ANT FLYING

Description

The Flying Ant is a must-have terrestrial pattern that imitates the winged stage of ants, a natural occurrence that often creates frenzied feeding among trout. During warm summer months, swarms of flying ants emerge in huge numbers and get blown onto rivers, lakes, and streams. Trout quickly recognize them as an easy, protein-rich food source, often keying in on these insects while ignoring other hatches.

This pattern is tied with a slender segmented body, realistic wings, and just enough buoyancy to ride low in the surface film, imitating a helpless ant struggling on the water. Its dark profile makes it easy for fish to see, while the subtle sparkle or wing shimmer helps trigger strikes.

The Flying Ant excels in stillwaters, back eddies, and slow pools where insects accumulate, but it is equally effective in freestone rivers when swarms occur. Fish it alone on a fine tippet or pair it with a visible attractor dry for tracking in choppy water. When trout are selective and keyed in on ants, this fly is one of the most productive patterns you can throw.

From high mountain lakes to crowded local streams, fish dine on ants and other terrestrials as they fall into the water. With the Flying Ant pattern, turn that feeding instinct against them and catch fish when no one else can.