A dropper fly is used by attaching it to the fishing line above your primary fly to offer fish multiple options.
Understanding the Dropper Fly Setup
A dropper rig is a popular method in fly fishing, allowing anglers to present two flies at different depths and with varying characteristics. Here's how it works, based on the provided reference:
- Primary Fly (Point Fly): This is the main fly at the end of your tippet. Typically, a bead head nymph or an emerger is used as the point fly because they are heavier and help sink the dropper rig.
- Dropper Fly: This is the secondary fly, attached to the tippet above the primary fly. It is generally a lighter fly.
- Tippet Length: The tippet attaching the dropper to the point fly is usually the same depth as the water you are fishing. The reference mentions this as a key factor.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here's a breakdown of how to set up and fish with a dropper fly rig:
- Tie on your Point Fly: Start by tying your chosen bead head nymph or emerger to the end of your tippet.
- Attach the Dropper Tippet: About 12-18 inches above your point fly, tie in another section of tippet. This creates the "dropper" for the second fly. A common method for doing this is a blood knot or a triple surgeon's knot. This is where you will connect the dropper fly.
- Tie on the Dropper Fly: Attach your second fly to the free end of the dropper tippet. You can use a simple clinch knot here. The dropper fly is usually lighter than the point fly.
- Fishing with the Dropper: Cast the rig upstream or across the current, allowing the flies to drift naturally. The point fly will sink faster, while the dropper fly will often be presented closer to the surface.
- Vary your Flies: Experiment with different combinations of flies. For example, using a nymph on the bottom and a dry fly on the dropper, allows you to fish at two different depths, targeting fish feeding at different levels.
Advantages of using a Dropper Fly
- Increased Presentation: By using two flies, you increase your chances of attracting a fish.
- Depth Coverage: The dropper and point fly will cover two different depths which increases your chances for a fish to bite.
- Flexibility: You can experiment with different patterns and sizes of flies to determine what the fish are feeding on.
Example Setup
| Component | Example | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Point Fly | Bead Head Nymph (e.g., Hare's Ear) | Sinks quickly, anchors the rig |
| Dropper Tippet | 12-18 inches of tippet (2X - 6X) | Creates the dropper to the point fly. Same depth as the water being fished. |
| Dropper Fly | Emerger (e.g., Zebra Midge) | Lighter fly presented higher in the water column |
By understanding these steps and concepts, you can effectively use a dropper fly to increase your catch rate.
