A dry-dropper setup is an effective way to catch fish, especially when you’re not sure what they’re feeding on. This technique involves suspending a nymph or other subsurface fly beneath a dry fly, allowing you to present two different patterns to fish at different depths. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up nymphs off dry flies for a double setup on a fly rod:
Choosing the Right Gear
Before setting up your dry-dropper rig, make sure you have the right gear. You’ll need a fly rod, reel, and line suitable for the type of fishing you’ll be doing. A 9-foot, 5-weight rod is a good all-around choice for dry-dropper fishing.
Setting Up the Dry-Dropper Rig
There are three main ways to set up a dry-dropper rig:
- Tied Off the Bend of the Dry Fly Hook: This is the quickest way to get a dry-dropper setup. Simply tie a dry fly to the end of your leader, then tie a piece of monofilament to the bend of the dry fly hook using a clinch knot or Orvis knot. Attach the dropper fly to the end of the monofilament using a similar knot.
- Tied Through the Eye of the Dry Fly Hook: This method involves tying the monofilament through the eye of the dry fly hook, which can be more challenging but provides a cleaner presentation.
- Using a Triple Surgeon’s Knot: This method involves tying a triple surgeon’s knot to attach the dropper tippet to the leader. This allows both flies to move more independently, making it ideal for fishing in moving water.
Tips for Fishing a Dry-Dropper Rig
- Choose the Right Flies: Select a dry fly that’s buoyant and visible, such as a Tabonas or CDC & Elk pattern. For the dropper, choose a nymph or other subsurface fly that imitates the natural insects in the water.
- Adjust the Depth: Adjust the length of the dropper tippet to control the depth at which the nymph drifts. This will depend on the water depth and the type of fish you’re targeting.
- Set the Hook: When a fish takes the nymph, the dry fly will typically dip or hesitate. Set the hook by lifting the rod tip.
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