Oct 27 2007
Part 2 Damsel Flies
Damsel flies, these are the ladies of the insect world. They are very dainty and beautiful. They are also a very important part of the trout diet in the lakes of the north west. They are alot like the Dragon, yet are very different.
Order- Odonata
Suborder- Zygoptera
Family- Coenagrionidae
Colors: Browns to Greens.
Size: 15mm-30mm
Once again, these insects live in the water as a nymph. They do not live as long in the water as the Dragon does, they usually have a 1 year life cycle with the odd ones having a 2 year cycle in warmer climates.
These insects hide in the vegetation for cover and are like a chameleon, as they can change their color patterns to match their surroundings. Once again like the Dragon, they are ambush hunters but do not eat the same size of prey that the Dragon does. The Damsel fly moves differently than the Dragon, the Damsel swims thru the water a little like a minnow. It is aided by the use of Its gills that are located at the end of their slender bodies.
The Damsel flies migrate in Mass toward shore to start their emergence. The Trout feed on them at this time and target them with vigor.
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As the Trout start to target them you should concentrate on fishing in or near the weeds. I have had limited success when fishing the adult patterns, but the nymph is what you will have the best luck with.
Rick Passek
“The FlyFish Fanatic”
