NEBRASKAland Magazine is dedicated to outstanding photography and informative writing with an engaging mix of articles and photos highlighting Nebraska’s outdoor activities, parklands, wildlife, history and people.
Issue link: http://mag.outdoornebraska.gov/i/946863
14 NEBRASKAland • MARCH 2018 By Ryan Sparks Dealing with the wind is one of the biggest challenges in fly fishing. Large lakes frequently deliver powerful gales that make casting difficult if not impossible, and Nebraska's spring wind causes fly anglers to check the forecast compulsively, waiting for a break when they can fish again. However, one technique turns the wind to the angler's advantage – the float 'n' fly. I serendipitously discovered the float 'n' fly out of necessity. The farm pond I fished growing up sits on a high hill. Consequently, it's windy more days than not. I stumbled into the float 'n' fly by combining small crappie jigs with bobbers (sometimes called indicators) traditionally used for nymphing trout. After catching numerous crappie, bluegill and largemouth bass, I realized how well the system works. After doing some research, I found out I wasn't the first one to use the technique. In fact, Tennessee anglers invented the rig years before to catch lethargic winter bass. The float 'n' fly consists of a jig style fly attached below a lightweight bobber. The best aspect of the rig is its minimalism. Simply adjust the depth of your jig below the bobber and lob the rig into the water. At that point, the wind moves the float 'n' fly across the water and the chop imparts action to the fly. For fly-fishing, I use 1/16th and 1/32nd-ounce jig heads tied with craft fur, buck tail or marabou. These materials undulate and breathe in the water, adding even more movement. I have also used the rig with spinning gear, but upsize the jig to a 1/8th ounce. Using light line, like 3- to 5-pound test, lets the jig move freely as it bounces under the bobber. Different size floats affect how your fly rides in the water. Large floats create a tight up and down jigging, while small bobbers give the fly a wide arching path. The jig head keeps the hook point up, suspending the fly in front of fish while avoiding snags on the bottom. Keep a close eye on the bobber; sometimes fish will take it from below and lift the fly. This lift causes the bobber to lay over on its side or spin, but it won't be pulled under. If the bobber does anything but bounce in the chop, set the hook. The float 'n' fly is also an excellent option when the weather turns cold. Winter temperatures make fish sluggish, and require a presentation for inactive, suspended fish. The float 'n' fly does just this, offering the bait in a slow, subtle manner that even slothful fish can't resist. On still days, fish the rig by casting it out and working it back with a series of short twitches. Pop the rod five or six times and then let the fly sit for a few seconds. This presentation mimics the dying minnows that are common in fall and winter. The float 'n' fly is a simple and effective technique for a number of species, yet many fly anglers are unaware of it and head home when the wind picks up. While it is laughably simple, it will surprise you with its effectiveness and extend your fishing season to include windy and cold days. Try it the next time the wind is giving you fits. The float 'n' fly will turn your frustration into excitement. ■ Float 'n' Fly PHOTO BY RYAN SPARKS The float 'n' fly consists of a jig style fly attached below a lightweight bobber.