06/09/2026
Clay county's trout fishing headquarters TM.
One way to catch more trout is by learning the bugs!
You don't need to memorize every bug and their Latin names, but every fly angler should know these 4 major aquatic insect groups:
Mayflies
Slender nymphs, upright-winged adults, and the backbone of classic dry fly fishing. When trout are rising aggressively, mayflies are often the culprit.
Caddisflies
Worm-like larvae and tent-winged adults. Caddis can be a huge food source, especially when fish are chasing movement in the drift or reacting to skittering adults.
Stoneflies
Sturdy nymphs that live in cold, clean, moving water. They're a major meal for trout, especially in rocky riffles and faster runs.
Midges
Tiny, year-round food. They're easy to miss, but trout don't overlook them, especially in colder months and slower water.
Trout will tell you what they want if you slow down and pay attention.
