StreamersDahlberg Diver
The Dahlberg Diver is Larry Dahlberg's revolutionary topwater fly that changed the game for warmwater fly fishing. This iconic pattern features a sculpted deer hair head with a distinctive diving collar that creates an irresistible popping and diving action when stripped. The marabou tail and grizzly hackle accents provide lifelike movement while the weed guard allows fishing through heavy cover where predatory fish lurk.
Year Round
Advanced
Bass, Pike, Muskie, Trout
Overview
This Charlie Craven pattern from Charlie's Fly Box showcases one of the most influential bass fly designs ever created. The Dahlberg Diver's genius lies in its sculpted deer hair head with a cupped face and diving collar that create unique surface disturbance. When stripped, the fly dives below the surface, then floats back up during the pause, mimicking a wounded baitfish or fleeing frog. The pattern requires mastering deer hair spinning and sculpting techniques, making it a challenging but rewarding tie for advanced tyers.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco TMC 8089 or TMC 811S, #2-6
Thread: Gel Spun (white), 3/0 Monocord, Semperfli Nano Silk 200 Denier
Tail: Marabou, white, with Large Grizzly Hackles or Polar Fibers
Flash: Flashabou, pearl and silver
Collar/Head: Deer Hair, white (secondary color optional)
Weed Guard: Monofilament, 16-20 lb (optional)
Fishing Tips
Season
Year-round effectiveness wherever warmwater predators feed on surface prey. Peak performance occurs during warmer months when bass and pike are actively hunting topwater.
Presentation
Use a strip-pause retrieve, varying the intensity to create different actions. Short, sharp strips create a popping action while longer pulls cause the fly to dive and wobble enticingly.
When to Use
Select this pattern for bass in lily pads, weed edges, and around structure. Equally effective for pike and muskie in shallow bays. The weed guard option allows fishing through vegetation without constant snagging.
Water Type
Designed for stillwater and slow-moving rivers. Most effective around structure, weed edges, docks, and anywhere predators ambush prey from cover.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on a 7-9 weight rod with a bass taper floating line for optimal casting and line management. Use 20-30 lb fluorocarbon leader for abrasion resistance and shock absorption from explosive strikes.
Visibility & Floatation
The white deer hair head provides excellent visibility for the angler and maximum surface disturbance for attracting fish. The buoyant deer hair construction allows the fly to float high and dive dramatically on the strip.
