Parachute Damsel or Dragonfly

The Parachute Damsel/Dragonfly is a versatile dry fly designed to suggest both adult damselflies and dragonflies with a single silhouette. The parachute hackle allows the fly to ride low and stable on the surface, matching the way these insects sit and struggle when egg-laying or resting. Its broad profile, strong flotation, and high visibility make it effective on lakes and slow rivers, especially during summer when trout key on large, high-protein insects near the surface.

Cast the fly near submerged vegetation or along the edges of weed beds. A slow, steady retrieve can help mimic the natural movement, increasing the likelihood of attracting trout.