What is the best egg pattern size for Kenai Dolly Varden in August?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

When targeting **Dolly Varden** on the Kenai River during August, the optimal size for an egg pattern is size **10**. This size strikes the perfect balance in mimicking the natural eggs that Dolly Varden feed on during this time of year.

The **Kenai River** is known for its prolific runs of salmon, and as these fish spawn, they naturally drop eggs into the river, creating a buffet for Dolly Varden. Using a size 10 egg pattern allows your fly to resemble these natural eggs closely, increasing your chances of hooking up with these aggressive feeders.

### Why Size 10?

- **Realism**: The size 10 egg pattern closely matches the average size of salmon eggs in the river, making it more likely to be mistaken for the real thing by the fish.
- **Visibility**: While smaller patterns like size 14 may look appealing, they can sometimes be overlooked by fish in faster currents. A size 10 pattern provides enough visibility to attract fish without being too large and unnatural.
- **Versatility**: This size works well in various water conditions, whether you're fishing in deeper pools or shallow riffles.

### Practical Tip

When fishing with egg patterns, ensure your presentation is as natural as possible. Allow your fly to drift with the current, keeping slack to a minimum to detect subtle takes. Using a **strike indicator** can greatly enhance your ability to see when a fish takes your fly.

For more detailed insights, check out these products that could enhance your fishing experience:

- [12 Glow Bug Fly/Egg Steelhead Fly Lure Assortment for Trout Fly Fishing Flies](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MGP5CSC?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) - Perfect for targeting Dolly Varden with a variety of colors.

- [12 Glo Bug Egg Pro Pack 3, Fly Fishing Egg Pattern Wet Nymph Fly Fishing Flies](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D76MP6ZC?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) - Another excellent choice for egg patterns in multiple sizes.

You can also learn more about fishing for Dolly Varden in Alaska with these informative videos:

- ![How to Catch Alaska Dolly Varden with a Fly Rod](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/lPHN6WJGYmk/default.jpg) [Watch here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPHN6WJGYmk)

- ![Fly Fishing Dolly Varden In Alaska (Giant Fish LOST!)](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/YVbqx8cgWw8/default.jpg) [Watch here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVbqx8cgWw8)

Remember, the key to success is patience and persistence. Happy fishing! 🎣

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