How It’s Tied
The Klinkhammer fly is typically tied on a Partridge Klinkhammer or similar curved-shank hook. The abdomen features a thin dubbed body material, while the thorax is built with denser dubbing or peacock herl. A synthetic material like poly yarn or Antron forms the wing post, and the hackle is tied parachute-style around it. Foam may be added for extra buoyancy. The finished fly suspends its body below the surface, with the hackle and wing post floating above.
What It Mimics
The Klinkhammer is an emerger pattern designed to replicate aquatic insects transitioning from nymphs to adults—a vulnerable stage that attracts feeding fish. Its submerged abdomen mimics the nymphal shuck, while the exposed hackle and wing post imitate the emerging adult and its wings. This design effectively copies mayflies, caddisflies, and midges, making it irresistible to trout and other species.
Where It’s Used
The Klinkhammer’s versatility makes it ideal for diverse environments, from small streams to large rivers and lakes. Its ability to mimic multiple insects ensures effectiveness throughout the fishing season, as different hatches occur at different times. By adjusting size, color, and materials, anglers can tailor the fly to match local insect species, maximizing success.
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Overview
The Sedge Fly is a popular pattern designed to imitate caddisflies, making it highly effective for targeting trout and grayling during caddisfly hatches in various water conditions.
How to Tie
To tie a Sedge Fly, use a short or medium-shank hook and assemble materials that create a realistic, floating profile. The body is typically formed from dubbing or synthetic fibers, wrapped around the hook to achieve a cylindrical shape. The wing, often made from elk or deer hair, is tied at an angle to mimic the tent-like wings of a natural caddisfly. Some variations use feathers for the wings (as seen in the main image). A brown or grizzly hackle is tied at the head and wrapped to form a buoyant collar, adding lifelike movement.
What It Mimics
This fly replicates adult caddisflies—a key food source for many fish species. Its realistic profile, floating capability, and natural motion make it particularly effective during hatches when fish feed aggressively on the surface.
Best Fishing Techniques
The Sedge Fly works best during caddisfly hatches or when fish are actively feeding on surface insects. Cast it gently onto the water, allowing it to drift naturally with the current. For added realism, incorporate subtle twitches to imitate a struggling or skittering caddisfly.
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Lady Bug Fly
A charming pattern that mimics the iconic garden insect.
How to Tie It
The Lady Bug fly is typically tied on a small hook (sizes 14–18). The body is crafted from black and red foam to replicate the insect’s distinctive shape and colors.
After securing the foam to the hook, carefully cut and shape it to form the rounded body and wing partitions. For added realism, small black dots can be applied to the red wing covers.
Though precise foam cutting is required, the pattern is straightforward, making it an enjoyable and accessible project for tiers of all skill levels.
What It Mimics
As the name suggests, this fly imitates a ladybug. These beetles are common near water, especially in warmer months, and may accidentally land on the surface—becoming an easy target for hungry fish.
Where to Use It
The Lady Bug fly excels in still waters, such as ponds and slow-moving streams, where its distinct silhouette stands out to fish.
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