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Step 1
Begin by determining whether the fly is a dry, wet or nymph. Beyond this, wet flies may also be streamers and nymphs may be weighted.
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Step 2
Observe the size of the fly. The size may provide insight as to what type of insect the fly is imitating and is a great tool in identifying a fly pattern. A small fly may indicate that it is designed for trout while a large fly with long feather streamers may be used for larger salt water fish.
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Step 3
Determine what stage of insect development the fly is attempting to imitate. This is an important step in identifying the fly, as developmental stages of insects will usually have different features depending on the insect.
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Step 4
Use the color of the fly as a guide in identification. For example, a small bright yellow and black fly will most likely be a bee imitation. A blue and light gray or silver streamer may be imitating a small minnow.
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Step 5
Use a good quality reference book such as the Orvis Fly Tying Guide available from Orvis.com. Fly pattern books are often a good source of reference as there will be close up photos of flies for aid in tying. There are also online resources such as UK's Premier Fly Fishing & Fly Tying Guide that offer practical guides and advice.
