What are Dry Flies?
Dry flies are designed to float on the water's surface, imitating adult insects such as mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, and terrestrials. These patterns are tied with buoyant materials like hackle, deer hair, and CDC (cul de canard) feathers to keep them riding high on the surface film.
When and How to Fish Dry Flies
Dry flies excel during insect hatches when fish are actively feeding on the surface. Look for rising fish, particularly during morning and evening hours in spring through fall. Match the size and color of naturals you observe on the water for best results.
Common Tying Materials
Popular dry fly materials include dry fly hackle (rooster), elk and deer hair for wings and bodies, CDC feathers for emergers, fine dry fly dubbing, and quality dry fly hooks in sizes 10-22. Thread is typically 6/0 to 8/0 for delicate presentations.
Popular Dry Flies Patterns
Classic dry fly patterns include the Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Parachute Adams, Royal Wulff, Blue Wing Olive, and Griffith's Gnat. Modern patterns like the Klinkhamer, Comparadun, and various CDC patterns have also become staples in fly boxes worldwide.