The Elk Hair Caddis, a staple in fly fishing, is renowned for its effectiveness in mimicking adult caddisflies and sedges. Developed by Al Troth in the 1950s, this fly has become a favourite among anglers for its buoyancy and versatility. Its design features a body of brown dubbing, a palmered hackle, and a distinctive wing made from elk hair, which provides excellent floatation and a lifelike silhouette.
Perfect for trout fishing, the Elk Hair Caddis excels in fast-moving waters, enticing fish with its realistic appearance and movement. Its durability and ease of use make it a must-have in any angler's fly box..
Elk Hair - Brown Caddis / Sedge Trout Fishing Fly
- Fishing Techniques.
The Elk Hair Caddis is best used in fast-flowing streams and rivers, where its buoyant design mimics adult caddisflies. To maximise effectiveness, cast upstream and allow the fly to drift naturally with the current, maintaining a drag-free presentation. Use a floating line and a tapered leader to enhance presentation. Employ short, quick strips to imitate a struggling insect if the fish are not responding to a dead drift. In slower waters, try a skittering technique by twitching the rod tip to create movement on the water's surface, enticing trout to strike. Adjust your tactics based on water conditions and fish behaviour.
Key Seasons - when is this
Caddis / Sedge Trout Fly
most effective?
The Elk Hair Caddis is most effective during late spring to early autumn, aligning with the peak caddisfly hatches. In the UK, this typically spans from May to September. During these months, trout are actively feeding on emerging caddisflies, making this fly an excellent choice. The best conditions for using the Elk Hair Caddis are warm, overcast days with a slight breeze, which encourages caddisfly activity. Evening fishing can be particularly productive as caddisflies often hatch at dusk. Ensure to match the fly size and colour to the local hatch for optimal results.
How does the Turrall Elk Hair - Brown Caddis / Sedge Trout Fly imitate a key stage in a fish's diet?
The Elk Hair Caddis fly mimics the adult stage of the caddisfly, specifically during its emergence when it transitions from water to air. This stage is crucial as the caddisfly becomes vulnerable, making it an easy target for trout. The fly's buoyant elk hair and hackle create a lifelike silhouette and movement on the water's surface, imitating the natural fluttering of the emerging insect. Trout are particularly drawn to this stage due to the abundance and accessibility of the caddisflies, providing a rich and easy meal. The fly's design effectively triggers the predatory instincts of the fish, making it a popular choice among anglers.
Elk Hair - Brown Caddis / Sedge Trout Fly expertly tied
by Turrall for maximum performance.
The Turrall Elk Hair Brown Caddis/Sedge Trout Fly is expertly tied using high-quality materials to ensure maximum performance on the water. The fly features a realistic profile, crafted with precision to mimic the natural appearance of a caddis or sedge, enticing even the most discerning trout. The use of premium elk hair provides excellent buoyancy and durability, allowing the fly to float naturally on the water's surface. This attention to detail makes it highly effective in various fishing conditions, ensuring anglers have a reliable and successful experience. Perfect for UK waters, this fly is a must-have in any angler's collection.
Turrall Elk Hair - Brown Caddis / Sedge Trout Fly CA08
- Turrall Premium Award-Winning Flies – The Best in Fly Fishing
England is the birthplace of fly fishing, and Turrall & Co. Ltd. is proud to be its longest-established company of professional fly dressers, crafting premium flies since the mid-nineteenth century. Over the years, Turrall has earned prestigious recognition from The Sunday Times, Country Living Magazine, and EFTTEX – the leading European Fishing Tackle Trade Association.
Every Turrall fly is the result of traditional craftsmanship fused with modern innovation, delivering consistent, high-performance results on the water. Turrall use only the finest materials, starting with high carbon steel hooks—needle-ground, surgically sharp, and double-coated for durability. Matched with world-class feathers and furs, including
Metz Genetic Hackles where appropriate, these hand-tied patterns are trusted by fly anglers worldwide.
