Black Gnat
03 Jun 2025
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Black Gnat
A classic black dry fly pattern that's a must have for every angler's trout fishing fly box.
How it's tied
The Black Gnat is a simple and effective fly pattern, tied using a short shank hook, black thread, and only a few materials. The body is typically formed from black dubbing or floss, wrapped around the hook shank to create a slender profile. The tail is made from hackle fibers or other fine materials, while the wing is formed from white or gray hackle tips or synthetic fibers. A palmered black hackle is added along the body, providing both movement and flotation.
What it mimics
The Black Gnat is designed to imitate small black insects, such as midges, gnats, and black flies, which are common food sources for trout, grayling, and other fish species. Its simple profile and contrasting wing make it an effective and easily visible imitation.
Where it's used
The Black Gnat is adaptable and can be used in various water types, including rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. It is particularly effective during periods when fish are feeding on small black insects, either on the water's surface or in the surface film. In other words: this is really one to match the hatch. When there are not black insects around it's often not worth it to bother. When there are: this fly will be very effective hence this being a must have for your trout fly box. To fish the Black Gnat effectively, present it gently on the water's surface and allow it to drift naturally with the current.
Fly tying video for the Black Gnat
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