Mudeye Flyfishing for Trout

What is a mudeye

A mudeye is the larval stage of the dragonfly. Through summer they migrate up out of the weed towards the shore to crawl out and hatch, and that migration usually peaks in the last of the light and into dark. Trout know it, and they move into the shallows to intercept them.

The evening window

The best of it comes on still, warm summer evenings from dusk onward. As the light drops the fish lose their caution and feed hard right in against the banks and weed edges. Get into position while you can still see, work out your casting lanes, and be ready as the surface comes alive.

Fishing into the dark on the highland lakes is a special thing. It goes quiet, the birds settle, and then the water starts to move as the fish come on.

Flies and presentation

Fish a mudeye pattern as a wet fly, either just under the surface or right in the film where the migrating naturals are. A slow, steady retrieve with the odd pause is usually all it takes. Because you often can't see the fly, you fish by feel and sound, a splashy rise near your line, then the weight.

As the old saying goes, the tug is the drug. In the dark that pull comes out of nowhere and it's hard to beat.

Fishing safely after dark

Night fishing rewards preparation. Sort your gear in daylight, keep a torch handy but off the water, and know your footing before the light goes. As a guide I'll get you set in the right spot, teach you to time the strike by feel, and keep it safe so you can just enjoy the evening.