Hoppers & Crickets
Best Hopper & Cricket Flies for Trout
Best time: Summer through early fall
Water: Rivers, banks, undercut edges, and grassy areas
Size: Typically 6–14
Shop by Hatch & Conditions
Fish large terrestrial patterns tight to banks and structure, especially on windy days when insects are blown into the water.
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Chernobyl Ant
$1.19Original priceOriginal price $1.19 - Original price $1.19Original price$1.19 - $1.19Current price $1.19Originally designed to catch Cutthroat Trout in Wyoming. The Chernobyl was quick to launch into legendary status. Now used all over for all game s...
View full details$1.19Original priceOriginal price $1.19 - Original price $1.19Original price$1.19 - $1.19Current price $1.19Value must be grater than or equal to 1.
How to Fish Hopper & Cricket Patterns
Hopper and cricket patterns are highly effective during summer and early fall when terrestrial insects are active along riverbanks. Trout often key on these larger food sources, especially on windy days.
- Fish tight to banks, undercut edges, and grassy areas
- Use a dead drift or slight twitch to imitate struggling insects
- Cover water—trout will move to eat large terrestrials
When to Fish Terrestrial Flies
Terrestrial fishing is most productive during warm months when insects are abundant near the water.
- Best from mid-summer through early fall
- Windy afternoons often produce the most activity
- Effective even when no hatch is present
Fly Selection Tips for Hoppers & Crickets
Trout are less selective when feeding on terrestrials, making these patterns a great option for covering water and finding fish.
- Use larger flies (sizes 6–14) for visibility and attraction
- Foam patterns provide better floatation and durability
- Ant and beetle patterns can be effective when fish are refusing larger flies
Terrestrial Fly Quality & Construction
- Hooks: Chemically sharpened for strong hook sets
- Materials: Durable foam, rubber legs, and buoyant bodies for long-lasting performance
- Profiles: Designed to imitate large terrestrial insects
- Tested: Proven effective on rivers where bank-side feeding is common