In its simplest form, fly fishing consists of fooling a fish into eating something that is not real. For centuries, fishermen have been tying materials onto hooks in an attempt to imitate natural food sources. This practice continues today with anglers using a combination of modern and traditional techniques to construct realistic fly patterns.
Dry Flies
A dry fly is designed for use on the water surface or in the surface film. A successful pattern causes a fish to rise from below to take the fly. Dry flies are tied to imitate a variety of insects such as mayflies, caddis flies, stoneflies and dragonflies. Some patterns take the form of animals like frogs and mice. While many dry flies are designed to accurately portray natural foods, attractor patterns are tied with bright colors and bear little resemblance to anything a fish might see in the wild. These flies elicit an aggressive response from fish or draw strikes due to curiosity. Most dry flies are fished using a dead drift technique which allows the fly to drift naturally on the water's surface.
Nymphs
Nymph patterns are designed to be fished below the surface. They are effective in rivers, streams, lakes and ponds. Nymphs are tied to imitate aquatic insects that are still in their underwater stage. Theses insects make up a large portion of a fish's diet. Nymphs are often tied with wire underbodies or metal beads to add weight and help them get near the bottom. They can be dead drifted in moving water or retrieved slowly in standing water.
Wet Flies
Wet flies date to the early 18th century. They are tied in a variety of patterns. Some are made with brightly colored feathers to get the attention of a fish, while others imitate hatching insects that are swimming toward the surface. Wet flies are traditionally fished in moving water using a wet fly swing. This technique is executed by casting across the current, allowing the line to tighten and then letting the fly "swing" across the current downstream of the angler. The fly moves across the current just below the water's surface. To fish a wet fly in deeper water, add a small amount of weight to the leader or use a sink tip line. Additionally, mending the line will help slow the fly down while allowing it to sink to a greater depth.
Streamers
Streamers are flies that are designed to be fished actively. They mimic natural foods that swim quickly through the water. Freshwater streamers are tied to imitate minnows, leaches and crayfish. Saltwater fly fishermen use streamers to impersonate various baitfish, squid, shrimp, crabs and eels that larger predatory fish feed on. Cast and retrieve streamers at different speeds until you discover one that works. Use line strong enough to stand up to the violent strike of feeding game fish.
Classic Salmon Flies
Fly tying is considered an art form. This is no better exemplified than by looking at some of the classic salmon flies of the 18th and 19th centuries. These ornate patterns are tied with rare and exotic materials that are expensive and difficult to find. Today, imitation feathers and synthetic materials allow even the novice tier the opportunity to create a beautiful and functional fly. Those who continue to work with traditional techniques and materials often tie with the intent of displaying their creations on a mantle rather than in the mouth of a hungry salmon. Depending on the pattern and materials used, classic salmon flies created by well-known tiers often sell for hundreds of dollars.
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