Fur Ants

by

Eugene P. Macri Jr.

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© 2006 E. P. Macri Jr.

Fur Ants

Ants are one of the deadliest patterns on limestone and freestone streams alike.  You should have a selection of sizes 14 thru 24.  Use the largest pattern that the fish will take. Look for fish that will take an ant.  Ants fall into the stream all summer long.  Trout against a bank or under brush.  Fish get accustomed to taking ants whether

there are many on the water or not.  Put some floatant on the bodies.  Any type of dry fly stuff will do.  Fish the ants upstream with long, light tippets.  If the fish come up but do not take,  there are a number of possible problems. First, make sure you don´t have drag.  Second, if you are sure you don´t have drag go to a smaller pattern. Third, if all else fails try a different color.

Don´t forget to carry some large black ants with you too.  These size 14 ants will take fish when the smaller ones won´t.  There are some large ants along many trout streams. Look for rotting logs near the water!  You might be surprised at what you find.  Rods that handle 2, 3, or 4 weights have the delicacy needed to present these small flies.  Ants will work until the cold weather hits. They will often bring a fish up that no other pattern can. 

Tying Tips: Start thread at rear of hook. Spin some rabbit fur and make the first hump or part of the abdomen.  Tie off and tie on a small dry fly hackle of the correct color.  Make only one wrap.  Tie off hackle and spin fur for the second hump or thorax.  Whip finish.  These are easy to tie and extremely deadly