The Hares Ear Bristol Hopper is a classic trout fly, renowned for its versatility and effectiveness in UK waters. Originating from the traditional Hares Ear pattern, this fly is designed to mimic a variety of aquatic insects, making it a staple in any angler's fly box. Its key features include a bushy hackle and a body crafted from hare's ear dubbing, which provides a lifelike appearance and excellent buoyancy.
The Bristol Hopper variation enhances the original design with a more pronounced silhouette, making it particularly effective in choppy waters. This fly's adaptability to different fishing conditions and its proven track record in catching trout make it a must-have for both novice and experienced anglers..
The Hares Ear Bristol Hopper is a versatile trout fishing fly that excels in both stillwater and river environments. To maximise its effectiveness, use a floating line and present the fly with a gentle cast to avoid spooking fish. Allow the fly to sit on the water's surface, mimicking a natural insect. Employ a slow, steady retrieve with occasional pauses to imitate the erratic movement of a struggling insect. This technique can trigger strikes from curious or opportunistic trout. In windy conditions, use a faster retrieve to simulate an insect being blown across the water, enticing aggressive takes.
Key Seasons - when is this
Bristol Hopper Trout Fly
most effective?
The Hares Ear Bristol Hopper is most effective during the spring and autumn months when trout are actively feeding. In spring, as the water warms, various hatches occur, making this fly ideal for mimicking emerging insects. Late April to June is prime, coinciding with mayfly and caddis hatches. Autumn, particularly September to October, is also excellent as trout prepare for winter, feeding aggressively. Overcast days with a slight breeze enhance its effectiveness, as the fly's movement mimics natural prey. Use it in rivers and still waters where insect activity is high.
How does the Turrall Hares Ear Bristol Hopper Trout Fly imitate a key stage in a fish's diet?
The Hares Ear Bristol Hopper is a versatile trout fishing fly that effectively imitates the nymph stage of various aquatic insects, particularly mayflies. This stage is crucial as nymphs are abundant and a staple in a trout's diet. The fly's design, with its mottled brown and gold hues, mimics the natural appearance of these nymphs, making it irresistible to fish.
During the emergence stage, nymphs rise to the water's surface to transform into adults, becoming vulnerable to predation. Trout target these emerging nymphs due to their abundance and ease of capture, making the Hares Ear Bristol Hopper an effective choice for anglers.
Hares Ear Bristol Hopper Trout Fly expertly tied
by Turrall for maximum performance.
The Turrall Hares Ear Bristol Hopper Trout Fly is expertly tied using high-quality materials to ensure maximum performance on the water. Crafted with precision, this fly features a realistic profile that mimics natural prey, enticing even the most cautious trout. The use of premium hare's ear dubbing provides a lifelike texture and colour, enhancing its effectiveness in various fishing conditions.
Turrall's skilled artisans meticulously assemble each fly, ensuring durability and reliability. This attention to detail makes the Bristol Hopper an essential addition to any angler's fly box, promising successful catches and memorable fishing experiences.
Turrall Hares Ear Bristol Hopper Trout Fly HP14
- 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.
