6 No. Hoppers – choose your colour and size – trout dry fly
# **How to Choose No. 6 Hoppers – Select Your Colour and Size – Trout Dry Fly**
When it comes to trout fishing, dry flies are a go-to choice for anglers who love surface action. Among the most effective dry fly patterns is the **No. 6 Hopper**, a versatile imitation of grasshoppers that can trigger aggressive strikes from trout. However, choosing the right **colour and size** is crucial for success. In this guide, we’ll break down how to select the best **No. 6 Hopper** for your next fishing adventure.
## **Why Use No. 6 Hoppers?**
Grasshoppers are a high-protein meal for trout, especially in late summer and early fall when they frequently fall into rivers and streams. The **No. 6 Hopper** is designed to mimic these insects with lifelike movement and buoyancy. Its **high-floating properties** make it ideal for fast-moving water, while its **realistic silhouette** fools even the most selective trout.
## **Choosing the Right Size**
The **No. 6 Hopper** comes in various sizes, typically ranging from **#8 to #14**. However, the **#6 size** is particularly effective because:
– **Visibility:** Larger trout can spot it from a distance.
– **Buoyancy:** The bigger profile helps it stay afloat in choppy water.
– **Natural Presentation:** Matches the size of real hoppers in many trout streams.
If you’re fishing in **smaller streams**, you might downsize to a **#10 or #12** for a more subtle approach. However, in **big rivers or windy conditions**, the **#6** is often the best choice.
## **Selecting the Right Colour**
Colour plays a significant role in enticing trout. The **No. 6 Hopper** is available in multiple shades, each suited to different conditions:
### **1. Natural Tan & Olive**
– **Best for:** Clear water, bright days
– **Why?** Mimics real hoppers perfectly, blending into the environment.
### **2. Yellow & Orange**
– **Best for:** Low-light conditions, stained water
– **Why?** High visibility triggers reaction strikes.
### **3. Black & Brown**
– **Best for:** Overcast days, pressured fish
– **Why?** Creates a strong silhouette against the sky.
### **4. Pink & Chartreuse (Attractor Colours)**
– **Best for:** Aggressive trout, murky water
– **Why?** Unnatural but highly effective for drawing attention.
## **Fishing Techniques for No. 6 Hoppers**
Once you’ve selected the right **size and colour**, presentation is key:
– **Dead Drift:** Let the fly float naturally with the current.
– **Twitch & Pause:** Add slight movement to imitate a struggling hopper.
– **Bank Fishing:** Cast near grassy banks where hoppers naturally fall in.
## **Final Thoughts**
The **No. 6 Hopper** is a must-have in any trout angler’s fly box. By selecting the right **size and colour** based on water conditions and trout behaviour, you’ll increase your chances of landing more fish.
For **premium-quality No. 6 Hoppers**, check out **KyleBooker’s** range of **high-floating, durable dry flies**—designed for maximum effectiveness on the water.
Happy fishing! 🎣