Dry FliesKiller Bee
The Killer Bee is a realistic foam bee pattern designed to imitate bees and wasps that occasionally fall onto the water. The yellow foam body with black Lifeflex ribbing creates the distinctive banded appearance of a bee, while the white EP wing and grizzly hackle provide floatation and visibility. This terrestrial pattern can trigger explosive strikes.
Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
The Killer Bee was developed at Blue Ribbon Flies to match the bees and wasps that become available to trout during summer and fall. While not as common as ants or beetles, bees represent a high-calorie meal that trout will readily take when available. The foam construction provides excellent floatation for prospecting likely holding water.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Umpqua U204, #12
Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed Thread, 8/0, black
Body: Fly Foam, 2mm, yellow
Rib: Lifeflex, black
Wing: EP Sculpt-A-Fly Fibers, white
Hackle: Grizzly dry fly hackle
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective from June through October when bees are active near water. Peak performance during warm, still days when bee activity is highest.
Presentation
Cast near structure, overhanging vegetation, or anywhere bees might naturally fall onto the water. A slight twitch can trigger strikes from curious fish. Prospect likely holding water.
When to Use
Best as a searching pattern when no hatch is present, or when you observe bees or wasps near the water. The distinctive silhouette can trigger opportunistic feeding.
Water Type
Effective on both moving water and stillwater. Works well along meadow streams, near wildflower fields, and anywhere flowering plants attract bees.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 9-12 foot leader with 4X-5X tippet. The foam provides excellent floatation and can support a small dropper nymph. Use heavier tippet to handle explosive strikes.
Visibility & Floatation
Excellent floatation from foam construction. Yellow and black coloration is highly visible to both fish and angler. The pattern floats all day without waterlogging.
