The Caddis Hopper Fly is a modern dry fly variation based on one of the most trusted trout patterns of all time: the CDC & Elk Caddis.

By keeping the proven silhouette and floatation of the classic CDC & Elk, and adding rubber legs for extra movement and surface disturbance, this pattern becomes even more effective in South African river conditions.

The legs give the fly a subtle “kicking” action in the current, helping it stand out in broken water and often triggering aggressive takes from trout that might ignore more static dries.

This fly imitates adult caddisflies, but the added legs also suggest a larger terrestrial insect, making it an excellent crossover pattern when fish are opportunistically feeding. This pattern has proved to be very useful on the Holsloot river.

In South African conditions, the Caddis Hopper Fly excels:

• On freestone rivers and faster runs where visibility matters
• During summer when trout feed confidently on top
• When you want a fly that floats high and stays active
• As a reliable searching dry when no hatch is obvious

The CDC provides natural movement and floatation, while the elk hair wing keeps the fly riding high even in rough water.

Tied in-house by Stream and Sea, the Caddis Hopper Fly is built with durable materials and proven proportions for South African trout streams.

A classic caddis profile — with just a little more life.

Key Features

• Based on the proven CDC & Elk Caddis pattern
• Added rubber legs for extra movement and trigger response
• High-floating dry fly for South African rivers
• Great searching pattern when fish are feeding opportunistically
• Ideal for summer trout and fast water

How to Fish It (SA Conditions)

• Line: Floating line with a tapered leader
• Presentation: Dead drift or slight twitch near banks and seams
• Best Use: Broken water, summer evenings, searching dry fly