Black Gnat

The Black Gnat is a traditional dry fly pattern designed to imitate small, dark-colored insects—primarily adult gnats, midges, and black-bodied mayflies. Its slim black body and dark hackle make it especially effective during light midge or gnat hatches, particularly in the warmer months when swarms of small terrestrial or aquatic insects gather near the water. It excels on calm water or slow-moving streams, where trout feed delicately on small, dark bugs near the surface.

History:
The Black Gnat is one of the oldest dry fly patterns still in use, with origins dating back to the 19th century or earlier in both the British Isles and North America. Originally tied as both a wet and dry fly, it became widely used in the late 1800s for its effectiveness in imitating small black insects commonly found on streams and lakes. The dry version, typically tied with black hackle, a black thread body, and occasionally wings of mallard or duck, gained popularity with traditionalists for its simplicity and versatility. Despite the rise of more modern patterns, the Black Gnat remains a go-to for fly fishers targeting selective trout feeding on tiny, dark-bodied flies.