Ant Fly

Ant

Mimicking an ant that's struggling on the water surface, this pattern can result in some spectacular strikes.

How it's tied

The Ant Fly is tied using a combination of materials that help replicate the appearance and buoyancy of a real ant. Typically, a short shank hook is used to create the small profile, while the body is formed from materials such as foam, fur, or dubbed synthetic fibers. The fly's segmented appearance can be achieved by using thread wraps or a small section of a contrasting material. To further enhance realism, legs made from rubber or synthetic fibers can be added to the fly. The simplicity of the Ant Fly allows for variations in size, color, and materials to match local insect populations.

What it mimics

The Ant Fly is designed to imitate ants and other small terrestrial insects that often find themselves on the water's surface. These insects are a significant food source for many surface feeding fish, making the Ant Fly a valuable addition to any fly angler's arsenal. Its simple yet realistic design can trigger the feeding instinct of fish, especially during periods when terrestrial insects are more prevalent, such as during summer months or after a rainstorm.

Where it's used

The Ant Fly is versatile and can be used in various water types, including rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. It is particularly effective in areas where terrestrial insects are abundant, such as near overhanging trees, bushes, or grassy banks. 

To fish the Ant Fly effectively, present it delicately on the water's surface, allowing it to drift naturally with the current or using subtle twitches to mimic a struggling insect. This fly pattern can be used as a standalone dry fly or in combination with other patterns, such as a dropper nymph. Be prepared for subtle takes, as fish may gently sip the fly off the surface, requiring a quick and attentive hook set.

Fly tying video for the Ant

Variations

Ant Ant Ant

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Fish you can can fly fish for with the Ant

Brook trout

Brown Trout

Common Carp

Cutthroat Trout

Golden Trout

Grayling

Marble Trout

Rainbow Trout

Roach

Steelhead

Ants, Bees, and Wasps (Latin: Hymenoptera)

The Ant mimics one or more species from the insect order Ants, Bees, and Wasps

Latin: Hymenoptera

Hymenoptera includes ants, bees, and wasps, insects that play vital roles in pollination, predation, and ecosystem balance.

Read more about Ants, Bees, and Wasps

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