Entomology: bug of the month
The Mayfly (Ephemera Danica)
Our expert Rafał Knieć gives a great insight into the bug behind the tie.
Firstly, what is entomology? Entomology is the study of insects and their relationship to humans, the environment, and other organisms.
How does this help with catching fish?
This will give you and insight on what your quarry is feeding on.
You may ask ‘Which fly should I use?’
Mayfly (Ephemera Danica). Adult mayflies swarm from May to August, larvae may develop from 1 to 3 years. It occurs almost all over Europe. One of the largest insects of the order Epheremoptera. The most recognized insect among fly fishermen. Mayflys are a very good indication of the water quality In many regions, its swarm is the most anticipated time for anglers (Duffers fortnite, but we won’t talk about that!), noon to late noon and onwards into the evening is a great time to observe immense clouds of these fascinating bugs, dancing on the surface of the river laying their eggs.
What do Mayfly look like?
Winged mayflies have large compound eyes, short, bristlelike antennae, and functionless mouthparts and digestive tracts. Once mayflies enter the winged stages they cannot feed. Their membranous wings include a large, triangular front pair and a much smaller, rounded hind pair. In a few species, the hind pair is extremely reduced or absent. In repose, the wings are held together upright over the body like those of a Butterfly.
The adult mayfly has two or three threadlike tails, usually as long as, or longer than, the body.
The chances of catching large and very large fish that feed intensively on the surface of the water increase significantly, don’t be fooled though, as they can still be very challanging.
Check out the video below to see what Rafal got up too.


Photos supplied Rafal Kniec
The Mayfly (Ephemera Danica)
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