Dry FliesHarrop Ant
The Harrop Ant is an elegant terrestrial pattern designed by Rene Harrop that masterfully captures the distinctive silhouette of a flying ant. This sophisticated design features a dubbed butt section, moose body hair legs, duck quill wings, and a sparse hackle collar that allows the fly to sit properly in the surface film. The combination of natural materials creates a realistic profile that fools the most selective trout during ant falls.
Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
This Charlie Craven pattern from Charlie's Fly Box showcases Rene Harrop's refined approach to terrestrial imitations. The Harrop Ant stands apart from simpler ant patterns through its use of duck quill wings that accurately imitate the wings of a winged reproductive ant. The moose body hair legs provide the dark, segmented appearance of ant legs, while the blend of dubbing colors in the butt creates the subtle color variations seen in natural ants. The sparse hackle allows the body to ride in the film for a realistic presentation.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 100SP-BL, #12-18
Thread: Veevus 14/0, black
Butt: Superfine Dubbing (blend of rusty brown, mahogany, and amber)
Legs: Moose Body Hair
Wing: Duck Quill
Hackle: Rooster Cape, barred dark ginger or cree
Head: Superfine Dubbing, mahogany
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during summer and fall when ant activity peaks. Flying ant falls can occur from late June through October, with peak activity during warm, humid days.
Presentation
Fish with a dead drift along banks, under overhanging vegetation, and near fallen trees where ants naturally enter the water. Pay particular attention to foam lines where struggling ants accumulate.
When to Use
Select this pattern when trout are feeding on flying ants or when prospecting terrestrial water during ant season. Particularly deadly during ant falls when trout key exclusively on this food source.
Water Type
Designed for moving water, particularly slower pools, eddies, and bank water where ants naturally land. Effective on both freestone rivers and spring creeks during terrestrial season.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on a 9-12 foot leader tapering to 5X-6X tippet for delicate presentations. The subtle profile requires accurate casts that land softly near feeding fish.
Visibility & Floatation
The duck quill wings provide excellent visibility for the angler while maintaining a natural appearance. The sparse hackle and dubbed body allow the fly to ride low in the film, imitating a struggling ant.
