Fly fishing is a popular sport that requires skill, patience, and knowledge of various fly patterns. One such pattern is the black gnat fly, which has a long history and remains a favorite among anglers. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of the this fly pattern, what type of fly pattern it is, what type of fish species it is used to catch, and what type of technique is used to fish it.
History of the Black Gnat Fly Pattern
The black gnat fly pattern is a classic pattern that has been around for over a century. It was first mentioned in angling literature in 1870 in the book “The Practical Angler” by W.C. Stewart. The pattern is believed to have originated in Scotland, where it was used to imitate the black midge or gnat that is prevalent in Scottish rivers and streams.
This pattern was quickly adopted by anglers in England and became a popular pattern for fishing on stillwaters and slow-moving streams. The fly has evolved over time, with variations that include wings and hackle, but the basic black body and head have remained the same.
Type of Fly Pattern
The black gnat fly pattern is a dry fly, which means that it is designed to float on the surface of the water. Dry flies are often used when fishing for trout and other species that feed on insects on the water’s surface.
This pattern is tied with a slender black body and a small, round black head. It is often tied with a sparse hackle or wing, but some variations may include a fuller hackle or a wing made of materials like deer hair or CDC (cul de canard) feathers.
Fish Species Targeted
The black gnat fly pattern is primarily used to catch trout, but it can also be effective for other species such as grayling, panfish, and bass. The fly imitates a small insect, so it is best used during hatches of midges or other small flies.
Fishing Technique for Black Gnat Fly Pattern
When fishing this pattern, anglers typically cast the fly upstream and allow it to drift down to the fish. The fly should be presented with a drag-free drift, meaning that it moves naturally with the current. A gentle twitch or twitch-and-pause retrieve can also be effective in enticing fish to strike.
In conclusion, the black gnat fly pattern is a classic fly that has been used by anglers for over a century. It is a dry fly designed to float on the water’s surface and imitate the black midge or gnat. The fly is primarily used to catch trout and can be fished with a drag-free drift or a gentle retrieve. Next time you’re out on the water, try tying on this pattern and see if you can entice a fish to strike.
If you are just beginning your fly fishing journey and want to learn more, check out my post on fly fishing for beginners!