Dry FliesCow Killer Ant
The Cow Killer Ant is a terrestrial pattern used to imitate a large ant species. It is highly effective due to its vivid red color and realistic shape, which can trigger aggressive responses from fish, especially during terrestrial seasons.
Summer
Intermediate
Trout, Bass
Overview
Constructed from two foam cylinders (black and red), rubber legs, and sometimes a dubbed thorax, this fly imitates a terrestrial ant with high floatation and visibility. The segmented foam bodies are super durable for aggressive strikes.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 100, size #12–#16
Thread: Red UTC 70 denier
Body: Red dubbing
Wing: White poly yarn
Legs: Black rubber legs
Shell: Solarez Bone Dry UV resin
Fishing Tips
Season
The Cow Killer Ant is most effective in the summer when ants are active and often fall into the water.
Presentation
This is a dry fly, so use standard dry fly presentations such as upstream and across. It can also be effective when drifted along the bank or under overhanging trees where ants may fall into the water.
When to Use
Use the Cow Killer Ant during the warmer months, especially in the height of summer when terrestrial insects like ants are active and plentiful.
Water Type
This fly is effective in both stillwater and moving water. It can be especially effective in small streams with overhanging foliage.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish this fly on a standard dry fly leader, with a 5X or 6X tippet depending on the size of the fly and clarity of the water.
Visibility & Floatation
This fly is relatively easy to see due to its size and the white poly yarn wing. It floats well due to the dry dubbing body and the UV resin shell, which adds durability and shine, making it more visible to fish.
