Show Notes:
Episode 17: Why the Gomphus Fly is a Must-Have for Stillwater Anglers
Welcome back to The Stillwater Edge! Today, we’re diving into one of the most productive and versatile flies in Stillwater fishing—the Gomphus Fly.
If you want a fly that triggers aggressive strikes, mimics a high-calorie food source, and can be fished multiple ways, then this episode is for you.
In this episode, I’ll cover:
✔ What the Gomphus Fly is and why it’s so effective
✔ Where to find dragonfly nymphs in a lake
✔ The best techniques for fishing the Gomphus Fly
✔ Pro tips to maximize your success with this pattern
By the end, you’ll understand why every Stillwater angler should have this fly in their box.
Key Takeaways:
What is the Gomphus Fly?
- A realistic dragonfly nymph imitation that mimics a natural, calorie-rich food source for trout.
- Traditionally tied with deer hair, but available in various styles and materials.
- A bulky, curved pattern designed to imitate the natural movement of dragonfly nymphs.
Why Do Trout Love the Gomphus Fly?
✔ Large and Visible – Dragonfly nymphs are a high-value meal, making them irresistible to trout.
✔ Lifelike Movement – Mimics a darting, crawling motion, triggering aggressive predatory strikes.
✔ Year-Round Availability – Unlike other hatches, dragonfly nymphs are active in lakes all year, even in winter.
Where to Find Dragonfly Nymphs in a Lake
- Weedy Flats – Prime habitat with cover and food.
- Shallow Margins (Less than 10 feet) – Especially in early mornings and late evenings.
- Mucky or Sandy Bottoms – Nymphs burrow for protection.
- Drop-Off Zones & Shoals – Trout will ambush nymphs moving between zones.
How to Fish the Gomphus Fly
✔ 1. Slow Hand Retrieve
- Mimic a crawling dragonfly nymph moving across the bottom.
- Keep retrieves irregular with occasional pauses and short bursts.
✔ 2. Sink & Pull (Short Strip Method)
- Use a full sinking line, let the fly settle, then strip aggressively to imitate a nymph escaping a predator.
✔ 3. Hovering Motion
- Use a hover or parabolic sinking line to keep the fly just above weed beds.
- Perfect for enticing strikes from trout cruising for prey.
✔ 4. Trolling or Drifting
- A great option for beginners or kids—let the fly drift naturally or troll it slowly with a full sink line.
- The takes on a drifting Gomphus can be explosive.
✔ 5. Indicator Fishing (Experimental Technique)
- Suspend the Gomphus Fly a foot off the bottom under an indicator.
- Some anglers have had great success with this method, and I’ll be testing it more this season.
Pro Tips for Fishing the Gomphus Fly
✔ Carry Weighted & Unweighted Versions – Weighted flies help you reach deeper trout, especially in warm months.
✔ Use a Shorter Leader for Deep Water – Keeps the fly in the strike zone longer.
✔ Fish it in the Right Zones – Target flats, drop-offs, and soft-bottomed areas where dragonfly nymphs thrive.
Call to Action (CTA):
The Gomphus Fly is a Stillwater game-changer. Whether you’re fishing in the shallows, drop-offs, or deep zones, this fly will get results.
Try out these tactics and let me know your success!
- Have you fished the Gomphus Fly before? DM me on Instagram (@stillwateredge) and share your experience.
- Subscribe to The Stillwater Edge for weekly expert Stillwater fishing insights.
- Share this episode with a fishing buddy who needs to add this fly to their box!
Episode Outro:
That’s a wrap for today’s episode! The Gomphus Fly isn’t just another fly—it’s a must-have for Stillwater anglers looking to trigger aggressive takes from cruising trout.
By fishing it slow, fast, deep, or shallow, you’ll have a reliable, versatile pattern that works all season long.
If you enjoyed today’s episode, subscribe, leave a review, and follow me on Instagram (@stillwateredge). I’d love to hear about your results with the Gomphus Fly!
Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing!
