The "Cicada" foam fly is a meticulously designed and highly effective pattern that capitalizes on the irresistible allure of cicadas for trout during their seasonal hatches. Realistic Imitation: a. Foam Body: The buoyant foam body not only ensures the fly remains afloat but also accurately replicates the size and shape of an adult cicada, providing a tantalizing visual cue for trout. b. Variegated Foam Wings: The splayed foam wings are carefully crafted with variegated colors and patterns, mimicking the intricate wing markings of real cicadas, further enhancing the fly's realistic appearance. c. Rubber Legs: The addition of rubber legs adds an extra layer of realism, as they undulate and move in a lifelike manner when the fly is twitched or drifted, simulating the struggling motions of a cicada on the water's surface. Natural Presentation: a. Subtle Profile: The natural brown coloration and low-profile design of the Cicada foam fly allow it to drift over wary trout without spooking them, increasing the chances of a successful strike. b. Drag-Free Drift: Proper presentation involves casting the fly near potential ambush points and allowing it to drift drag-free, mimicking the natural movement of a cicada that has fallen onto the water. c. Twitching Action: Occasional subtle twitches or small strips of the fly line can impart a lifelike struggling motion to the fly, triggering an instinctive predatory response from trout keyed in on cicadas. Targeted Species and Conditions: a. Trout Species: The Cicada foam fly is particularly effective for enticing strikes from selective rainbow, brown, brook, and cutthroat trout during cicada hatches. b. Ambush Points: Trout often lie in wait near banks, overhanging branches, and other structures, ready to ambush any cicadas that fall onto the water's surface. Targeting these areas with the Cicada foam fly can yield excellent results. c. Seasonal Hatches: Timing is crucial when fishing the Cicada foam fly, as it is most productive during the peak of cicada hatches, when trout are actively keyed in on these large, protein-rich insects. Strike Detection and Hook Set: a. Visual Cues: Anglers should remain vigilant for any subtle surface disturbances or subtle rises that may indicate a trout has taken the Cicada foam fly. b. Immediate Hook Set: Due to the large size of the fly and the aggressive nature of trout strikes on cicadas, it is essential to set the hook immediately upon detecting a take, ensuring a solid hookup. The Cicada foam fly is a testament to the ingenuity and attention to detail of fly tyers, who have meticulously crafted a pattern that not only mimics the appearance of a cicada but also its natural movements and behaviors. When fished during the appropriate seasonal hatches and presented correctly, this fly can unlock incredible opportunities for anglers targeting selective trout species.