Daddy Long Legs

Crane fly terrestrial

TroutSurface

Knotted pheasant-tail legs splayed around a foam body — it looks like a crane fly because it is meant to, and in late summer when the real things blow onto the water, trout lose all caution. Fish it static on a stillwater or drift it downstream on a river. The takes are often savage and visible, which never gets old.

Fish this when

Late summer (August–September) when crane flies are falling into the water. Fish it on calm, warm evenings when trout are actively feeding on terrestrials.

Why it works

Lanky outline with trailing legs is instantly recognizable. Trout see them falling every year. Often triggers takes from otherwise selective fish.

Naturals it imitates