Blue Wing Olive Hackled Emerger – BWO Klinkhammer Dry Fly

The Blue Wing Olive Hackled Emerger is a Klinkhammer-style pattern designed to imitate mayflies struggling to emerge through the surface film. Its suspended profile presents trout with a vulnerable insect that is often an easy feeding opportunity, particularly when fish are selectively feeding on emerging mayflies.

Description

This is our Blue Wing Olive (BWO) version of the highly effective Klinkhammer-style emerger. The pattern is designed to ride with part of the fly above the water and the body suspended below the surface.

This half-above, half-below presentation creates the appearance of an insect trapped during emergence. It is a particularly effective profile when trout are feeding on emerging mayflies rather than fully developed adult duns.

The hackled profile provides a visible target for the angler while the submerged portion of the fly imitates an insect struggling to complete its emergence.

Although the original listing references Sulfur hatches, this particular version is tied in a Blue Wing Olive color scheme to imitate BWO mayflies.

How to Fish It

Fish this pattern as an emerger in the surface film when trout are feeding just below the surface or selectively taking emerging mayflies.

• During BWO hatches: Present it on a natural dead drift through feeding lanes where trout are taking emerging Blue Wing Olives.

• During difficult hatches: Use it when trout are refusing fully emerged dry flies but continue feeding near the surface.

• Surface-film presentation: Allow the fly to ride naturally with its body suspended below the water.

• Target water: Concentrate on slower current seams, pool tailouts, and areas where trout are rising consistently.

Details

• Pattern: Blue Wing Olive Hackled Emerger

• Style: Klinkhammer-style Mayfly Emerger

• Imitation: Blue Wing Olive mayfly

• Sizes: #14 through #18

• Presentation: Suspended emerger in the surface film

Capt. Ken’s Guide Tips

When trout are rising but refusing your standard BWO dry flies, consider changing to an emerger. Many times, trout are feeding on insects before they have completely reached the surface. This is especially common during heavy hatches when fish have plenty of naturals to choose from.

I like fishing this style of fly on a drag-free drift through the same feeding lanes where trout are taking duns. Don't overlook the softer water and edges of current seams, where selective trout often feed.

Why Choose Capt. Ken’s Custom Flies?

Capt. Ken’s Custom Flies offers a carefully selected collection of fishing flies chosen for their effectiveness on the water. Our selection includes innovative local patterns and proven standards, drawing on the experience of professional fly fishing guides who pursue game fish in both freshwater and saltwater.

Since 2000, our focus has been on providing anglers with effective, quality fishing flies selected through real-world fishing experience.