Horse Play

The Horse Play, designed by RIO Products, was inspired by the abundant Deer Flies, commonly known as Horse Flies, that were observed while fishing the Dean River in British Columbia. Anglers noticed not only the irritating presence of these flies but also the aggressive strikes of steelhead targeting them. The Horse Play is a distinctive pattern designed to imitate the look and movement of a Deer Fly in distress. The fly's realistic proportions and materials mimic the erratic flight and struggle of an adult Horse Fly, which steelhead instinctively target with a vengeful attitude when they get the chance.

Use a Slow Retrieve with Jerks: The Horse Play mimics the struggle of a trapped or distressed Horse Fly, so use a slow retrieve with occasional jerks or twitches to make the fly appear as though it is struggling in the current. This will attract the attention of steelhead, as they tend to strike aggressively at anything that looks like an easy meal or an irritating pest.