Panfish flies are simple and capable of catching numerous other species. The flies are divided by surface and subsurface versions. Panfish are opportunistic and the fly choice is not a critical element of the fishing experience. Simple poppers and panfish dry flies are typically adequate but the occasional small nymph or streamer helps to increase catch rates. Scroll down to read about our favorite color combos and fly choices.
Panfish Poppers
Panfish are typically located in the same waters as bass and a small popper works for both species. Small panfish poppers in red, white or green with a marabou or hackle tail are especially effective. Cast the bug against log jams and weed beds for an exciting…show more content… Foam grasshopper patterns are equally effective for trout and something like a Chernobyl Ant will keep busy landing fish all day long. Yellow, white, green and black are all great colors for catching the fish. We have also found success with pink and yellow panfish flies. Foam core bodies are easy to work with and foam strips are easily wound around the hook for a buoyant fly. Numerous foam attractors and hopper patterns are available to do the job. Tying Panfish Flies
If you follow our approach, your box will be full in no time. Because the fish are not picky, we take all of the pheasant tails, hare's ears, lightening bugs and other small beadhead nymphs that we have tied poorly and throw them in the box. The flies may be a bit sloppy for our trout box but they suit the panfish just fine.
Now tie a half dozen small poppers and add a general selection of hoppers and dry flies using the same approach for the nymphs. Now you are not wondering what to do with your stash of ugly proportioned flies and they are put to good use. Many of our first attempts at different patterns find a comfortable home in the panfish box.
