To further simplify the detailed and
complicated subject of entomology in our effort to educate readers about the fundamental relationships between
"insects" and fish, we consolidate our presentation of "insectology"
into 5
main classes of insects:
Mayflies
Caddisflies
Stoneflies
Dragon & Damsel flies
Terrestrials
It is these 5 "classes" of aquatic insects that
are the most important to freshwater fish. They are prevalent throughout
North America and particularly abundant, and available, to fish in the
U.S.
Montana's
Big Hole River supports all 5 insect types
These classes are a major food source for many of the most popular
species of fish sought by flyfishers: all species of trout, bass and sunfish are
dependent upon them for survival. Hence, our understanding and
knowledge of their habits is critical as we strive to imitate them in our attempts to catch fish.
(We cover other freshwater aquatic insects and animals in some detail in this
course. However, in that they are generally
not as important to fish as these 5 more prevalent, wide-ranging insect types,
we do not devote as much time to them.)
