If you’re looking to improve your fly fishing skills, learning how to fish terrestrials is a great place to start. Terrestrial flies imitate land-dwelling insects like ants, beetles, and grasshoppers, which are a major food source for trout during the late summer months.
One of the key techniques for fishing terrestrials is to focus on the banks of the river. Trout tend to feed on insects that fall into the water from the surrounding vegetation, so casting your fly near the banks can be very effective. Additionally, when fishing terrestrials, it’s important to move slowly and deliberately to avoid spooking the fish.
Choosing the right fly is also crucial when fishing terrestrials. Foam patterns like the Fat Albert and Parachute Beetle can be very effective, especially in faster or slower-moving water. By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to catching more trout with terrestrial flies.
Understanding Terrestrial Fishing
Terrestrial fishing is a technique that involves using flies that imitate land-based insects such as beetles, ants, and grasshoppers to catch fish. This section will cover what terrestrials are, why you should fish them, when and where to fish them, and some tips for success.
What are Terrestrials?
Terrestrials are land-based insects that fall into the water and become a food source for fish. They include ants, beetles, grasshoppers, bees, cicadas, and inchworms. These insects are not commonly found in the water, making them a unique food source for fish.
Why Fish Terrestrials?
Fishing terrestrials can be a highly effective technique, especially during the summer and fall when these insects are abundant. Terrestrial patterns can be fished on the surface or subsurface and can be used to target a variety of species, including trout.
When to Fish Terrestrials?
The best time to fish terrestrials is during the summer and fall when these insects are most abundant. They can also be effective during late summer when flows are high and water temperatures are warm. Terrestrial patterns can be fished in the afternoon when the wind is blowing, or in the evening when flying ants or caddis are present.
Where to Fish Terrestrials?
Terrestrial patterns can be fished in a variety of water types, including riffles, runs, pools, and undercut banks. When fishing terrestrials, look for shallow water near the banks where the current is slower. Trout will often hold in these areas and feed on insects that fall into the water.
When fishing terrestrials, it is important to match the size and color of the natural insects. Ant flies, beetle patterns and hopper imitations are some of the most effective patterns. You can fish these flies using a dry fly, dry-dropper, or nymph rig.
Terrestrial Patterns and Techniques
Choosing the Right Terrestrial Pattern
When selecting a terrestrial pattern, consider the time of year, water conditions, and the type of terrestrial insects present. Ants, bees, cicadas, and inchworms are all common terrestrials. Look for patterns that mimic these insects and match the size, color, and shape of the naturals. Dry flies, nymphs, and dry-dropper rigs are all effective options.
Casting Techniques for Terrestrial Fishing
When casting for terrestrials, aim for the banks and undercut banks where terrestrials are likely to fall into the water. Cast upstream and let the fly drift naturally downstream. Use a reach cast or a curve cast to avoid spooking rising trout.
Tippet Selection for Terrestrial Fishing
When selecting tippet for terrestrial fishing, consider the species of fish you are targeting, water temperature, and flow conditions. Use lighter tippet in slow-moving water and heavier tippet in high flows. Consider using fluorocarbon tippet for its low visibility and abrasion resistance. Remember to adjust your techniques based on the conditions and the behavior of the fish. With the right pattern and technique, you can successfully catch trout on terrestrials.
Reading the Water for Terrestrial Fishing
Terrestrial fishing requires a keen eye for reading the water. Knowing where to look for trout and where they are likely to be holding is crucial to your success. Here are some tips on how to read the water for terrestrial fishing:
Identifying the Best Water to Fish Terrestrials
Start by looking for slower-moving water, such as pools or runs, where trout are more likely to be feeding on terrestrials. Look for areas with undercut banks, which provide cover and shade for trout.
Reading the Current for Terrestrial Fishing
Pay attention to the current and look for areas where the current slows down or changes direction. These areas are likely to be holding feeding trout. Also, look for riffles, where terrestrials are often swept into the water and become easy prey for trout.
Using Structure to Your Advantage
Structure in the river, such as rocks and logs, can be used to your advantage when terrestrial fishing. Trout often hold behind or in front of these structures, waiting for terrestrials to float by. Cast your fly near these structures and let it drift naturally downstream.
Tips for Successful Terrestrial Fishing
When it comes to fishing terrestrials, there are a few tips and techniques that can help you increase your chances of success. Here are some things to consider:
Matching the Hatch
Just like with any other type of fly fishing, it’s important to match the hatch when fishing terrestrials. Take a look around and see what types of bugs are present, such as ants, bees, cicadas, or inchworms, and try to match your fly accordingly. Keep in mind that some species of fish may prefer certain types of terrestrials over others.
Fishing in Windy Conditions
When fishing terrestrials in windy conditions, it can be helpful to use a heavier fly to help cut through the wind. Additionally, look for areas where the wind is blowing towards undercut banks or other areas where fish may be hiding.
Fish Terrestrials in High Flows
When fishing terrestrials in high flows, it can be helpful to use a dry-dropper rig with a heavier nymph as the dropper. This will help your fly get down to where the fish are feeding. Additionally, look for slower-moving water where fish may be seeking refuge from the fast currents.
Fishing Terrestrials in Different Water Temperatures
When fishing terrestrials in different water temperatures, it’s important to pay attention to the behavior of the fish. In colder water temperatures, fish may be less active and more likely to feed on smaller midges or other naturals. In warmer water temperatures, fish may be more willing to take larger dry flies or terrestrials.