F Fly
The F Fly is a minimalist CDC trout fly that excels as both a caddis emerger and tiny dry pattern. It is famous for fooling selective trout in clear water because the sparse body and natural CDC wing look alive without excess material.
Imitates: Small caddis adults and emergers
Quick Reference
- Best Sizes
- #14-20
- Best Season
- Spring through fall
- Best Conditions
- Clear rivers, spring creeks, flat glides, and caddis hatches
- Water Temp
- 48-66°F
- Recommended Tippet
- 5X-7X
How to Rig It
Fish it alone to rising trout or as the top fly in a small dry-dropper rig with an emerger behind it.
How to Present It
Drift it drag-free with as little false casting as possible to preserve the CDC wing.
Why It Works
CDC gives the fly natural movement, flotation, and a very alive footprint on the water.
History
Originating in Europe, the F Fly became an international favorite for anglers who value sparse, impressionistic trout flies.
Pro Tip
Carry floatant for the tippet, not the CDC itself. Powder and drying treatments work better than greasy liquid on this fly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an F Fly imitate?+
Usually a small caddis adult or emerger, though trout also take it as a general tiny dry fly.
Not sure if F Fly is right today?
Get a fly recommendation based on live water temp, flow, sky, and time of day for any river in the US.
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