How It’s Tied
The Ant Fly replicates the appearance and buoyancy of a real ant using simple yet effective materials. A short-shank hook creates a compact profile, while the body is crafted from foam, fur, or dubbed synthetic fibers. Thread wraps or contrasting materials add segmentation, and rubber or synthetic fibers can be used for legs. This straightforward design allows for customization in size, color, and materials to match local insect hatches.
What It Mimics
This fly imitates ants and other small terrestrial insects that often fall onto the water’s surface. As a key food source for surface-feeding fish, the Ant Fly excels at triggering strikes, especially in summer or after rain when terrestrial activity is high. Its realistic yet simple design makes it a must-have for any fly angler.
Where It’s Used
Versatile and effective, the Ant Fly works well in rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds—particularly near overhanging vegetation, grassy banks, or areas with abundant terrestrial insects.
How to Fish It
Present the fly delicately on the surface, letting it drift naturally or adding subtle twitches to mimic a struggling insect. It can be fished alone as a dry fly or paired with a dropper nymph. Watch for gentle takes, as fish may sip it quietly, requiring a quick and precise hook set.
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How to Tie It
Begin with a sturdy hook (sizes 6–12). The body is crafted from two-toned foam, mimicking a grasshopper’s form while ensuring superior buoyancy. Rubber legs add lifelike movement when twitched or stripped. For extra realism and floatation, underwings made of elk hair or synthetic fibers complete the fly.
What It Mimics
True to its name, the Clod Hopper replicates grasshoppers—terrestrial insects that frequently land on water in summer, becoming prime targets for hungry fish.
Where to Use It
This fly shines in warm months when grasshoppers thrive. Target grassy banks or overhanging vegetation, where these insects often tumble into the water, triggering explosive strikes.
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The Alexandra is a traditional wet fly with an enticing, flashy appearance, designed to imitate small baitfish.
How to Tie the Alexandra Fly
Tied on a wet fly or streamer hook, the Alexandra uses materials that create a lively, eye-catching profile in the water. The body is typically made of flat or oval silver tinsel, wrapped around the hook shank for a slender shape. The tail consists of a few strands of red ibis or red hackle fibers, adding vivid contrast and attraction.
The head is formed by wrapping the tying thread and securing it with a whip finish or half hitch, creating a neat, compact finish that locks all materials in place.
What It Mimics
The Alexandra imitates small baitfish generically rather than a specific species. Matching local baitfish colors improves its effectiveness.
Where to Use It
This versatile fly works in all water types but excels in freshwater. It primarily targets smaller predatory fish like brown trout, rainbow trout, and bass.
Alexandra Fly Tying Video
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(Note: The original text had minor redundancies and unclear phrasing, which have been streamlined for conciseness and readability.)