Spotting subtle strikes can be the difference between a great day on the water and going home empty-handed. Fly fishing strike indicators act like bobbers, helping you detect those delicate takes, especially when nymphing. I remember one trip where I was convinced the fish weren’t biting, until I switched to a more sensitive indicator and realized I was missing almost every strike! Picking the right one depends on the type of fishing you do, so let’s explore some top contenders.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Thingamabobber Strike Indicator: Highly visible, buoyant, and easy to attach. Great all-around choice.
- Airlock Strike Indicator: Adjustable, secure attachment, and good for heavier rigs.
- New Zealand Strike Indicator Tool and Yarn: Natural presentation, adjustable buoyancy, and minimal impact on casting.
- Fish Pimp Strike Indicator: Extremely sensitive, perfect for light nymphing and wary fish.
- BioStrike Biodegradable Strike Indicators: Environmentally friendly, easy to use, and dissolve over time.
Top 5 Best Fly Fishing Strike Indicators
1. Thingamabobber Strike Indicator
The Thingamabobber is a classic for a reason. These little buoyant balls are super easy to attach to your line and come in bright colors that are easy to see, even in challenging light conditions. They’re also pretty durable and can withstand quite a bit of abuse.
Pros:
- ✅ High visibility.
- ✅ Easy to attach and adjust.
- ✅ Durable construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Can create a bit of splash on landing.
- ❌ Not the most subtle option.
- ❌ Can be difficult to cast in windy conditions.
Verdict: A great all-around indicator for beginners and experienced anglers alike. Ideal for situations where visibility and easy adjustment are key.
2. Airlock Strike Indicator
The Airlock indicator uses a clever screw-lock system to attach to your leader. This creates a very secure hold, preventing slippage even with heavy nymphs or in fast water. They’re also adjustable, so you can easily change your depth.
Pros:
- ✅ Secure attachment to the leader.
- ✅ Easy to adjust depth.
- ✅ Good for heavier nymph rigs.
Cons:
- ❌ Can kink the leader if overtightened.
- ❌ Slightly more complex to attach than some other options.
- ❌ The plastic can become brittle in very cold weather.
Verdict: A solid choice for anglers who need a reliable indicator that won’t slip, especially when fishing with heavier nymphs or in strong currents.
3. New Zealand Strike Indicator Tool and Yarn
For a more natural presentation, the New Zealand Strike Indicator is hard to beat. This system uses a small tool to create a loop in your leader, into which you insert small pieces of brightly colored yarn. The yarn is lightweight and doesn’t spook fish as easily as larger plastic indicators. I remember one time fishing a very clear, slow-moving stream where the New Zealand indicator was the only thing that didn’t send the trout scattering.
Pros:
- ✅ Very natural presentation.
- ✅ Adjustable buoyancy by adding or removing yarn.
- ✅ Minimal impact on casting.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires a bit of practice to master the attachment.
- ❌ Can be fiddly to adjust on the water.
- ❌ Yarn can sometimes come loose.
Verdict: Best for experienced anglers who prioritize a natural presentation and are willing to spend a little extra time setting up their indicator.
4. Fish Pimp Strike Indicator
The Fish Pimp strike indicators are designed with extreme sensitivity in mind. They are incredibly light and responsive, making them perfect for detecting the most subtle strikes, especially when targeting wary fish in clear water. If you’re nymphing with very light tippet, these are worth checking out.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely sensitive.
- ✅ Great for light nymphing.
- ✅ Low water resistance.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as durable as some other options.
- ❌ Can be difficult to see in choppy water.
- ❌ Not ideal for heavy nymphs or fast currents.
Verdict: An excellent choice for anglers targeting spooky fish in clear, slow-moving water. Best used with light nymphs and fine tippet.
5. BioStrike Biodegradable Strike Indicators
If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your fishing gear, BioStrike indicators are a great option. These indicators are made from biodegradable materials that break down over time, reducing the risk of littering our waterways. They’re also easy to attach and use, making them a convenient and eco-friendly choice.
Pros:
- ✅ Biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
- ✅ Easy to attach and use.
- ✅ Good visibility.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as durable as plastic indicators.
- ❌ Can dissolve if left in water for extended periods.
- ❌ May not be suitable for very heavy nymphs.
Verdict: A responsible choice for environmentally conscious anglers who want a functional and eco-friendly strike indicator.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right strike indicator can seem daunting, but it really boils down to matching the indicator to the fishing conditions and your personal preferences. Here’s what to consider:
- Visibility: How well can you see the indicator in different light conditions and water types? Brighter colors are generally easier to spot.
- Buoyancy: Does the indicator have enough buoyancy to support your nymphs without sinking? Consider the weight of your nymphs and the current strength.
- Attachment: How easy is the indicator to attach and adjust? Some indicators are more fiddly than others.
- Presentation: How much does the indicator affect the natural drift of your nymphs? Smaller, more subtle indicators are less likely to spook fish.
- Durability: How long will the indicator last? Some indicators are more durable than others and can withstand more abuse.
- Environmental Impact: Are you concerned about the environmental impact of your fishing gear? Consider biodegradable options.
Think about the type of water you usually fish. Are you mostly on small streams or larger rivers? What about the size of the flies you prefer? When you’re using bigger flies, go with an indicator that can handle the weight. If you’re fishing clear, slow water, smaller, more natural indicators are the way to go. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of indicators to see what works best for you.
FAQs
Q: What size strike indicator should I use?
A: The size of your strike indicator depends on the weight of your nymphs and the current strength. Use a larger indicator for heavier nymphs and faster currents, and a smaller indicator for lighter nymphs and slower currents.
Q: How far from the fly should I place my strike indicator?
A: A good starting point is to set your indicator about 1.5 to 2 times the depth of the water you’re fishing. Adjust as needed based on the fish’s behavior.
Q: Can I reuse strike indicators?
A: Yes, most strike indicators can be reused. Just be sure to inspect them for damage before each use and replace them if necessary.
Q: Are strike indicators only for nymphing?
A: While they’re most commonly used for nymphing, strike indicators can also be helpful when fishing streamers or even dry flies in certain situations.
Q: Do strike indicators spook fish?
A: Yes, large or brightly colored strike indicators can spook fish, especially in clear water. Use smaller, more subtle indicators when targeting wary fish.
Conclusion
Choosing the right strike indicator can significantly improve your fly fishing success. Whether you prioritize visibility, a natural presentation, or environmental responsibility, there’s an indicator out there for you. Consider the conditions you typically fish in, experiment with different options, and find what works best for your style. Happy fishing!
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