Crane Fly

The Crane Fly is a fly that is not found on all rivers, but when it is present it is a great fly to fish.  Crane flies seem to like smaller tail waters one of the best of these in Montana is the Beaverhead River.  The Beaverhead River is produces more large brown trout (16-18” very common) than any other river in Montana and a Crane Fly is a great way to catch them. 

Usually prime dry fly fishing of the Crane Fly starts around mid July and can last well into October. Windy days often produce the best results as Crane Flies are not very aerodynamic and fall off of foliage near the water is numbers that soon catch the attention of fish.  

Recipe – Crane Fly

-  Hook – 4 or 6X Long Shank, Size 14 – 10 light of wire as possible
-  Thread – 6/0 Light Brown or Carmel
-  Body – 2 inches of1/8 inch Heat Shrink Tubing Colored Brown or Carmel
-  Wing – Saddle Hackle Dark Barred Ginger – Sometimes called Grizzly
-  Legs – Hairline Crazy Legs Gold or Similar

Fish this fly calmer water especially under overhanging bushes and trees.

Crane Fly Nymphs or Larvae

Crane Fly nymphs or larvae can be fished when water temperatures begin to rise in late winter and early spring.  The water temperature should be approaching 40 degrees so the fish are becoming more active. 

Recipe Crane Fly Nymph

- Hook – Curved Nymph Hook Any Brand 4-10

- Weight – Lead Free Wire

- Body - Latex Tubing 1/8 to 3/16 Inch Colored Green

- Thread – 6.0 Black

- Rib – Copper Wire

- Head – Black Foam

Fish this nymph in less than fast moving water with a light to heavy gravel bottom and some moss.  The best technique I have found is to bounce it along the bottom.