Wet flies
Used at the right time, you will be surprised by the catchiness of our wet flies
Wet flies are fished below the surface of the water but are usually tied without any weight and therefore do not sink as quickly or deeply as nymphs. Rather, they are designed to work in the free water column, simulating the rise of the insect as it hatches or a small fleeing fish. During the drift, the wet flies can also be further animated by light tugs on the fly line. These movements stimulate the trout's hunting instinct and often tempts them to get thy fly. Our wet fly patterns feature very soft and streamlined hackles and feathers that are perfect for this purpose. Fishing with this type of artificial fly was very popular in the past but is unfortunately often unjustly underestimated nowadays. Used at the right time, you can have a great time on the water and be amazed at how many fish you can catch in a short time.
WET FLIES – THE UNDERRATED ROYAL DISCIPLINE BENEATH THE SURFACE
Wet flies have long been a staple of fly fishing. Unlike dry flies, they are fished below the water’s surface and are typically tied without weight. This allows them to work freely in the water column, imitating emerging insects or fleeing baitfish. It’s this lifelike movement that often makes them unbeatable in the right conditions.
Delicate action underwater
Quality wet flies are characterized by soft hackles and a slim, streamlined body. In the current, their fibers begin to pulse, and the fly seems to “breathe” – a motion that trout, grayling, and perch find irresistible. During the drift, subtle twitches on the line can add extra triggers. These little bursts of movement often provoke reaction strikes, especially when fish are hunting mid-water.
In this category, you’ll find a wide range of patterns and styles: delicate soft hackles and spiders for picky fish, classic winged wets for stronger currents, or minimalist emerger variants for tricky surface phases. Unweighted flies swim higher and more naturally, while lightly weighted patterns – for example with discreet lead wire – add depth without killing the fly’s action. This lets you target exactly the feeding zone depending on water level, temperature, and clarity.
The art of the wet fly swing
One technique closely associated with wet fly fishing is the Wet Fly Swing. Here, you cast downstream and across, allowing the fly to “swing” through the current under tension in a graceful arc, finishing the drift close to the bank. Mends let you control speed and depth; a slight pause or gentle strip at the end of the swing often triggers a take. The swing works beautifully in riffles, runs, and smooth glides – anywhere fish patrol edges or intercept emerging insects.
Seasonal tips & fly selection
Wet flies are particularly effective in spring and early summer when insects are hatching and fish are feeding higher in the water column. But they also shine on mild autumn days, in lightly colored water, or when the current picks up a bit. In cold, clear conditions, it pays to fish deeper – for example by adding a heavier nymph in front and trailing the wet fly behind as an enticing follow-up.
We offer carefully tied wet flies made with selected feathers and harmonious proportions – designed for natural silhouettes and lifelike movement. Try different sizes and colors, mix them to suit the situation, and present them with finesse. When used correctly, wet flies can deliver magical moments where everything clicks – and you catch surprising numbers of fish in a short time.
