Dry FliesCinnamon Flying Ant

The Cinnamon Flying Ant is a highly effective terrestrial pattern that imitates a swarming flying ant. Its cinnamon color makes it stand out, enticing trout to rise even when there's no hatch. This pattern is especially useful during late summer and early fall when ants are most active.

Season
Summer, Fall
Difficulty
Beginner
Target Species
Trout
Cinnamon Flying Ant - Image source: Orvis
Image source: Orvis

Overview

The Cinnamon Flying Ant is a straightforward pattern to tie, making it accessible for beginners. The key to this fly's effectiveness is its simplicity - the cinnamon body and white Antron wing are all you need for a convincing ant silhouette.

Pattern Characteristics

Beginner Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Summer
Fall
Imitates: Ants

Materials

Hook: Standard dry-fly hook (here, a Dai-Riki 305), size 18
Thread: 8/0 or 70 Denier, burnt orange
Body: Orange cylindrical soft foam, size small
Wing: White polypropylene yarn
Legs: Brown hackle, trimmed on the bottom

Fishing Tips

Season

Late Summer and Early Fall

Presentation

Cast near grassy banks or overhanging vegetation where ants are likely to fall into the water.

When to Use

Use this fly when ants are most active, especially during a swarm. Even without an ant hatch, this fly can entice a strike due to its unique color and silhouette.

Water Type

Effective on both stillwater and moving water.

Rigging Suggestions

Consider using a fine tippet to ensure a natural presentation.

Visibility & Floatation

The white Antron wing makes this fly easy to spot on the water, and the palmered grizzly hackle helps it to float.