Which flies are best for Kenai Dolly Varden in August, including size and color?

Fishing for Dolly Varden in the Kenai River during August is an exciting adventure, and selecting the right fly can make all the difference. Here's a list of the top 5 flies with specific sweet spot sizes and colors that are particularly effective:

1. Egg Patterns:

   • Size: 8-10
   • Color: Orange and pink
   • Sweet Spot: These mimic salmon eggs, which are a significant part of the Dolly Varden's diet in August. Try the Glo Bug or the Nuke Egg for best results.

2. Bead Head Woolly Bugger:

   • Size: 6-8
   • Color: Olive or black
   • Sweet Spot: This versatile fly works well in various conditions. The bead head adds weight, allowing it to sink and mimic small baitfish or leeches.

3. Flash Fly:

   • Size: 4-6
   • Color: Silver and blue
   • Sweet Spot: The flash and movement attract attention. Perfect for clear water days when you need a bit of sparkle.

4. Articulated Streamer:

   • Size: 4-6
   • Color: White with some chartreuse
   • Sweet Spot: Mimics small fish, which Dolly Varden prey on. The articulation gives it an enticing action in the water.

5. Muddler Minnow:

   • Size: 8-10
   • Color: Natural or gold
   • Sweet Spot: Known for its buoyancy and versatility, the Muddler can be fished on the surface or just below, resembling sculpins or other small fish.

Practical Tip: When fishing for Dolly Varden, consider using a sink tip line to get your flies down to the fish. Vary your retrieval speed to find what attracts the fish that day.

For a visual guide and more tips on fishing the Kenai River, check out this video for some inspiration!

Stay positive and keep casting, the Kenai Dolly Varden won't disappoint!