The Tools for Depth Control

When the hatch is on, the fish are looking for emerging insects, which are located higher in the water column. In general, fish are locked to the bottom during the winter, so flies must sink quickly and stay down throughout the drift. In summer, when fish are actively feeding, it is effective to maintain long drifts. This requires a moderate sink rate and keeping flies at medium depth, where they can be spotted by fish in active moods. Feeding levels are less certain during the spring and fall, so it is best to try different depths to investigate what the fish are doing.

In the same area, the angler must attempt drifts at different depths adjusting the presentation or using specific presentations for certain water types.

The different elements that permit to control depth and drag could be represented with a bit of imagination as gauges. There are seven basic elements available to adjust the presentation to the different deeps and trout behavior. The first element considered is the tippet diameter. Thinner tippets create less drag force and less elevation force to the nymphs. If you want your flies to go deeper, use thinner tippets.