Letort Hopper

The Letort Hopper is a popular and effective dry fly pattern used by anglers, particularly for trout fishing. It is designed to imitate a grasshopper, which is a common terrestrial insect found near rivers and streams. The Letort Hopper was developed by legendary fly tier and angler Ed Shenk, named after the Letort Spring Run in Pennsylvania, where it was first created and successfully used.

The Letort Hopper is characterized by its buoyant and high-floating design, which allows it to stay on the water’s surface and mimic the natural movement of a grasshopper. It is typically tied on a hook with a slightly curved shank, which helps to imitate the profile of a grasshopper’s body.

The color of the body can vary, but it often features a combination of natural grasshopper hues, such as green, brown, or yellow.

The fly is also known for its distinctive wing configuration. It typically features two pairs of wings made from durable materials like synthetic fibers or duck or turkey wing quills. The wings are positioned at an upward angle, giving the fly a realistic wing posture when floating on the water’s surface.

Is typically fished in the summer and early fall when grasshoppers are most active near rivers and streams. It is often presented with a dead drift or skated across the water’s surface to imitate the movements of a grasshopper that has fallen into the water.

Overall, the Letort Hopper is a highly effective fly pattern for enticing trout and other fish that feed on grasshoppers. Its buoyant design, realistic profile, and lifelike movement make it a go-to choice for anglers targeting fish in terrestrial insect-rich environments.

Usually available in the following hook sizes: 8 | 10 | 12