Description
The first stage in the life cycle of a caddis fly is the larva. Found in both still and moving waters, these insects are a constant and vital food source for fish. Depending on the species, caddis larvae are either case-builders, net-spinners, or free-living.
Case-building larvae construct protective homes from sand, stones, or plant material. As they grow and move between cases, they become highly vulnerable. Net-building larvae use silk to create food-catching structures, while free-living larvae move openly across the bottom.
Most often, you will find these larvae on the bottom; they only accidentally drift downstream in moving water or when searching for new feeding grounds. Those living in still water move slowly across the lake bed. To be successful, it is necessary to fish your imitations as close to the bottom as possible. Many seasoned anglers consider a realistic caddis larva imitation to be among the best, if not the best, trout flies available.
The Technical Staple – J:son Caddis Larva 4 Olive Brown (#12) The J:son Caddis Larva 4 in Olive Brown is a masterfully crafted imitation, tied on a size #12 hook to match the vast array of smaller caddis larvae found in diverse aquatic habitats. This color and size combination is particularly effective when fishing in clear water or in streams where the fish are more accustomed to smaller food items. The Olive Brown shade offers a muted, natural realism that mimics the organic debris and substrate where these larvae live.
With J:son’s hallmark anatomical realism, this fly features a perfectly curved, segmented body and a realistic front section. Its #12 profile provides a non-threatening silhouette that can fool even the most cautious trout and grayling. For the best results, fish this larva deep and slow, right along the riverbed. Whether you’re using it as a dropper in a duo-rig or as a single nymph in technical water, the #12 Olive Brown Caddis Larva is a highly reliable pattern that delivers year-round success.