Wet fly fishing is an ancient technique that dates back to the beginnings of fly fishing. It involves fishing underwater with a wet fly, which is usually sparsely tied with minimal hackle and a thin body. Wet flies are fished with a deliberate action caused by the current or angler, and they are often used to imitate sub-aquatic trout food.
Wet fly fishing is a great way for novice anglers to gain experience while hooking many fish. It is a rudimentary presentation that demands no more than casting a single fly across-and-downstream, with an upstream line-mend to prevent drag. Wet flies are generally fished under the surface of the water, and they are the opposite of dry flies. Historically, a wet fly was considered any fly fished below the water’s surface, while a dry fly was any fly that floated.
Key Takeaways
- Wet fly fishing is an ancient technique that involves fishing underwater with a wet fly.
- Wet flies are fished with a deliberate action caused by the current or angler, and they are often used to imitate sub-aquatic trout food.
- Wet fly fishing is a great way for novice anglers to gain experience while hooking many fish.
Understanding Wet Fly Fishing
Wet fly fishing is an ancient fly fishing technique that has been used for centuries. This technique involves fishing with a fly that is designed to sink below the surface of the water. Wet flies are typically used to imitate subsurface insects, which are an important food source for trout.
The Art of Wet Fly Fishing
Wet fly fishing involves casting the fly upstream and allowing it to drift downstream. The angler must use the current to their advantage by mending the line to avoid drag. Wet fly fishing is most effective in areas of slow-moving water, such as slack water and eddies, as well as plunge pools.
One of the key aspects of wet fly fishing is the use of droppers. A dropper is a second fly that is attached to the leader, typically about 2-3 feet above the wet fly. The dropper fly can imitate a different insect or be a smaller version of the wet fly. This technique can increase the chances of catching fish, as it allows the angler to present two different flies to the fish.
Wet Fly Patterns and Their Significance
There are many different wet fly patterns that are used in wet fly fishing. Some of the most popular patterns include the Zulu, March Brown, Alexandra, Clan Chief, Coch-y-Bondhu, Bumbles, Bibio, Invicta, Black Pennel, Black Zulu, Butcher, and Caddis.
Wet fly patterns can be divided into two categories: winged flies and hackled wet flies. Winged flies are designed to imitate up-winged flies, such as mayflies and stoneflies. Hackled wet flies, on the other hand, are designed to imitate subsurface insects, such as caddisflies and midges.
When choosing a wet fly pattern, it is important to consider the current and the hatches that are present. In the spring, subsurface insects are more prevalent, so hackled wet flies may be more effective. In the summer, up-winged flies are more common, so winged flies may be more effective.
In wet fly fishing, the leader is typically shorter and stiffer than in dry fly fishing. This is because wet flies are heavier and require a stiffer leader to turn over. The leader can also be used in a dry-dropper or dead-drift rig, which involves using a dry fly as an indicator and a wet fly as the dropper.
Wet fly fishing can be used in rivers and lakes, and it is a versatile technique that can be adapted to different conditions. With the right technique and fly pattern, wet fly fishing can be a highly effective way to catch trout.
Advanced Techniques and Tips for Wet Fly Fishing
Selecting the Right Wet Fly
Selecting the right wet fly is crucial for successful wet fly fishing. The size and colour of the fly should be chosen based on the winged insects present in the water body. Brown trout, for instance, are known to feed on emerging duns and adult spinners, so imitating these insects with the right wet fly can be highly effective.
It is also important to consider the size of the fly hook. A hook size of 10-14 is ideal for trout fishing, but it may vary based on the size of the aquatic insect present in the water. A larger hook size may be required for larger fish species.
Mastering the Wet Fly Fishing Technique
Wet fly fishing is a technique that requires ingenuity and skill. Understanding the current of the water body is crucial for successful wet fly fishing. During the spring and summer, the current is generally stronger, while the water is calmer during the fall and winter.
Wet fly fishing can be done in various water bodies, including rivers, lakes, and small plunge pools. The technique involves casting the fly upstream and allowing it to drift downstream, imitating the movement of a nymphal case or an aquatic insect. The wave on the water created by the fly can attract fish in the slack water, eddies, and small plunge pools.
The leader should be adjusted based on the depth of the water and the size of the fish. A dry-dropper or middle dropper can also be added to the leader to increase the chances of catching fish. The dead-drift technique can be used to imitate the movement of a nymphal case, while the wet fly swing technique can be used to imitate the movement of an emerging dun.
Having a well-stocked fly box with a variety of wet flies can increase the chances of catching fish. It is important to experiment with different wet flies and techniques to find what works best in different water bodies and conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular wet fly patterns used in fly fishing?
There are many different wet fly patterns used in fly fishing. Some popular ones include the Greenwell’s Glory, the March Brown, and the Black Spider. These patterns are effective for catching trout, grayling, and other freshwater fish.
What is the best fly rod for wet fly fishing?
The best fly rod for wet fly fishing depends on the type of water you will be fishing in and the size of the fish you are targeting. In general, a 9ft 5wt or 6wt rod is a good choice for most wet fly fishing situations.
When is the best time to use a wet fly?
Wet flies can be used throughout the year, but they are particularly effective during the early season when the water is still cold and the fish are feeding near the bottom. They can also be effective during a hatch when the fish are feeding on nymphs and other aquatic insects.
What is the difference between a wet fly and a nymph?
A wet fly is a fly that is designed to be fished below the surface of the water, while a nymph is a type of wet fly that imitates the immature form of an aquatic insect. Nymphs are often fished near the bottom of the river or stream, while wet flies can be fished at various depths.
Why are wet flies called wet flies?
Wet flies are called wet flies because they are designed to be fished below the surface of the water. They are typically tied with materials that absorb water and sink quickly, making them ideal for fishing in deeper water.
What is the difference between a wet fly and a streamer?
A wet fly is a fly that is designed to be fished below the surface of the water, while a streamer is a type of wet fly that imitates a small baitfish or other swimming creature. Streamers are typically larger and heavier than other wet flies and are often fished in faster water.