August – Stillwater Fly Selection

August stillwater fishing in the UK is often influenced by warm water temperatures, clear conditions, and increased angling pressure. Success at this time of year is usually less about constant surface feeding and more about timing, observation, and careful presentation.

Terrestrial insects remain an important food source throughout August. Beetles, ants, and particularly Daddy Long Legs can all provide excellent surface sport when conditions allow. These patterns are often most effective during breezy weather, overcast days, or when terrestrials are blown onto the water, rather than during prolonged calm and bright conditions.

Fry are now well established on many stillwaters, and larger trout may actively target them, especially in the margins and shallower areas. When this behaviour is evident, fish can feed aggressively for short periods, making fry imitations a valuable option when trout are ignoring smaller offerings.

Despite the warmer conditions, midges and buzzers continue to hatch in large numbers on stillwaters. Buzzer fishing remains effective through August, particularly when fish are feeding just below the surface or during quieter periods when they are reluctant to fully commit to dry flies.

Fish behaviour in August can change quickly throughout the day. Early mornings and evenings often offer the most consistent opportunities, while midday fishing may require deeper presentations or more subtle tactics.

The flies in this collection have been selected to reflect typical UK August stillwater conditions, focusing on key terrestrial patterns, fry imitations, and dependable buzzer patterns that continue to produce fish through late summer.

If you’re unsure which flies best suit your local stillwater or current conditions, we’re always happy to help.