Best Flies & Patterns for Bass, Pike and Brook Trout

What makes Algoma a true paradise for fly fishers is the abundance of pristine lakes, crystal-clear rivers, a variety of species and opportunities that are both easy to access and affordable. Below are some recommended flies and patterns for smallmouth bass, northern pike, brook trout, and suggested fly lines that should be part of your tackle box.

SMALLMOUTH BASS

Algoma bass are big and aggressive which is why this is a great place to use Topwater flies. Poppers in black, yellow and orange are very effective. Make sure you let the flies sit on the water for a short count to let the bass see it before beginning your retrieve. As the summer progresses and the water gets warmer, Algoma bass-like black Woolly Buggers slowly stripped in. Large white Zonkers in sizes 8 thru 1/0 work well with a fast retrieve to incite explosive takes.

NORTHERN PIKE

Catching pike on a fly is an incredible thrill, especially on the surface. The pike in Algoma Country are big and very, very aggressive! The favourite Topwater patterns to use are Dahlberg Diver in yellow, white and black (sizes 1/0 – 4/0) and also large tarpon poppers in the same colours. For subsurface presentations, we like to use big Deceiver patterns on a full sinking line. All colours seem to work but especially green/white or red/white. Make sure you use bitewire to help prevent bite-offs from these leviathans!

BROOK TROUT

There are a lot of places in Algoma to fly fish for big brookies and we do mean BIG. Dry flies during a hatch work well with our favourite all-around patterns being the Stimulator or the Adams. For streamers, we like to use white or black Zonkers and our favourite is the Zoo Cougar in yellow or white. Cast these streamers around boulders and strip them back fast...hold on as the strikes will be violent and aggressive.

FLY LINES

When coming to Algoma, no matter what species you're angling for with a fly rod, it is a good idea to bring a wide range of differing fly lines. Floating, intermediate and at least one full sinking line is ideal to allow you to put your fly in various parts of the water column. This versatility will give you a better opportunity to connect with Algoma trophy fish, no more what time of year.

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