Diving Caddis

Few moments in fly fishing are as exciting as a caddis hatch, and few patterns imitate the egg laying female better than the Diving Caddis. Inspired by Gary LaFontaine's groundbreaking research, this fly represents the female caddis as she dives beneath the surface to deposit her eggs while carrying a shimmering bubble of trapped air. Trout key in on this vulnerable stage, often feeding just below the surface with explosive confidence.

Unlike a traditional dry fly, the Diving Caddis is designed to fish just below or within the surface film. The combination of natural materials and synthetic fibers creates the illusion of an air bubble, making the fly come alive as it swings, rises, or drifts through the current. It is one of the most effective patterns to fish during and immediately after a caddis hatch.

Whether you're targeting wild brown trout in the Driftless Area, western rivers, or productive tailwaters, the Diving Caddis is a pattern that consistently fools selective trout feeding on emerging and egg laying adults.

Available in Brown, Tan, Olive, and Bright Green in sizes 14, 16, and 18, these color options allow you to match the most common caddis species found on streams throughout North America.

Features

• Colors: Brown, Tan, Olive, Bright Green

• Sizes: 14, 16, and 18

• Realistic imitation of an egg laying female caddis

• Represents the vulnerable diving stage of the caddis life cycle

• Deadly during caddis hatches from spring through fall

• Fishes just below or within the surface film

• Targets Brown, Rainbow, Brook, and Cutthroat Trout

  
  

First Watch Fly Co. Pro Tip: Cast upstream with a dead drift, then allow the fly to swing across the current at the end of the drift. As the fly begins to rise toward the surface, add a slight twitch or short strip to imitate a diving or ascending caddis. Many of the most aggressive strikes occur during the swing and lift.

At First Watch Fly Co., every fly is selected because it catches fish, not because it catches anglers.