Fly Fishing with Bass Nymphs Part 3: Fishing the Olive Dragonfly Nymph for Smallmouth Bass

Continuing our series on fly fishing with bass nymphs, this post is focusing on the Dragonfly Nymph.

Olive Dragonfly Nymph

Virginia’s smallmouth rivers are loaded with dragonfly nymphs, and big bass know it. This pattern nails the profile, color, and movement of the naturals — giving you a fly that draws strikes from the largest fish in the pool.

How to Fish It

• Target deep, large pools where trophy smallmouth hold in warmer months
• Rig on a Murray’s Bright Butt 9 ft 2X leader and strip along the bottom in 5-second pulls to mimic a fleeing nymph
• Let it sink fully before the retrieve — big bass want it on the bottom

Season & Species

Most productive from April through October on Virginia’s smallmouth rivers. The large hook gap and full-bodied silhouette make it a go-to when you want to put a serious mouthful in front of a trophy bass.

Though Harry Murray recorded this video several years ago as part of his series of Fly Fishing with Bass Nymphs, the techniques and strategies he demonstrates remain just as effective on the water today.*****

Fly Fishing with Bass Nymphs Part 3: Fishing the Olive Dragonfly Nymph for Smallmouth Bass

Continuing our Fly Fishing with Bass Nymphs series, this article focuses on one of the most effective large-profile nymph patterns for targeting smallmouth bass in Virginia rivers—the Olive Dragonfly Nymph.

Olive Dragonfly Nymph

Virginia’s smallmouth bass rivers are full of natural dragonfly nymphs, and big bass recognize them as a valuable food source. The Olive Dragonfly Nymph closely imitates the size, shape, color, and swimming action of these large aquatic insects, making it an excellent choice when targeting larger fish.

This proven bass nymph pattern is especially effective when you want to imitate a substantial meal for aggressive smallmouth bass. The full-bodied profile and natural olive coloration make it a standout fly for fishing deep pools, slow runs, and areas where trophy bass hold during warmer months.

How to Fish the Olive Dragonfly Nymph

• Target deep pools, ledges, and slower water where larger smallmouth bass seek shelter during the summer months.
• Rig the Olive Dragonfly Nymph on a Murray’s Bright Butt 9-foot 2X Leader and retrieve it along the bottom using slow 5-second strips to imitate a fleeing dragonfly nymph.
• Allow the fly to sink completely before beginning your retrieve. Large smallmouth bass often feed close to the bottom and prefer an easy meal presented in their strike zone.

Best Seasons and Target Species

The Olive Dragonfly Nymph is most productive from April through October on Virginia’s smallmouth bass rivers. During this period, dragonfly nymphs are active and provide an important food source for hungry bass.

The fly’s large hook gap and bulky silhouette make it an excellent choice when you want to present a substantial meal and target the largest smallmouth bass in the river.

Target Species: Smallmouth Bass • Trout • Carp

In the video below, Murray’s Fly Shop founder and fly fishing guide Harry Murray demonstrates his proven techniques for fishing the Dragonfly Nymph. Although Harry recorded this video several years ago, the presentations, retrieves, and strategies remain just as effective today for anglers pursuing smallmouth bass throughout Virginia.

Recommended Bass Nymph Fishing Gear

Damsel Olive Nymph

An outstanding imitation of the natural damselfly nymph that is deadly on smallmouth bass, trout, and carp. Fish it around grass beds, weed edges, and brush piles with a slow, darting retrieve.

Shop Damsel Olive Nymph ?

Olive Dragonfly Nymph

A realistic dragonfly nymph pattern designed for smallmouth bass fly fishing. Fish it slowly along the bottom of deep pools from spring through fall to imitate one of bass’ favorite natural food sources. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Shop Olive Dragonfly Nymph ?

Murray’s Bright Butt Leader

Our signature hand-tied leader improves strike detection and turns over bass nymphs with ease. A proven choice for fishing the Shenandoah River and other smallmouth bass waters.

Shop Bright Butt Leader ?