Dry Fly
Also called: floating fly
A fly that floats on the surface to imitate insects hatching or landing on the water, used for trout rising to feed.
- Type
- Flies
- Target fish
- Trout & Salmon, Panfish
- Skill
- Takes some practice
- Depth
- Surface
- Best seasons
- Spring through fall
Note: Rules on hooks, barbs, and catch-and-release vary by water, and many trout streams require barbless hooks. Check your state's rules.
When it works best
- When trout are rising and feeding on insects at the surface.
- During hatches in the morning and evening.
- In calm, clear water.
How to fish it
- Match the size and shape of the insects you see.
- Cast upstream or across the current.
- Let the fly drift without drag, which means moving at the same speed as the water.
- Mend the line to keep it drifting naturally and set the hook gently when a fish rises.
Tips
- Use floatant to keep the fly high on the water.
- Watch what the fish are eating before choosing a fly.
- Fish the seams and calm pools.
Common mistakes
- Letting the line drag the fly, which looks unnatural.
- Using a fly that is too big.
- Casting too close to the fish.
Gear
A light fly rod, with a floating line and a long, fine leader, is the usual setup.
Often confused with
- Nymph: sinks beneath the surface.
Fish it catches
Field notes
Watching a trout rise to a dry fly is one of the highlights of fly fishing. It starts with watching the water and the insects.
Related guides
What works varies by water, season, and the fish that day, so use this as a starting point. Regulations on live bait, hook type and number, lead tackle, and baitfish transport differ by state and water body. Check your state's current fishing rules; our state resources directory links to each state's official regulations and license portal.