The Elk Hair Emerger Olive Trout Fly is a must-have for any angler targeting trout. Designed by Craig Mathews in the 1980s, this fly has become a staple in fly boxes worldwide. Its unique design features a buoyant elk hair wing, which mimics emerging insects, making it irresistible to trout. The olive body colour is particularly effective in matching various hatches, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Known for its versatility, the Elk Hair Emerger can be fished in both still and moving waters, making it a reliable choice for diverse fishing conditions. Its ability to float just below the surface film perfectly imitates an emerging insect, triggering aggressive strikes from feeding trout. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, this fly's proven track record and realistic presentation make it an essential addition to your collection..
Elk Hair Emerger Olive Trout Fishing Fly
- Fishing Techniques.
The Elk Hair Emerger Olive is a versatile fly designed to imitate emerging insects, particularly effective during hatches. To maximise its effectiveness, present the fly upstream and allow it to drift naturally with the current, ensuring a drag-free presentation. Use a floating line and a long leader to maintain a natural drift.
For retrieves, employ short, gentle twitches to mimic the struggling movements of an emerging insect. This can entice trout to strike. Tactics include targeting areas with slower currents near the banks or behind rocks where trout are likely to be feeding on emergers. Adjust your position to avoid spooking fish and maintain stealth.
Key Seasons - when is this
Caddis / Sedge Trout Fly
most effective?
The Elk Hair Emerger Olive is most effective during the spring and autumn months when olive hatches are prevalent. In spring, focus on late March to May, as the warming waters trigger the emergence of olives, making this fly a prime choice. Autumn, particularly September to early November, also sees significant olive activity, providing another excellent opportunity.
Use this fly during overcast days or when the water is slightly choppy, as these conditions mimic the natural environment of emerging insects. Early morning and late afternoon are ideal times, aligning with peak hatch periods.
How does the Turrall Elk Hair Emerger Olive Trout Fly imitate a key stage in a fish's diet?
The Elk Hair Emerger Olive fly is designed to mimic the emerging stage of a mayfly, specifically the Baetis species, commonly known as the Blue-Winged Olive. During this stage, the nymph rises to the water's surface to shed its exoskeleton and transform into a dun. This vulnerable transition makes it an easy target for trout, as the insect is momentarily trapped in the surface film, struggling to break free.
The fly's buoyant elk hair and olive body replicate the natural appearance and movement of the emerging mayfly, enticing fish to strike due to its lifelike presentation and the promise of an easy meal.
Elk Hair Emerger Olive Trout Fly expertly tied
by Turrall for maximum performance.
The Turrall Elk Hair Emerger Olive Trout Fly is expertly tied using high-quality materials to ensure maximum performance on the water. Crafted with precision, the fly features a realistic profile that mimics natural insects, making it irresistible to trout. The use of premium elk hair provides buoyancy and a lifelike appearance, while the olive body colour enhances its effectiveness in various water conditions.
Designed for durability and effectiveness, this fly is a must-have for anglers seeking success. Its superior construction and attention to detail make it a top choice for fly fishing enthusiasts.
Turrall Elk Hair Emerger Olive Trout Fly CA77
- 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.
