Fly Fishing with Dragonflies: How to Catch Fish with Dragonflies

Introduction

Dragonflies are some of the most beautiful and fascinating creatures in the world. Not only are they an important part of the natural food chain, but they have also become popular with anglers who use them as bait. Fly fishing with dragonflies is a great way to catch fish, and it’s a lot of fun too! In this article, we will explore the basics of fly fishing with dragonflies, and discuss the best ways to catch fish with them.

Different Types of Dragonflies

There are many different species of dragonflies, and each one has its own unique characteristics. Some of the most common species used for fly fishing include the common green darner, the tiger darner, the giant darner, and the meadowhawk. Each species of dragonfly has its own unique colors, sizes, and behaviors, so it’s important to research the species you’ll be using before you head out to the lake or river.

Selecting the Right Dragonfly

When selecting a dragonfly for fly fishing, it’s important to choose one that is the right size and color for the type of fish you’re trying to catch. The size of the dragonfly should match the size of the fish you’re targeting, and the colors should mimic the colors of the fish’s natural prey. For example, if you’re fishing for bass, you should look for dragonflies with brown and yellow colors as these will blend in with the colors of the bass’ natural prey.

Tying the Dragonfly to the Fly Line

Once you’ve chosen the right dragonfly, it’s time to tie it to the fly line. To do this, you’ll need to use a clinch knot. To tie a clinch knot, you’ll need to thread the line through the eye of the dragonfly and then make five turns around the standing line. After the five turns, you’ll need to pass the line through the loop and pull it tight. Make sure the knot is snug so the dragonfly won’t move around too much on the line.

Casting the Dragonfly

Once the dragonfly is tied to the line, it’s time to cast it into the water. When casting, it’s important to remember that dragonflies are very light and will not cast as far as other flies. You should also make sure to use a slow, steady motion when casting so the dragonfly doesn’t fly off the line before it hits the water.

Hooking the Fish

When a fish takes the dragonfly, you should wait until it stops moving before setting the hook. This will ensure that the hook is securely in the fish’s mouth before you start to reel it in. When you do set the hook, it’s important to do it quickly and forcefully so the fish doesn’t have a chance to spit the dragonfly out.

Conclusion

Fly fishing with dragonflies is a great way to catch fish, and it can be a lot of fun too! It’s important to choose the right type of dragonfly for the type of fish you’re targeting, and to tie it securely to the fly line. Casting the dragonfly slowly and steadily is also important, and you should wait until the fish stops moving before setting the hook. With a little practice, you’ll be catching fish with dragonflies in no time!