Crane Fly

Overview: The Crane Fly, often referred to as a "daddy longlegs," is a long-legged insect commonly found near slow-moving streams, ponds, and damp meadows. Adult Crane Flies resemble oversized mosquitoes but are harmless to humans. These insects play an essential role in aquatic ecosystems, and trout eagerly feed on both their larval and adult stages. Crane Fly hatches are particularly active in late summer and early fall, providing excellent opportunities for anglers to target trout with unique imitations. Larval Stage (Nymph): Crane Fly larvae, often called "leatherjackets," are plump and cylindrical, measuring 1/2 to 1 1/2 inches in length. They have soft, grayish-brown to olive bodies with segmented abdomens. Found in muddy or sandy streambeds, they are a high-protein meal for trout. Effective fly imitations are tied on hook sizes 8 to 12, with weighted patterns for dredging along the bottom. Fish these flies near soft edges, undercut banks, or silty pools using a slow dead-drift presentation. Adult Stage (Dry): Adult Crane Flies are slender, measuring 1 to 1 1/2 inches in body length, with long, delicate legs and tan to gray bodies. When they fall into the water, their struggling movements make them easy prey for fish. Dry fly patterns tied on hook sizes 8 to 12 are ideal for mimicking adults. Present these patterns with a slight drag or skittering motion to imitate their natural flailing on the surface. Focus on fishing during warm, calm evenings when adults are most active.