# **How to Choose Kate McLaren Trout Flies: A Guide to Wet Flies, Size Selection, and Loch Fishing**
As an angler, selecting the right fly can make all the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. Among the most effective and time-tested patterns for trout fishing is the **Kate McLaren**—a classic **wet fly** that has proven its worth in rivers, lochs, and stillwaters.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the best **Kate McLaren trout flies**, covering key factors such as **size selection, wet fly fishing techniques, and loch-specific strategies**. Whether you’re targeting wild brown trout, sea trout, or stocked rainbows, understanding these elements will help you maximize your success.
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## **1. Understanding the Kate McLaren Wet Fly**
The **Kate McLaren** is a traditional Scottish wet fly pattern designed to imitate emerging insects, drowned terrestrials, or small baitfish. Its key features include:
– **Body:** A mix of peacock herl and red floss, creating an attractive, buggy profile.
– **Hackle:** Soft hen feathers that provide subtle movement in the water.
– **Wing (optional):** Some variations include a wing for added visibility.
This fly excels in **loch-style fishing**, where a team of wet flies is often used, but it’s equally effective in river fishing when swung or retrieved in a slow, pulsing motion.
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## **2. Choosing the Right Size: 3 Essential Options**
Selecting the correct **fly size** is crucial, as trout can be selective depending on conditions. Here are three recommended sizes for the **Kate McLaren**:
### **a) Size 10 – Large & Attractive**
– Best for **early season** when trout are aggressive.
– Ideal in **murky water** or low-light conditions where visibility matters.
– Works well as a **”top dropper”** in a three-fly setup.
### **b) Size 12 – The All-Rounder**
– The most versatile size for **general trout fishing**.
– Effective in both **rivers and lochs**, especially when fish are feeding on mid-sized insects.
– Pairs well with other traditional wet flies like the **Peter Ross** or **Dunkeld**.
### **c) Size 14 – Small & Subtle**
– Perfect for **clear water** and **pressured trout**.
– Mimics tiny emergers or midges, making it deadly in **summer and autumn**.
– Best fished on a **long leader** with a slow retrieve.
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## **3. Fishing Techniques: How to Fish the Kate McLaren Effectively**
### **a) Traditional Wet Fly Swing (Rivers & Streams)**
– Cast **across and slightly downstream**, allowing the fly to swing in the current.
– Use a **slow, steady retrieve** with occasional pauses.
– Works well in **riffles and pools** where trout hold.
### **b) Loch-Style Fishing (Stillwaters & Reservoirs)**
– Fish in a **team of three flies**, with the Kate McLaren as the **middle dropper**.
– Retrieve in a **”figure-eight”** or **”slow pull”** method to imitate emerging insects.
– Best in **overcast conditions** or during a **hatch**.
### **c) Nymphing with a Wet Fly (Deep Water Tactics)**
– Add a **small split shot** to get the fly deeper.
– Use a **slow hand-twist retrieve** to keep the fly near the bottom.
– Effective in **deep lochs** where trout feed near the substrate.
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## **4. Why the Kate McLaren is a Must-Have in Your Fly Box**
– **Proven Effectiveness:** A classic pattern with decades of success.
– **Versatility:** Works in rivers, lochs, and reservoirs.
– **Great in a Team:** Pairs well with other traditional wet flies for a multi-fly setup.
If you’re looking for a reliable **trout fly** that performs in various conditions, the **Kate McLaren** is an excellent choice. Stock up on different sizes (10, 12, 14) to cover all scenarios, and experiment with retrieves to find what triggers the most strikes.
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### **Final Tip: Match the Hatch & Adjust Accordingly**
While the Kate McLaren is a great **generalist pattern**, always observe the water for insect activity. If trout are keying in on a specific size or color, adjust your fly choice accordingly.
For premium-quality **Kate McLaren trout flies**, check out **KyleBooker’s selection**—hand-tied with durable materials for maximum effectiveness. Tight lines!
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Would you like any modifications or additional details on specific fishing scenarios? Happy to refine the article further! 🎣