Dragonfly Nymphs

Dragonflies belong to the order of insects called Odonata.  The insects have incomplete metamorphosis consisting of egg, nymph and adults.  Most of the nymphs are extreme predators and will eat small fish, other insects and just about anything they can get a hold of.  The nymphs use extractable jaws to grab their prey.  They can also shoot water through their bodies in form propulsion to intercept prey or escape. The adults feed on mosquitoes and other flies and can usually live up to 3 or 4 months.

Dragonfly nymphs are an important trout food in many waters and large nymph imitations will take some big fish.  In lakes and ponds they are also an important food source. Many good underwater bass flies owe their success to dragonfly nymphs which are eagerly sought after by bass.

Dragon fly nymphs tend to be amber to brownish grey no matter where you find them. Mature nymphs are the best to imitate and they emerge by usually crawling up a stick or plant material.  The nymph form can last a few months up to 5 years in some species. The video below will give you a good indication of their behavior. 

Dragonfly Nymphs