Fishing

Fly Fishing Techniques: Using the Dead Drift

Fly fishing is probably the best way to catch salmon, steelhead and trout, among other fish. There are many techniques for fly fishing, but the easiest to learn, thus the most common, is the dead drift. The dead drift technique is commonly used in small rivers, seams and fishing slots, and is done with nymphs. Its effectiveness is really high, especially when the water surface has very little to no activity. This article will shed light on the technique of dead drifting, as well as provide tips on how to execute it properly.

Dead drifting is best effective in fishing for steelhead and trout, and for fish in shallow water. The rationale for this is that nymphs that float freely on the water surface go along the river current, which is why trout steady below the surface, and wait for food to drift by them. To be successful in using this technique, you will need a strike indicator to help you detect strikes just below the surface. It will help you hit any movement below the surface. Choose light indicators which will not bother your casting, because they float comfortable despite a deep fly.

Best of all, make sure you can see your indicators under the surface of the water. You will first need to find a spot to dead drift in, casting upstream in your chosen water spot so that your fly can have time to sink before you get to your target water. Devise a drag free float for your line, so that your nymph looks as if it is free-floating. Relax and let the fly drift until it is below you, and then let your nymph rise a little so that it looks as if it is coming up. This technique will allow it to be followed and hit. It takes a lot of practice, so you may need to lift the nymph for a second trial.