mysis shrimp tied by Barry Ord Clarke

Mysis shrimp fly

A quick and simple, semi realistic pattern to imitate the Mysis shrimp. Ranging from 0.5 to 25 mm long with a slender transparent body. Inspite its small size the Mysis is a very important food item in both lakes and salt water. Heres a few good techniques for getting it right!

Mysis shrimp fly pattern

  • Hook: Partridge_Sprite S2100 # 14-16
  • Tying thread: Wisp 8/0 White
  • Body: Ultra Lace 1 mm clear & Pearl Krystal flash
  • Eyes: Plastic nymph eyes black
  • Legs: Glister dubbing pearl
  • Shell back: UV resin

How to tie mysis shrimp fly

What is a Mysis shrimp?

Mysis shrimp are small, freshwater crustaceans that are a favorite food source for many species of trout. They are typically found in cold, clear waters and are most abundant in deep, oligotrophic lakes. These shrimp are an important part of the food chain and are often the primary food source for larger predatory fish.

Mysis shrimp are known for their translucent bodies and pink or orange coloring. They have a hinged shell that allows them to swim and move around in the water. When these shrimp die, they sink to the bottom of the lake or river, where they become a valuable food source for bottom-feeding fish.

Why are Mysis shrimp important for fly fishing?

Mysis shrimp are an important food source for trout and other freshwater fish, making them a popular target for fly fishermen. Trout that feed on Mysis shrimp tend to grow larger and put up a stronger fight, making them more exciting to catch.

Mysis shrimp are also a versatile fly pattern that can be used in a variety of fishing situations. Whether you are fishing in a lake, river, or stream, a Mysis shrimp fly can be an effective way to catch fish.

How to fish with Mysis shrimp

Fishing with Mysis shrimp is relatively easy, but there are a few tips and tricks that can help you catch more fish. Here are some things to keep in mind when fishing with Mysis shrimp:

  • Use the right gear: Mysis shrimp are typically found in deep water, so you will need a sinking line or weighted fly to get your fly down to the fish. A 5-6 weight rod is ideal for most situations, but you may need a heavier rod if you are fishing in a larger lake or river.
  • Use the right retrieve: When fishing with Mysis shrimp, it is important to imitate the natural movement of the shrimp. This means using short, jerky retrieves that mimic the swimming motion of the shrimp.
  • Vary your retrieve speed: Mysis shrimp swim at different speeds depending on the water temperature and other factors. To imitate this, try varying your retrieve speed until you find what works best.
  • Fish near the bottom: Mysis shrimp are bottom-dwellers, so you will need to fish near the bottom to catch fish. This means using a sinking line or weighted fly and keeping your fly close to the bottom.
  • Look for structure: Trout tend to congregate around structure, such as weed beds, rocks, and drop-offs. Look for these features when fishing with Mysis shrimp.

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