Fly Fishing Gear | Wet Flies

WHAT IS A WET FLY?

A wet fly is a type of fishing fly designed to imitate insects and other aquatic creatures in their sub-surface stages. Unlike dry flies, which float on the water’s surface, wet flies are intended to sink and drift below the surface. They often mimic various stages of aquatic insects, including nymphs, pupae, or small fish, and can also represent other food sources like worms or crustaceans. Wet flies are effective for catching fish that are feeding below the surface or in areas where surface insects are not present.

WHEN TO FISH WET FLIES

Wet flies are particularly effective when fish are not actively rising to the surface, such as during low insect activity, or when surface insects are scarce. They are versatile and can be used throughout the year, making them a reliable choice in various conditions. Wet flies are ideal for fishing in both moving and still water, especially in areas where fish are holding near the bottom or in deeper pools. They are also useful in situations with varying water clarity, as they can still attract fish despite reduced visibility.

WHAT IS AN IDEAL WET FLY SETUP?

For an ideal wet fly setup, the rod, line, leader, and tippet all need to be carefully selected to match the specific conditions and fishing techniques.

Rod: A rod suitable for wet fly fishing typically ranges from 3 to 6 weight, with a length of 8 to 10 feet. The rod should have a moderate action to facilitate casting and presentation of the wet flies, allowing for a smooth drift below the surface.

Line: The line used for wet fly fishing is usually a weight-forward floating line or an intermediate sink tip line. The floating line allows for easier casting and a more controlled presentation, while the sink tip line helps the wet fly reach the desired depth more quickly.

Leader: Leaders for wet fly fishing are generally 9 to 12 feet long. A tapered leader helps with turnover and smooth presentation. Depending on the fishing technique and water conditions, a slightly heavier leader may be used to ensure the fly sinks properly and to withstand the potential fight with larger fish.

Tippet: Tippets should be selected based on the size of the wet fly and the target fish. Tippet sizes for wet fly fishing typically range from 3X to 5X, with heavier tippets used for larger flies and fish. A strong, abrasion-resistant tippet is important for maintaining control and ensuring the durability of the setup.

If you have a particular wet fly setup in mind but would appreciate some additional advice. Simply get in touch with our friendly sales team – they’re always up for a chat. You can contact us by calling our Tumut store on (02) 6947 4062 or by email.