Perdigon Flies: The Secret Weapon for Small Creek Fishing
Posted by Darren MacEachern on
Fishing with perdigon flies on small creeks can be a highly rewarding experience for fly anglers of all skill levels. These tiny, nymph-like flies are incredibly effective at mimicking the natural aquatic nymphs that trout and other fish feed on, making them a go-to choice for many anglers. In this post, we'll take a closer look at what perdigon flies are, how to fish with them on small creeks, and some tips for success.
Perdigon flies, also known as "Pellet flies", are a type of fly that originated in Europe. They are small, simple flies that are tied on a jig hook, with a bead head (typically tungsten) and a smooth body. The body is typically made of thread or tinsel and can include a fine wire ribbing. The bead heads are usually made from brass or the heavier tungsten and may be a variety of shapes including countersunk, slotted or offset. A tail of 4-6 feather fibers are used in the tail, often being a speckled feather like Hungarian partridge or Coq de Leon Pardo hackle. Perdigon flies are highly effective at mimicking the natural aquatic insects that trout and other fish feed on, and they are particularly well suited for small creeks.
When fishing with perdigon flies on small creeks, the key is to match the size and color of the fly to the natural insects that are present in the water. This can be done by observing the insects on the water's surface, under rocks, and in spider webs near the water, or by collecting samples and studying them under magnification. Try to match the size and color of the fly to the size and color of the fish that you are targeting.
Once you have selected the appropriate perdigon fly, you can begin fishing by casting the fly upstream and allowing it to drift downstream. As the fly drifts downstream, it should be allowed to "dead drift" as much as possible, which means that it should be allowed to move with the current without any additional movement or action on your part. Try to eliminate any slack in the line so you can feel the fly bounce on the river bed and set the hook when you feel resistance.
Some of my most successful perdigons include Gasolina, Rainbow Warrior, and the Caramelo in sizes 12-16. I also carry a few bright blue or green flies to try out if fishing is slow. You would be surprised how well a blue perdigon can work.
When fishing with perdigon flies on small creeks, it's important to use a light tippet and a delicate presentation. This will help to minimize the amount of drag on the fly, and will make it more difficult for the fish to detect the fly. It's also important to be stealthy and move quietly when approaching the creek, as the fish can be easily spooked by loud noises or sudden movements. Start your fishing close to the bank and after a couple passes, fish further into the water so that you don't spoil the water by bombing down the middle on the first pass.
In addition to matching the fly to the natural insects, it's important to pay attention to the water conditions. On small creeks, the water is often crystal clear, and the fish can be very wary. Therefore, it's important to use a stealthy approach and to fish with the sun at your back, so that your shadow doesn't fall on the water. Avoid bright clothing and step lightly as fish are sensitive to vibration.
Another important factor to consider when fishing with perdigon flies on small creeks is the time of day. Early morning and late evening are typically the best times to fish, as the water is cooler and the fish are more active. Additionally, overcast days can be especially good, as the fish are less likely to be spooked by shadows on the water.
In addition to these tips, it's also important to be aware of the regulations and licensing requirements for fishing in the area. Small creeks are often protected by conservation laws, and it's important to be aware of the rules and regulations that apply to the area. Consult the local regulations to be sure you are following the guidelines.
