fly is a true workhorse, imitating many aquatic insects that are part of a trout’s diet.
This best nymph flies for trout’s simple, dark nymph pattern is incredibly versatile, making it ideal for early-season fishing when March Browns are prevalent and for year-round angling.
Its realistic appearance closely resembles the natural mayfly species and other aquatic insects that trout commonly feed on, ensuring it remains a go-to choice when unsure of what’s hatching.
Performance:
What sets the March Brown Nymph Fly apart is its consistent performance. Early spring sees the emergence of March Browns.
Their nymphs make a tasty treat for trout, and imitating them with a March Brown Nymph can yield great results.
Whether I’m fishing in the early season, during a mayfly hatch, or in the depths of winter when other insects are less active, this fly always produces results.
It presents itself in a natural, lifelike manner, and trout responds with enthusiasm.
Ease of Use:
One of the standout features of this fly is its ease of use. Novice anglers will appreciate its forgiving nature, while experienced anglers will find it a dependable choice when other hatches might be unpredictable.
When uncertain about what’s happening on the water, I can confidently tie on a March Brown Nymph and start prospecting.
Durability:
A fly’s durability is crucial, and the March Brown Nymph has impressed me in this regard.
It can withstand the rigors of stream and river fishing, holding up well against strong currents and the occasional encounter with feisty trout.
The March Brown Nymph Fly has become a staple in my fly box, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to fellow anglers.
Its versatility, realism, consistent performance, ease of use, and durability make it an invaluable asset for any fishing adventure.
2. Summer Flies for Trout:
- Pale Morning Dun (PMD)
- Ant Acid Fly
1. Pale Morning Dun (PMD):
As a fly angler who has had the pleasure of experiencing the Pale Morning Dun (PMD) hatch in Missoula, Montana, I can attest to the incredible allure of this natural phenomenon.
The PMD Dry Fly, designed to emulate this extraordinary hatch, has proven itself as an essential tool for any angler seeking thrilling summer trout fishing.
The PMD Hatch Experience:
The PMD hatch in Missoula, Montana, is nothing short of spectacular. From late June through late July, these two distinct species of mayflies, Ephemerella Inermis and E. Infrequens, emerge in droves, bringing large and often selective trout to the surface.
The intensity and consistency of this hatch are unparalleled, creating a fly angler’s paradise.
Versatile and Adaptable:
One of the standout features of the PMD Dry Fly is its adaptability. It caters to the Infrequens (size 14) and the Inermis (size 18), making it a versatile choice for anglers.
When the hatch is in full swing and fish are responding to different sizes, having the same pattern in varying sizes allows you to adapt to the changing preferences of the trout seamlessly.
Realistic Imitation:
The PMD Dry Fly is not just a mere imitation; it’s a remarkably realistic representation of Pale Morning Dun mayflies.
Its design captures the essence of these insects, from their unique size to their distinct appearance.
This accuracy in replication is crucial when it comes to gaining the trust of selective trout.
High Performance:
When the PMD hatch is underway, it’s more than just another hatch; it’s a phenomenon.
The PMD Dry Fly excels in these conditions, expertly imitating the natural insects to elicit eager strikes from trout. It’s not just a fly; it’s your ticket to joining the excitement of the PMD hatch.
The PMD Dry Fly is a must-have in your fly box, especially if you can fish during the Pale Morning Dun hatch. Its adaptability, realism, and consistent performance make it a crucial asset.
Whether in Missoula, Montana, or any location where PMD hatches occur, this fly is your key to unlocking the thrill of summer trout fishing.
As summer progresses, PMD hatches become common. The Pale Morning Dun dry fly is an excellent choice to mimic these mayflies.
2. Ant Acid Fly:
As an enthusiastic fly angler, I constantly search for innovative fly patterns that combine realism, simplicity, and effectiveness.
The Ant-Acid Fly is a stellar example of a fly that embodies these qualities, making it a top choice for a wide range of fishing scenarios.
Design and Materials :
The Ant-Acid Fly perfectly blends a mix of flash, natural materials, and a well-defined silhouette that attracts fish of various species.
Its construction involves a thoughtfully selected combination of components, including a standard dry fly hook in sizes 12-16, black 6/0 Danville thread, black dubbing for the abdomen and head, holographic silver Flashabou for the rear wing, purple dubbing for the thorax, and elk body hair for the mid wing.
Purple micro-legs add a striking touch to the fly.
Versatility:
One of the standout features of the Ant-Acid Fly is its versatility. While it’s primarily designed to mimic an ant, the unique combination of materials and colors allows it to mimic a variety of terrestrial insects and even small baitfish.
With its adaptability and impressive track record of success, this fly has earned a permanent place in my fly box.
Whether targeting trout, bass, or panfish, the Ant-Acid Fly is a reliable companion that consistently attracts and tempts fish to strike.
It’s a must-have for any angler seeking versatility and effectiveness in their fly selection.
Realistic Appearance:
The Ant-Acid Fly is crafted to provide a lifelike silhouette that effectively mimics its intended prey. Its natural coloration and the use of materials like elk body hair for the mid-wing add to the fly’s realistic appeal.
The holographic silver Flashabou in the rear wing provides a reflective quality that catches the fish’s eye in various light conditions.
High Performance:
In my experience, the Ant-Acid Fly consistently delivers outstanding performance.
Whether I’m casting it on still waters, slow-moving rivers, or streams, it has the uncanny ability to attract the attention of various fish species.
This fly has a proven track record of eliciting strikes from even the most discerning fish.
The Ant-Acid Fly is more than just an imitation of an ant; it’s a versatile and highly effective fly pattern that offers a well-rounded and realistic presentation.
Its thoughtful design and craftsmanship make it a standout choice for fly anglers targeting a wide range of species.
During the warm months, ants frequently fall into the water. Ant dry and wet patterns can be a reliable choice for tempting trout in the summer heat.
3. Fall Flies for Trout:
- Elk Hare Caddis Brown Fly
- Midge Patterns
1. Elk Hare Caddis Brown Fly :
The Elk Hare Caddis Brown Fly is a testament to the dedication and skill of professional fly tyers.
This fly stands out not only for its exquisite construction but also for its exceptional performance on the water.
Craftsmanship:
The Elk Hare Caddis Brown Fly is a true work of art. From the choice of materials to the intricate tying process, it’s evident that every aspect of this fly has been carefully considered.
Materials and Components:
The fly’s effectiveness begins with the choice of high-quality Mustad hooks, known for their sharpness and durability.
This attention to detail ensures that the fly remains securely attached to your line, even when battling a strong fish.
The fly’s weight, at a mere 0.02 pounds, strikes an excellent balance between buoyancy and sink rate, making it suitable for various fishing conditions.
Performance:
The Elk Hare Caddis Brown Fly is not just a piece of art to be admired; it’s a highly effective fly pattern on the water.
Because it closely resembles caddisflies, trout and other species that feed on these insects find it irresistible.
Whether casting it during caddisfly hatches or using it as an attractor pattern, it consistently delivers results.
Versatility:
One of the standout features of this fly is its versatility. It can be used in various angling situations, from still waters to flowing streams, and it’s effective for targeting different fish species.
The Elk Hare Caddis Brown Fly has the adaptability to match various caddisfly species, ensuring success in different conditions and locations.
The Elk Hare Caddis Brown Fly is a testament to the art and science of fly tying.
Handcrafted with care and precision, it is not only a visually appealing fly but also a highly effective one.
Caddisflies continue to be active well into the fall. Utilize elk hair caddis or similar patterns to attract trout as they feed on these insects.
2. Midge Patterns:
Quality and Materials:
The Umpqua Tak’s Crystal Chironomid Fly Fishing Midges is a prime example of a fly pattern constructed using the best materials available.
Its materials are carefully chosen for their durability and lifelike appearance, ensuring a fly that stands up to the rigors of fly fishing.
This focus on quality speaks volumes about the commitment to creating top-notch fishing flies.
Craftsmanship:
Craftsmanship is a critical aspect of fly tying, and the Umpqua Tak’s Crystal Chironomid Fly Fishing Midges embodies skillful hand-tying.
Every detail, from the placement of materials to the proportions of the fly, is executed with precision.
This results in a well-crafted fly that looks impressive and performs exceptionally well on the water.
Performance:
The effectiveness of this fly pattern is nothing short of remarkable. Chironomids are a crucial food source for trout and other fish species, and the Crystal Chironomid Fly does an outstanding job of imitating these aquatic insects.
Whether you’re fishing still waters or slow-moving rivers, this fly consistently entices strikes from discerning fish.
Versatility:
Chironomid patterns are a staple in a fly angler’s repertoire, and the Umpqua Tak’s Crystal Chironomid Fly is no exception.
Its adaptability allows it to be used in various fishing conditions, making it a valuable addition to your fly box.
It’s suitable for targeting trout and other species that feed on chironomids.
Weight :
At a weight of 0.25 pounds, the Umpqua Tak’s Crystal Chironomid Fly strikes an ideal balance between buoyancy and sink rate.
This feature ensures that the fly behaves naturally on the water’s surface or at different depths, depending on your presentation.
The Umpqua Tak’s Crystal Chironomid Fly Fishing Midges are a prime example of the best fishing flies available to fly anglers.
It’s a fly pattern that enhances the enjoyment of fly fishing and consistently delivers results on the water in late fall; midges become prominent, and trout often focus on these tiny insects.
Carry a selection of midge patterns, both dries and nymphs, to match the hatch.
4. Winter Flies for Trout:
- Zebra Midge
- Woolly Bugger (in dark colors)
1. Zebra Midge:
Winter fishing often necessitates deep nymphing. The Zebra Midge, a simple but effective pattern, is a great choice for imitating midge larvae, which are prevalent during the colder months.
Quality and Materials:
The Umpqua Tungsten Zebra Midge Black Fly Fishing Midges are constructed using only the highest-quality materials.
This commitment to superior materials ensures a durable fly pattern that can accurately mimic natural insects.
This focus on quality underscores the dedication to creating the best fishing flies.
Craftsmanship:
Craftsmanship is at the core of fly tying, and the Umpqua Tungsten Zebra Midge Black Fly Fishing Midges exemplify skillful hand-tying.
Every detail, from the selection and placement of materials to the proportions of the fly, is executed with precision.
The result is a meticulously crafted fly that looks impressive and performs exceptionally well on the water.
Performance:
The performance of this fly pattern is nothing short of exceptional. The Tungsten Zebra Midge Black Fly is designed to mimic midge larvae, a crucial food source for trout and various fish species.
Whether fishing in still waters or slow-moving rivers, this fly consistently tempts selective fish to strike, making it an excellent choice for anglers looking for dependable results.
Versatility:
The Zebra Midge Black is a versatile pattern, making it suitable for various angling scenarios.
This versatility adds to its value as a must-have fly in your collection.
The Umpqua Tungsten Zebra Midge Black Fly Fishing Midges is a shining example of the best fishing flies that fly anglers can use.
It enhances the enjoyment of fly fishing and consistently delivers results on the water.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a newcomer to the sport, this fly deserves a prominent place in your fly box.
Its unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and effectiveness is a testament to the excellence that discerning anglers seek.
The Umpqua Tungsten Zebra Midge Black Fly is a popular and trusted choice among fly fishermen and is a valuable asset for enhancing your fly fishing experience.
2. Woolly Bugger (in dark colors):
The Woolly Bugger is more than just a streamer flies; it’s a legend in fly fishing.
This timeless pattern has earned its reputation as one of the most effective and versatile flies ever tied.
Versatility:
The Woolly Bugger is a true workhorse. It’s not just a streamer; it’s a multi-purpose fly that can attract fish in a wide range of fishing scenarios.
This fly does it all with fast or slow water, rivers, ponds, lakes, dirty water, or spring creeks. It’s a universal imitator, resembling crayfish, minnows, sculpins, leeches, and other natural foods that trout and other species can’t resist.
The Woolly Bugger’s adaptability is one of its greatest strengths.
Whether you’re pursuing trout, bass, panfish, or other species, the Woolly Bugger is a proven winner.
Sizes:
The availability of the Woolly Bugger in sizes 4, 6, 8, and 10 ensures that you have the perfect match for the conditions and fish species you’re targeting.
This range of sizes allows you to imitate smaller and larger prey, making the Woolly Bugger a go-to choice for various fishing situations.
Performance:
The Woolly Bugger’s performance is nothing short of exceptional. Whether you’re using it to mimic a struggling baitfish in a river, a leech in a Stillwater, or a crayfish in a pond, it consistently entices strikes from various fish species.
The undulating marabou tail and tantalizing hackle collar create a lifelike movement irresistible to predators.
Enduring Classic:
The Woolly Bugger is not just a fly; it’s a piece of fly fishing history. Its legacy as a dependable, go-to pattern has endured for generations.
It’s a fly that novice and seasoned anglers rely on for its unwavering ability to attract fish.
The Woolly Bugger is an iconic and indispensable fly pattern that every fly angler should have in their arsenal.
Its availability in different sizes accommodates a range of fishing conditions and scenarios. It’s a must-have pattern that you can’t be without.
The Woolly Bugger is more than a fly; it’s a legend in fly fishing.
Trout tend to be more lethargic in cold water, making the Woolly Bugger an ideal choice, especially in dark colors, to represent leeches and other slow-moving prey.
5. Year-Round Staples:
- Hare’s Ear Nymph
- Wulff Royal Fly Fishing Dry Flies
1. Hare’s Ear Nymph:
The Hare’s Ear Nymph Fly is a prime example of meticulously hand-tied craftsmanship.
Every aspect of this fly, from the selection of materials to the tying process, reflects a high level of skill and attention to detail.
The professionals crafting this fly take great pride in their work, resulting in a visually impressive and well-constructed pattern.
Materials and Components:
The choice of high-quality Mustad hooks in constructing this fly is noteworthy.
Mustad hooks are renowned for their sharpness and durability, ensuring the fly remains securely attached to your line, even when battling strong fish.
At just 0.02 pounds, the fly’s weight strikes an excellent balance between buoyancy and sink rate, making it suitable for various fishing conditions.
Performance:
The Hare’s Ear Nymph Fly is not just a visually appealing fly; it’s a highly effective pattern on the water.
This classic fly design imitates various aquatic insects and their nymphal stages, making it an irresistible temptation for trout and other fish species.
Whether fishing in rivers, streams, or still waters, this fly consistently delivers results and is a go-to choice for anglers looking for dependable success.
Style and Size:
This fly’s “Pride” style is reflected in its precision and the pride taken in its craftsmanship.
Its compact size, measuring 2 x 1.8 x 0.7 inches, makes it easy to handle and cast accurately.
The Hare’s Ear Nymph Fly is a shining example of the art and science of fly tying.
Handcrafted with care and precision, it is not only a visually appealing fly but also a highly effective one.
The combination of high-quality Mustad hooks, meticulous craftsmanship, and versatile design makes it a must-have for any fly angler.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting your fly fishing journey, this fly will undoubtedly enhance your chances of success on the water.
The Hare’s Ear Nymph is a versatile, all-season fly that can imitate various aquatic insects. It’s an essential addition to your fly box for year-round success.
2. Wulff Royal Fly Fishing Dry Flies:
The Wulff Royal Fly, Fishing Dry Flies, are hand-tied with exceptional craftsmanship.
Each fly is a masterpiece, showcasing meticulous attention to detail in the selection and placement of materials.
The fly tyers behind these patterns take immense pride in their work, resulting in flies that are not only highly effective but also visually impressive.
Materials and Components:
Constructed from the best materials available, these flies exemplify quality. Top-tier materials ensure their durability and ability to mimic natural insects with striking accuracy.
This attention to detail in material selection is crucial for creating flies that perform exceptionally well on the water.
Versatility:
The Wulff Royal Fly Fishing Dry Flies are designed to imitate a range of hatches, making them versatile choices for the discerning angler.
Whether you’re targeting caddis, callibaetis, drake, hexagenia, PMD, or stonefly hatches, these flies have you covered. Their adaptability is invaluable for anglers seeking success in various fishing scenarios.
Species and Life Stage:
Designed to imitate adult insects, these dry flies are particularly effective for targeting trout during their surface-feeding phases.
The accuracy with which they replicate these life stages ensures that trout find them irresistible, making them a top choice for trout anglers.
Weight:
Weighing in at 0.1 pounds, these flies are lightweight and easy to cast precisely, allowing for accurate water surface presentations.
The Wulff Royal Fly, Fishing Dry Flies, embodies excellence in fly tying. Handcrafted with great care and precision, they are visually appealing and highly effective.
The combination of top-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, versatility, and accurate representation of insect hatches makes them a must-have for any fly angler targeting trout.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a newcomer to the sport, these flies will undoubtedly enhance your chances of success on the water.
Royal Wulff and other attractor patterns are versatile flies that work well in any season.
Their high visibility and stimulating profile make them a valuable asset in your collection.
Trout fishing is a journey through the changing seasons, and your fly selection should evolve accordingly.
Understanding the natural cycles and the trout’s feeding habits throughout the year can significantly enhance your chances of a successful catch.
Whether casting on a brisk winter morning or enjoying the warmth of a summer afternoon, these season-wise fly choices will help you adapt to the ever-changing world of trout fishing.
How to tie flies for trout
Tying flies for trout is a rewarding and creative aspect of fly fishing. Here’s a basic guide to get you started with fly tying for trout:
Materials and Tools:
Before you begin, gather the necessary materials and tools.
These include hooks, threads, feathers, furs, beads, and other specific materials for the patterns you want to tie. Tools like a vise, scissors, bobbin, and hackle pliers are essential.
1. Choose Your Pattern:
Start by selecting a fly pattern suitable for the trout in your target area and the season.
Some popular ways for trout include Woolly Buggers, Elk Hair Caddis, Pheasant Tail Nymphs, and Parachute Adams.
2. Prepare the Hook:
Place the hook securely in the vise, making sure it’s properly aligned.
3. Secure the Thread:
Tie the thread onto the hook shank near the eye. To create a secure foundation for the materials, wind the thread back up to the bend of the hook.
4. Add Tail or Body Materials:
Depending on the pattern, you may need to add a tail, body, or both.
Materials like feathers, furs, or synthetic fibers are used to create the desired profile and shape. Secure them to the hook shank using the thread.
5. Add Hackle or Wings:
For dry flies, add hackle or wings. The hackle is usually wound around the hook shank, while wings are tied on top.
These materials give your fly buoyancy and help it float on the water’s surface.
6. Finish and Secure:
Once you’ve added all the necessary materials, use the thread to finish the fly by creating a neat head.
Whip finish the thread to secure it, and apply a small drop of head cement to ensure everything stays in place.
7. Trim Excess Materials:
Trim any excess materials and thread to create a clean, streamlined fly.
8. Optional: Add Weight:
If you’re tying nymphs or streamers, add weighted materials like beads or lead wire to help the fly sink in the water column.
9. Practice and Experiment:
Fly tying is an art that improves with practice. Keep going even if your first few flies need to look better.
Experiment with different patterns and materials to develop your skills.
10. Learn from Resources:
Plenty of resources are available to help you learn fly tying, including books, online tutorials, and classes. These resources can guide specific patterns and techniques.
Fly tying for trout is a creative and enjoyable aspect of the sport.
Over time, you’ll develop your patterns and techniques, which can be highly rewarding when you catch trout on flies you’ve tied yourself.
Remember to follow local regulations and conservation guidelines when fishing for trout to ensure the well-being of the fish and their habitat.
Conclusion:
Fly fishing for trout is an ever-evolving art, and choosing the right flies can make all the difference between a successful day on the water and a fruitless one.
The best flies for trout are versatile, imitate the trout’s natural prey, and are suited to the conditions you encounter.
The flies mentioned in this article have stood the test of time and continue to be favorites among anglers.
Remember, successful fly fishing is not just about the fly itself; it’s about presentation, timing, and understanding the habits of the trout in your chosen fishing spot.
So, next time you hit the water in pursuit of these elusive creatures, ensure you have these top trout flies in your arsenal. Happy fishing!
Check out the Fly Tying Tools available on our website.