Chernobyl Ant
06 Jun 2025
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Chernobyl Ant
A large, buoyant terrestrial pattern, imitating ants and other insects, great for spectacular surface action.
How it's tied
The Chernobyl Ant is tied using a short shank hook and a combination of materials to create a high-floating, attention-grabbing profile. The body is formed from layers of foam, typically in contrasting colors, which are cut to shape and then securely attached to the hook shank. Rubber or silicone legs are added on each side of the body, giving the fly lifelike movement and further enhancing its appeal. The final touch can be a wing made from synthetic materials or natural fibers, which can be added to imitate the winged form of ants or other insects.
What it mimics
The Chernobyl Ant is designed to imitate large ants, grasshoppers, beetles, or other terrestrial insects that find themselves on the water's surface. Its bold profile, buoyancy, and lifelike movement make it an attractive target for opportunistic fish species, such as trout and bass, looking for a substantial meal.
Where it's used
The Chernobyl Ant can be used on different waters. Contrary to other dry flies that are designed to match the hatch, the Chernobyl Ant can be used when there's no hatch but you want to test if fish are actively taking surface flies. Because it makes quite the splash when it lands, it will directly grab the attention of nearby fish, which will quickly show you whether they're interested.
It is particularly effective in areas where terrestrial insects are abundant, such as near overhanging trees, bushes, or grassy banks. To fish the Chernobyl Ant effectively, present it with a slight plop on the water's surface, allowing it to drift naturally with the current or using gentle twitches to mimic a struggling insect.
Fly tying video for the Chernobyl Ant
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