The Duckfly

The Duckfly, a species of chironomid or buzzer, is the first fly to hatch. The hatch usually begins in mid-April and lasts for about three weeks. The most prolific hatches occur in the evenings from about 7.30 p.m., but, occasionally, if weather conditions are favorable, they will hatch during the day. Angling tactics during the duckfly period depend on the prevailing weather conditions. In windy weather, with a wave on the water, wetly tactics work best. The most favored patterns are Claret Bumble, Fiery Brown, Sooty Olive, Connemara Black, Peter Ross, Silver Invicta, Red Arrow and Butcher (sizes 10, 12). In calmer conditions, small pupae (size 12) are the preferred method. These should be fished on a long leader with fairly fine monofilament. The principal duckfly areas are Brickeen Bay, Laundry Bay, Rinn Ban Bay, Ballinafad Bay, Andersna Bay, Lough Brick Bay, the back of Annaghloy, Ballindoon Bay and the mouth of the out flowing River Unshin.

When the fly is not hatching, anglers normally fish these areas, if conditions are favorable, using some of the wet flies mentioned above.

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