The Griffith’s Gnat Dry Fly is a pattern that provides a convincing representation of a midge struggling to emerge from the surface film. It is particularly effective during mild, sunny spells when midges hatch in numbers and trout feed steadily just beneath or within the surface layer. The peacock herl body creates natural iridescence, while the grizzle hackle gives the fly buoyancy and subtle movement.
A key reason for its effectiveness lies in how the fly sits high on the water. The tips of the hackle fibres touch the surface lightly, creating small contact points that resemble the footprint of a real insect. This life like surface disturbance can be enough to trigger takes from selective fish.
In addition to trout, Griffith’s Gnat also makes an excellent grayling pattern, particularly outside the main trout season when grayling continue to feed on midges.
Please note all of our fishing flies are barbless unless otherwise stated.
Griffith’s Gnat Dry Fly Specifications
Body – Peacock Herl
Hackle – Cock Grizzle Palmered
Rib - Silver Wire
Head – Black Silk
Hook – Barbless, Mustad of Norway
Target Species - Trout & Grayling
Why Choose The Griffith’s Gnat Dry Fly?
Emerging Midge Imitation
Effectively represents midges trapped in or emerging from the surface film.
High Floating Design
Hackle fibres create surface “footprints” that enhance realism.
Season-Long Versatility
Suitable for trout from early spring through autumn and effective for grayling beyond the trout season.
How To Prepare The Griffith’s Gnat Dry Fly
Apply Floatant To Hackle
Lightly treat the hackle to maintain buoyancy and surface position.
Avoid Overloading The Body
Keep floatant minimal on the body to preserve a natural profile.
Dry Between Casts
Use amadou or desiccant powder if the fly absorbs water during use.
How To Fish The Griffith’s Gnat Dry Fly
Sunny Hatch Conditions
Fish during bright or mild spells between March and October when midges are actively hatching. Present the fly to rising trout with a drag free drift.
Dead Drift in Calm Water
Target smooth glides, pool tails and stillwater margins where midges gather. Allow the fly to sit naturally on the surface.
Winter Grayling Tactic
Outside the main trout season, fish it slowly in steady currents for grayling, particularly when small midges are present.
Griffith’s Gnat remains a dependable and adaptable dry fly, offering realistic surface presentation and consistent results whenever trout or grayling are feeding on midges.
