Blue Wing Olive Dry

The Blue Wing Olive (BWO) dry fly is one of the most iconic and widely used patterns in modern trout fishing, tracing its roots back to early English mayfly imitations of the 1800s. Its current form gained traction in the United States through the Catskill school of fly tying, especially in the mid-20th century as anglers sought more realistic representations of the prolific Baetis mayflies. Often mistaken as a singular species, “Blue Wing Olive” generally refers to a complex of Baetis and Drunella mayflies that hatch during cooler, overcast weather across nearly all trout waters. The pattern remains indispensable thanks to its ability to match a wide range of small olive-bodied mayflies emerging from early spring through late fall.

Use a Downstream Presentation: These tiny mayflies require delicate drifts. Approach from upstream and present the fly downstream with slack in the line to avoid drag. Fish are especially selective during BWO hatches.