The Natural Daddy Long Legs Trout Fly is a classic terrestrial pattern, renowned for its effectiveness in enticing trout, especially during late summer and autumn. Originating from the UK, this fly mimics the crane fly, commonly known as the daddy long legs, which is a staple in a trout's diet during these months. Its design features long, slender legs crafted from knotted pheasant tail fibers, a buoyant deer hair body, and a hackle that ensures it sits enticingly on the water's surface.
This fly's realistic movement and silhouette make it irresistible to trout, particularly in still waters and slow-moving streams. Anglers appreciate its versatility and reliability, often using it in a variety of conditions to great success. The Natural Daddy Long Legs is a must-have in any fly box, celebrated for its ability to attract even the most discerning fish..
Natural / Original Daddy Long Legs Trout Fishing Fly
- Fishing Techniques.
The Natural Daddy Long Legs fly is best used during late summer and autumn when crane flies are abundant. To maximise effectiveness, fish it on a floating line with a long leader to ensure a delicate presentation. Cast near banks, overhanging vegetation, or areas with visible surface activity. Use a dead-drift technique to mimic a struggling insect, allowing the fly to float naturally with the current. Alternatively, employ a slow, twitchy retrieve to imitate a live insect's movement, enticing trout to strike. Adjust your tactics based on water conditions and fish behaviour for optimal results.
Key Seasons - when is this
Daddy Long Leg Trout Fly
most effective?
The Natural Daddy Long Legs fly is most effective during late summer to early autumn, particularly from August to October. This period coincides with the terrestrial insect hatch when crane flies, commonly known as daddy long legs, are abundant. During these months, trout are more likely to feed on the surface, making this fly an excellent choice.
Ideal conditions include warm, overcast days with a gentle breeze, which helps to blow these insects onto the water, enticing trout to rise. Use this fly in still waters or slow-moving rivers where trout are actively feeding on surface insects.
How does the Turrall Natural / Original Daddy Long Legs Trout Fly imitate a key stage in a fish's diet?
The Natural Daddy Long Legs fly imitates the crane fly, particularly during its adult stage when it is most vulnerable. This fly is designed to mimic the long, slender legs and delicate body of the crane fly, which often falls onto the water's surface. During late summer and early autumn, these insects are abundant, making them a prime target for trout. Fish are drawn to the Daddy Long Legs due to its realistic movement and appearance, which signals an easy meal. The fly's buoyancy and lifelike silhouette make it an effective choice for anglers seeking to entice surface-feeding trout.
Natural / Original Daddy Long Legs Trout Fly expertly tied
by Turrall for maximum performance.
The Turrall Natural Daddy Long Legs Trout Fly is expertly tied using high-quality materials to ensure maximum performance on the water. Each fly features a realistic profile, meticulously crafted with durable, lifelike fibres that mimic the natural movement of a real daddy long legs. The use of premium hooks and materials ensures longevity and effectiveness, making it a must-have in any angler's tackle box.
Designed for UK waters, this fly is highly effective in attracting trout, thanks to its authentic appearance and superior craftsmanship. Turrall's attention to detail guarantees a fly that not only looks realistic but also performs exceptionally well, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Turrall Natural / Original Daddy Long Legs Trout Fly DL04
- Turrall Premium Award-Winning Flies – The Best in Fly Fishing
England is the birthplace of fly fishing, and Turrall & Co. Ltd. is proud to be its longest-established company of professional fly dressers, crafting premium flies since the mid-nineteenth century. Over the years, Turrall has earned prestigious recognition from The Sunday Times, Country Living Magazine, and EFTTEX – the leading European Fishing Tackle Trade Association.
Every Turrall fly is the result of traditional craftsmanship fused with modern innovation, delivering consistent, high-performance results on the water. Turrall use only the finest materials, starting with high carbon steel hooks—needle-ground, surgically sharp, and double-coated for durability. Matched with world-class feathers and furs, including
Metz Genetic Hackles where appropriate, these hand-tied patterns are trusted by fly anglers worldwide.
