Adams Dry Fly

The Adams Dry Fly is one of the most famous, if not the most famous, dry flies. It is effective and easy to fish. The Adams is designed to imitate the adult stage of a wide range of waterborne insects, including mayflies, midges, and caddis.

This pattern was created in Michigan by Leonard Halladay in 1922. He created the fly for his friend Charles Adams—hence the name Adams.

The Parachute Adams is the sibling of the Adams Dry Fly. The Parachute Adams features a ‘parachute’ of white dubbing above the fly to make it easier to see on the water. The parachute itself is above the water, so fish cannot tell the difference between an Adams and a Parachute Adams.

The Parachute Adams looks nearly identical to the Adams Dry Fly, with the main difference being the white (or other color) parachute on top. This parachute enhances visibility on the water, making the fly easier for the angler to see.

Most fly fishermen will agree that the Adams is a staple in the dry fly box.  Along with the Elk Hair Caddis, and the Parachute Adams, this fly is most widely used.  Sizes 12/14 and even 16 are equality used.

How to Fish the Adams

Listed below are some tips on how to effectively fish the Adams Dry Fly:

1. Water Conditions: The Adams Dry Fly works best in clear, moving water.  It is great to fish near in calm areas near riffles, eddies, or pools where trout are likely to feed.
2. Drag-Free Drift: The drag free drift is critical for fly fishing, and very important when fishing the Adams.  Keep unnecessary line off the water.  Cast upstream and allow the fly to float downstream while mending your line during the drift. 
3. Presentation: Keep your rod tip low and follow the fly with your rod.  A gentle presentation is the key to making the Adams seem lifelike on the water. 
4. Quick Hook Sets:  So many fish are lost from slow hooksets.  A firm and quick hook set is the key to using the Adams.  Often you have less than a second for the fish to make the decision to take the fly.  Setting the hook quickly helps put more fish in the net.

You can use the Adams as a point fly in a dry dropper configuration.