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CHIRONOMO

What it is, how to use it and some usage tips

Fly fishing with chironomo is one of the most popular techniques among trout fishermen in lakes. This method, which uses imitations of chironome larvae, is particularly effective throughout the year, but especially at times when other insect species are less active.

What is a CHIRONOMO imitation in fly fishing?

The chironome is an insect of the order Diptera, similar to mosquitoes but without the need to suck blood. These insects are widespread and can live in waters with low oxygen levels due to the high concentration of haemoglobin in their bodies.

How to Use CHIRONOMO Imitations

Equipment

Cane:

Ideal fly fishing rods for chironomo are generally between 9 and 10 feet long. This allows good tail control and keeps the rod tip high above the water. A rod with a medium-fast action is preferable, as it offers the right combination of sensitivity and power to cast light flies and handle trout.

Rat Tail:

As far as tails are concerned, there are several options depending on the specific technique to be used:

Floating Tails: Used mainly for static fishing with buzzers (chironomes). After casting, avoid retrieving the tail and let it flow naturally. Keep the rod tip about 30 cm above the surface of the water and observe the curve of the rat tail as a bite indicator.
Code Midge Tip: Ideal for chironome and nymph fishing. This type of tail is buoyant with an intermediate tip that can range from 6′ to 12′.

Techniques, Throwing and Recovery

Casting in fly fishing with chironomo requires precision and delicacy.

Here are some tips:

Long and Precise Throw: Try to cast the fly as far as possible while maintaining accuracy, immediately retrieve the excess tail by putting your lures in and wait for it to sink. At this point begin to retrieve very slowly and make long stops to allow the chironomes to sink again. If fishing from the boat when the tail is about 4 metres from the boat start to lift the rod very slowly and be ready to cast! If you find that the trout are deep, tip a chironome with a small tungsten pellet.
Chironomas can also be used for static fishing using a Bung/Tap, you just need to find the depth at which the trout are stationed and prepare the set-up with one or more chironomas.
If there is hatching with surface activity, we can mount a booby or fab on the tip of our line so that our chironomes work just below the surface.
Fishing with floating chironomes in the presence of hatching and numerous boils is also very entertaining and effective.

Fly-fishing with chironomo is a very versatile technique and can be used throughout the year. However, it is particularly effective at times when other insect species are less active.

In general, the chironome is an excellent choice when trout are less active at the surface and are found deeper. It is also a good option in lakes where chironomes are an abundant food source for trout.

Variants and Combinations

When fishing with buzzers, it is advisable to use hooks ranging from 10 to 14 by varying the colours of the flies. A brightly coloured blob such as neon yellow and orange can work as an attractor for freshly released trout.