How to Match the Hatch in Fly Fishing

The emergence of aquatic insects is fondly referred to as the "hatch" by fly fishers. Throughout the course of the day, fish eat these insects, which vary in size, color and species. One of the greatest challenges—and greatest joys—of fly fishing is to "match the hatch" by using artificial flies that closely replicate the real insects hatching. The ability to match the hatch has been proven to greatly increase a fly fisher's chance of catching a fish.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Fishing equipment
• Insect guidebook
• Fly box

1. Find out what insects are hatching at the time of year and time of day that you are fishing.
2. Observe the surface of the water to identify which insects the fish are feeding on. If you don't have a basic knowledge of entomology (the study of insects), bring along an insect identification guide.
3. Sit down along the bank for a moment and watch the insects flying around the bushes or above the water. Notice their size, shape and color, then try to identify the species.
4. Look through your fly box and choose a fly that most closely resembles the insect you see.
5. Select the best location to stand and cast. Insects on the water will be floating at the speed of the current, so cast into the current and let your fly float along with them. Insects along the bank will often fall into the water off branches or grass, so try standing away from the shore and casting back along the bank.
6. Identify how insects are landing on the water, and try to mimic this with your fly. If the insects are big and splash when landing on the water, make the fly hit the water with a splash. If the insects struggle or skitter on the surface, twitch the fly slightly to give it motion.
7. Experiment with different sizes or colors of flies and make sure that the presentation and cast are correct for the type of fly you are fishing.

Tips & Warnings

• If the fish refuse the fly, adjust the color slightly until you find what attracts them.
• Heavy line can make small flies float unnaturally, so try switching to a smaller-diameter leader or tippet.