North Country Flies, or spider flies, are a time-tested method for catching trout, and CONDUCT.EDU.VN offers insights to master this technique. These soft hackle flies imitate emerging insects and provide a natural presentation that entices fish, increasing your chances of a successful outing. Dive into this comprehensive guide, and explore advanced techniques for fly presentation and discover resources that elevate your understanding of angling ethics.
1. Understanding North Country Spider Flies
North Country Spiders, also known as soft hackle flies, have a rich history of catching trout and grayling for over two centuries. Originating in the fast-flowing rivers of northern England, these flies are now effectively used worldwide in various aquatic environments, including freestone rivers, chalk streams, lakes, and lochs.
Contrary to their name, spider flies imitate aquatic insects, providing a general impression of emerging, stillborn, or drowned flies. As a subcategory of wet flies, spiders consist of a thread body and a sparse, mobile soft feather hackle (1 to 2 turns). This design produces a lifelike movement in the water, mimicking slender-bodied emerging flies and nymphs.
For beginners, spider flies are an excellent starting point due to their simplicity in tying and their effectiveness in imitating a wide range of flies.
- Simple to Tie: Spider flies require minimal materials and basic tying techniques.
- Effective Imitations: The general design mimics various aquatic insects.
2. Essential Spider Fly Patterns for Your Fly Box
With a seemingly endless variety of North Country Spiders, choosing the right patterns can be daunting. Here are some of my workhorse spider flies that imitate most insects encountered on the river throughout the year.
2.1. March Brown Spider
The March Brown Spider consistently catches trout and grayling throughout the year. It also works well as a daytime sea trout fly. This fly is a good general imitation of various hatching olive nymphs.
“Not having any March Brown Spiders in my fly box is akin to forgetting my fly rod”
My fly box always contains two March Brown Spider patterns:
2.1.1. Gold-Ribbed March Brown Spider
- Hook: Kamasan B170 #14 & 16
- Thread: Waxed orange UNI 8/0
- Body: Hare’s ear dubbing
- Rib: Medium gold wire
- Hackle: Brown partridge neck feather
This pattern is best fished early and late in the season when trout and grayling are feeding on ascending olive nymphs.
2.1.2. Pearl-Ribbed March Brown Spider
- Hook: Kamasan B170 #14 & 16
- Thread: Waxed orange UNI 8/0
- Body: Hare’s ear dubbing
- Rib: Pearl Mylar fine
- Hackle: Brown partridge neck feather
This pattern is effective as the weather warms and when trout and grayling focus on taking emerging flies.
2.2. Black Spider Patterns
A black spider pattern is a classic and simple fly for catching trout and grayling throughout the year. Despite its drab appearance, it’s versatile.
2.2.1. Black Magic Spider
- Hook: HENDS B354 #18 & 16
- Thread: Black UNI-Thread 8/0
- Rib: Uni Pearl Mylar (1/32)
- Hackle: Natural black hen
2.2.2. Black Hopper Spider
- Hook: Kamasan B170 size 14
- Thread: Black UNI-Thread 8/0
- Body: Black seal fur substitute
- Rib: Uni Pearl Mylar (1/32)
- Legs: Black pheasant tail
- Hackle: Natural black hen
Like the March Brown spider, both black flies will catch sea trout during the day.
2.3. Waterhen Bloa Spider (Pearl Butt)
- Hook: Kamasan B170 #14 &16
- Thread: Primrose silk
- Tag: Pearl Mylar (1/32)
- Body: Finely dubbed Mole fur
- Hackle: Waterhen undercover wing
In the surface layers, this straggly-bodied soft hackle fly is a great imitation of a member of the olive family struggling to hatch.
2.4. Partridge and Orange Spider
- Hook: HENDS B354 #14 &16
- Thread: Waxed Gossamer orange silk
- Hackle: Grey Pheasant neck feather
The Partridge & Orange is one of the best-known spider fly patterns that will catch both trout and grayling. It is considered an imitation for small stonefly nymphs.
2.5. Snipe and Purple Spider
- Hook: Kamasan B170 #14, 16 & 18
- Thread: Purple Gossamer silk
- Hackle: Snipe marginal covert feather
The Snipe & Purple is another classic spider pattern for trout and grayling fishing, which is a good imitation of Iron Blue nymphs and emerging duns.
2.6. Black and Peacock Spider
- Hook: HENDS B354 #14 &16
- Thread: Black Uni 8/0
- Body: Peacock herl
- Rib: Fine gold wire
- Hackle: Natural black cock
The black and peacock spider is a simple fly to tie, useful when there is a lack of fly life on the river.
3. Modern ‘Bling’ Spider Flies
The development of new fly-tying materials has inspired fly fishers to design and test new soft hackle flies. These “Bling Spiders” have proven irresistible to sea trout, grayling, and trout.
3.1. Black & Purple Grouse Spider
- Hook: Kamasan B170 #12 & 10
- Thread: Fluoro-orange
- Body: Holographic black tinsel
- Rib: Fine silver wire
- Thorax: Purple Hends Spectra dubbing code 411
- Hackle: Grouse neck
3.2. Red Bling Spider
- Hook: Kamasan B170 size 12 & 10
- Thread: Red UNI 8/0
- Body: Holographic red
- Rib: Fine silver wire
- Hackle: Grouse neck
- Cheeks: Split jungle cock
3.3. Grouse & Olive Bling Spider
- Hook: Kamasan B170 size 12 & 10
- Thread: Fluoro-green
- Body: Holographic chartreuse
- Thorax: Green Hends Spectra dubbing code 89
- Hackle: Grouse neck
4. Tying Your Own North Country Spider Patterns
4.1. Essential Tips for Tying Spider Patterns
- Hooks: Standard, lightweight fly hooks (e.g., #16 & #14 Kamasan B170 or Fulling Mill All-Purpose 31550) are suitable for tying spider flies. Classic spider hooks (e.g., #16 & #14 Partridge spider hook L3AS) are also a great choice. In the summer, fine wire hooks (e.g., #18 VARIVAS 2200BL) are beneficial on heavily fished rivers.
- Tying Thread: Pearsall’s Gossamer Silk thread is ideal, but any reasonable quality fly tying thread will work.
- Hackle Feathers: Start with small packs of loose feathers (i.e., hen, partridge, grouse) to tie plenty of spider flies. Then, add snipe, starling, and woodcock wings to your hackle material collection.
- Key Principle: Avoid overdressing the fly; keep them simple, slim, and mobile.
4.2. The Art of Sparse Hackles
Use 1 to 2 turns of a good quality soft hackle. Tie the hackle feather so the fibers splay out like the spokes of an umbrella. This allows the fly to catch even gentle currents and adds lifelike movement.
4.3. Body Dubbing Techniques
Keep the dubbing sparse to maintain a slim spider fly profile. Fine natural fur dubbings (e.g., mole, fox ear, hare’s mask) and fine synthetic dubbing are both excellent choices.
5. Selecting the Right Fly Fishing Equipment
5.1. Spider Fishing Rod
Use a 9ft #5 weight rod with a medium action for small to large rivers. Fly rods in the range of 8 to 10 ft and weights from #3 to #5 can also work. Avoid tip or fast action rods, as medium or softer action rods are better for presenting a short line.
5.2. Spider Fishing Reel
A small, lightweight reel matched to the fly line weight is recommended. Look for one with a smooth, easy-to-adjust drag system.
5.3. Fly Line for Spider Fishing
An Airflo SuperDri WF5 is a suitable spider fishing line. Choose a line with a long front taper to aid delicate fly presentation.
5.4. Leader & Tippet Setup
- Standard Three Spider Fly Cast: Use a 9ft monofilament knotless tapered leader cut down to 5ft at the butt. Add two 6” long droppers spaced 3ft apart using 3lb tippet.
- Two-Fly Cast: Cut the leader down to 7ft.
- Single Spider Fly: Use the 9ft leader as is.
Degrease the leader with Fullers Earth to help it sink. If the spiders are fishing too deep, add Mucilin grease to the butt section of the tapered leader to keep them closer to the surface film.
6. Where to Fish North Country Spiders
North Country Spiders were designed for the fast-flowing rivers of northern England but are now used worldwide on freestone rivers, chalk streams, lakes, and lochs.
Spider fishing is suited to the riffles and runs of rivers and streams, where there is sufficient current to impart movement into these soft-hackle flies, imitating ascending nymphs and emergers.
7. Spider Fishing Techniques for Trout and Grayling
7.1. The ‘Across and Down’ Method
This is the easiest way to fish a team of spiders for beginners.
- Position: Face downstream at 45 degrees.
- Cast: Cast across the flow and let the flow swing your flies down and around.
- Rod Angle: Hold the rod up at an angle (c.a. 30 degrees) to produce an arc of slacker line, which absorbs the impact of the take.
- Dangle: Let the flies dangle at the end of the swing for a few seconds.
- Induced Take: Slowly lift the rod tip to move the flies upriver, which can produce an induced take.
- Hook Set: If you feel a take, lift the rod to keep in contact with the fish.
- Repeat: Take a step downriver and repeat the process until you reach the end of the run.
7.2. Enhancing the ‘Across and Down’ Method with the Reach Cast
The Reach Cast lays the fly line on the water to allow the flies to dead-drift downriver.
Perform a modified overhead cast, where before the line lands on the water, you move the rod upstream and allow the line to run through the rings, so the flies don’t jerk back. At the end of the cast, the rod tip is pointing upstream. Move the rod-tip downriver at the same speed as the current to dead-drift the spider over the fish.
7.3. Upstream Spider Fishing
Fishing spiders upstream, as you would a nymph, is effective but challenging.
Select a fish-holding spot, cast a straight short line (10 to 15ft) into it, and raise your rod tip to pick up the slack line off the water as the spiders drift towards you. Look for a boil as the fish takes the spider just under the surface, or the fly line might stop or dart upstream.
Upstream spider fishing requires short drifts and many casts to cover all potential fish-holding spots, as you fish upriver.
8. Ethical Angling and Conservation
As anglers, it’s crucial to practice ethical angling to ensure the sustainability of fish populations and their habitats. This includes:
- Catch and Release: Handle fish carefully and release them quickly to minimize stress.
- Respecting Regulations: Adhere to local fishing regulations, including size and creel limits.
- Minimizing Impact: Avoid disturbing spawning areas and sensitive habitats.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and leave the area as you found it.
For more information on ethical angling practices, visit the Recreational Fishing Alliance at https://www.recreationalfishingalliance.org/ or the American Sportfishing Association at https://asafishing.org/.
9. Advanced Techniques and Fly Presentation
9.1. Understanding Water Types and Currents
Different water types and currents require varying fly presentation techniques. For example, in fast-moving riffles, a dead-drift presentation may be more effective, while in slower pools, an induced take can entice fish.
9.2. Matching the Hatch
Pay attention to the insects that are hatching on the water and choose spider flies that closely imitate them. This increases your chances of attracting fish that are actively feeding.
9.3. Experimenting with Different Retrieves
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different retrieves to see what works best. Try slow, steady retrieves, jerky retrieves, or even letting the fly swing naturally in the current.
10. Essential Fly-Fishing Knots for Spider Fishing
10.1. Improved Clinch Knot
The Improved Clinch Knot is a reliable knot for attaching your fly to the tippet. It’s easy to tie and provides a strong connection.
10.2. Surgeon’s Knot
The Surgeon’s Knot is used to create droppers for multi-fly rigs. It’s a simple and effective way to add flies to your leader.
10.3. Blood Knot
The Blood Knot is used to join two pieces of tippet or leader material of similar diameter. It creates a smooth and strong connection.
11. Further Reading on North Country Spiders
If you are interested in learning more about North Country Spiders, consider reading:
- The North Country Fly: Yorkshire’s Soft Hackle Tradition by Robert L. Smith.
- A Guide to North Country Flies and How To Tie Them: 140 Flies with Step-by-Step Photographs by Mike Harding.
12. Continuing Your Fly Fishing Education
Fly fishing is a lifelong pursuit, and there’s always more to learn. Here are some ways to continue your education:
- Join a Fly Fishing Club: Connect with other anglers and learn from their experiences.
- Attend Fly Fishing Seminars and Workshops: Gain valuable knowledge from experts in the field.
- Read Fly Fishing Magazines and Books: Stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and trends.
- Watch Fly Fishing Videos: Learn from visual demonstrations of various techniques.
13. Safety Considerations for Fly Fishing
Safety should always be a top priority when fly fishing. Here are some essential safety considerations:
- Wear Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers to stay warm and dry.
- Use Wading Gear: Wear wading boots with good traction and a wading belt for safety.
- Be Aware of Weather Conditions: Check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for changing weather.
- Carry a First-Aid Kit: Be prepared to handle minor injuries.
- Let Someone Know Your Plans: Inform someone of your fishing location and expected return time.
14. Conservation Efforts and Protecting Our Fisheries
As anglers, we have a responsibility to protect our fisheries for future generations. Here are some ways to get involved in conservation efforts:
- Support Conservation Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations dedicated to protecting fish habitats.
- Participate in Stream Cleanups: Help remove trash and debris from local waterways.
- Advocate for Responsible Fishing Regulations: Support regulations that protect fish populations.
- Practice Responsible Angling: Follow ethical angling practices to minimize your impact on the environment.
15. FAQs About North Country Spider Flies
Q1: What are North Country Spider Flies?
North Country Spider Flies, or soft hackle flies, originated in northern England and imitate aquatic insects.
Q2: Why are they called “spider” flies if they don’t imitate spiders?
The name “spider” refers to the sparse hackle that resembles spider legs in the water, creating a lifelike movement.
Q3: What fish species can I catch with North Country Spider Flies?
Trout, grayling, and even sea trout can be caught using these flies.
Q4: What is the best time of year to use North Country Spider Flies?
They can be effective year-round, but spring and fall are often the most productive seasons.
Q5: What size hook should I use for tying North Country Spider Flies?
Hook sizes #14 to #18 are commonly used, depending on the size of the insects you’re imitating.
Q6: How do I choose the right hackle feather for my spider fly?
Soft, webby feathers from birds like partridge, hen, snipe, and starling are ideal for creating lifelike movement.
Q7: What is the best way to present a North Country Spider Fly?
A dead-drift presentation or a slight induced take are often the most effective techniques.
Q8: Can I use North Country Spider Flies in stillwater environments like lakes?
Yes, spider flies can be effective in stillwater, especially when targeting fish feeding on emerging insects.
Q9: What is the advantage of using a multi-fly rig with North Country Spider Flies?
A multi-fly rig allows you to present different patterns at once, increasing your chances of finding what the fish are feeding on.
Q10: Where can I learn more about ethical angling practices?
CONDUCT.EDU.VN provides resources and guidelines on ethical angling, promoting responsible fishing practices. You can also visit the Recreational Fishing Alliance or the American Sportfishing Association.
16. Conclusion: Embrace the Art of Spider Fishing
Fly fishing with North Country Spiders is a rewarding experience that connects you to the rich history of angling while offering a versatile and effective technique for catching trout and grayling. By understanding the essential patterns, mastering the tying techniques, and practicing ethical angling, you can enhance your skills and contribute to the conservation of our fisheries.
Explore CONDUCT.EDU.VN for more information and guidance on ethical fishing practices. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, the world of spider fishing offers endless opportunities for learning, discovery, and enjoyment. Don’t forget to follow ethical guidelines while enjoying this captivating activity. For further inquiries, reach out to us at 100 Ethics Plaza, Guideline City, CA 90210, United States. You can also contact us via Whatsapp at +1 (707) 555-1234 or visit our website conduct.edu.vn.
