Articulated And Underestimated: Fly Fishing For Large Trout And Bass

We all know and see big nasty articulated streamers in the fly shops and online thinking would a trout really eat that thing? Isn’t it too big? In most cases yes, a lot of big crazy streamers are overkill but making sure you are equipped with a solid selection of four to six-inch-long articulated streamers can be the difference of finding that trophy and blowing it. Big fish eat big meals so don’t be shy to serve them something aggressive. Remember that persistence and patience are important here, the payoff is quite large and it won’t ever be easy. The first part of fishing these flies includes understanding and making sure your knots are solid. Most big fish are blown by crappy knots, but a close second is, unfortunately, the crappy net man. Large articulated streamers should be tied using a cinch loop or anything close to a saltwater knot. This will ensure that the action and maneuverability of the fly are smooth and fluid which will prevent any ring ups from the bottom hook.

Learn how to fish large articulated streamers here.

Living in Colorado, we have an abundant array of opportunities to entice large fish with articulated streamers on a year-round basis. Though some waters may be more technical than others, it is important to use a relatively large tippet given that the weight of the flies will heavily increase once they’ve absorbed water. Tippets ranging from 2x to as heavy as 18 pounds are important to keep near your large streamers. It may seem like overkill but no one likes losing an $8.00 fly to a bush either.

“I suggest you think out of the box, go against the grain, and make sure your infantry of articulated streamers is ready to a take a beating."

Rods such as 6 or 7 weights are best given the weight of the flies especially after water is absorbed. Purchasing a streamer specific line can also provide a large amount of support when it comes to casting. Streamer tapered lines are designed with an extremely heavy weight forward shape making it easier to cast large flies while still focusing on presentation. Equipping yourself with a diverse selection of articulated streamers ranging from baitfish to leeches, to sculpins is vital when it comes to enticing the fish of your life. To all the anglers on the water in search of their trophy this year, I suggest you think out of the box, go against the grain, and make sure your infantry of articulated streamers is ready to a take a beating.