Composed by: CiCi Oliver, Ugly Bug Fly Shop
Picture courtesy Ugly Bug Fly Shop
Late-summer indicates lower water levels and greater temperature levels here in main Wyoming, so we like to provide the trout a break and concentrate on a less-appreciated and less-fragile quarry: the typical carp. We take Rocky Mountain flats-fishing quite seriously, running full-day skiff journeys on Pathfinder tank all season long. While fly-fishing for carp can be discouraging even for knowledgeable anglers, enhancing your fly choice and discussion methods can significantly increase your possibilities for success. Below are 5 of our preferred carp fly patterns, together with some basic pointers on getting ready. In the next chapter, I go over some particular techniques for utilizing these flies better.
1. Carp Crack (black, size 6)
The reliable Carp Fracture is created for flats-fishing the Great Plains, however it works here simply as well. It’s not too heavy and has a basic profile that is suggestive of several victim types.
2. Carp Craw (olive, size 8)
The Carp Craw is among my preferred crayfish patterns for any area in the West. Usage short, fast strips to mimic a running away crayfish.
3. Wabbit Worm (black, size 8)
Catch’s Wabbit Worm can be an alluring carp pattern when removed gradually, leaving a mud path throughout the bottom.
4. Fat Albert (brown, size 10)
The Fat Albert was created to mimic nearly any terrestrial bug. This pattern is extremely efficient when fished alone, or with an included dropper, such as a Hope Damsel nymph.
5. Turk’s Tarantula (tan, size 8)
The Turk’s Tarantula dry fly is a pure attractor pattern, loosely mimicing either a terrestrial or an adult stonefly. The overstated wing, long rubber legs, and bigger head produce an appealing target.
A 7- or 8-weight rod rigged with drifting line is best. Attempt utilizing a 10-foot, all-fluorocarbon leader tapering down to 12-pound tippet. The additional tightness assists when providing longer casts, and fluoro likewise sinks quicker. We normally connect flies with loop knots in order to enable them to move more easily.
CiCi Oliver works for Ugly Bug Fly Shop in Casper, Wyoming
