Dry FliesAdult Blue Damsel
The Adult Blue Damsel is a semi-realistic yet quick-to-tie pattern that imitates adult blue damselflies. Featuring blue-dyed grizzle hackle for the body and hackle, paired with dun hackle tip wings, it presents a convincing silhouette when damselflies are on the water. An effective stillwater pattern that triggers aggressive surface takes.
Summer
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
This pattern from Barry Ord Clarke represents one of his simpler designs that proves highly effective during damselfly season. The blue-dyed grizzle hackle comes from Whiting and is called Kingfisher blue—it provides the perfect blue coloration with subtle barring. The pattern works exceptionally well in Tasmania and other stillwaters where trout actively feed on adult damselflies. Can be fished static or with subtle movement to imitate a damsel touching down on the surface.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Mustad R30, size #12
Thread: Black 6/0
Body: Blue dyed grizzle hackle, wrapped
Wings: 2 medium dun hackle tips
Thorax: Blue sparkle yarn
Head: Blue sparkle yarn
Hackle: Blue dyed grizzle hackle (Whiting Kingfisher blue)
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during summer months from June through August when adult damselflies are active. Best fishing occurs during warm, calm days when damselflies are mating and laying eggs.
Presentation
Cast near weed beds and shoreline structure where damselflies congregate. Let the fly sit motionless or add occasional subtle twitches to imitate a damsel landing on the water. Dapping techniques can be particularly effective.
When to Use
Fish this pattern when you observe blue damselflies flying over the water or mating along shorelines. Trout become highly selective during damsel activity and will often ignore other patterns.
Water Type
Designed specifically for stillwater—lakes, ponds, and reservoirs with healthy damselfly populations. Focus on areas near emergent vegetation, lily pads, and reed beds.
Rigging Suggestions
Use long leaders of 12–15 feet tapered to 5X or 6X for wary stillwater trout. A floating line with a long leader allows for delicate presentations. Apply floatant to wings and hackle.
Visibility & Floatation
Rides in the surface film with a realistic damselfly profile. The blue coloration stands out against the water while the dun wings provide good visibility to the angler. The sparkle yarn thorax adds subtle attraction.
