Hook Size 2, 1/0,4
The “Perfect Fly” Clouser Minnow fly is a generic imitation of a baitfish. The fly was
originally designed by Bob Clouser as a fly for smallmouth bass. They soon became
excellent searching flies for other fresh and saltwater gamefish. The Clouser Minnow is
also one of the most popular flies for trout.
We recommend the Olive and White version when you are fishing clear water. The
Chartreuse and White works great for stained or off colored water. These flies can be
used just about anywhere trout exist in still water, rivers and streams. They work in both
shallow and deep water. The Clouser Minnow flies come in hook sizes 2, 4 and 1/0.
Gear:
We recommend an eight or nine weight fly rod. Fast to medium fast actions work best in
most fishing situations. This fly cast well in windy conditions so the same fly rods will
usually work just fine under those conditions.
You should fish the fly based on the species of trout you are pursuing. If the trout are
holding on the bottom, you should crawl it across the bottom. If they are feeding on
baitfish, you should strip the fly fast using long strips with short pauses between strips. If
your not getting any action from the trout, vary the retrieve from slow to fast. Vary the
strips from short, erratic strips to long strips.
The Clouser Minnow fly is an excellent fly for large trout, especially large brown trout. If
you are fishing for brown trout, fish the fly when you have low light conditions, such as
early in the mornings, late in the day, evenings and during cloudy, overcast days..
