dry fly

American  

noun

Angling.

1. an artificial fly designed for use on the surface of the water.

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dry fly British  

noun

1. angling Compare wet fly

   1. an artificial fly designed and prepared to be floated or skimmed on the surface of the water

   2. ( as modifier )

      dry-fly fishing

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Etymology

Origin of dry fly

First recorded in 1840–50

Compare meaning

How does dry-fly compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• dry fly vs. wet fly

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

dry fly

Over time, these innovators gave the Catskills the grandiose—if ultimately unprovable—distinction of being the birthplace of American dry fly fishing.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 5, 2026

The weather had inspired Daniel to change his technique, switching from a dry fly to a lure that resembled a worm.

From Washington Post ● Aug. 18, 2021

He caught 10 small but eager rainbows on a dry fly version of the Coch-y-bondu, one every few casts.

From Washington Times ● Aug. 15, 2015

For most trout enthusiasts, dry fly fishing represents the pinnacle of the pastime.

From New York Times ● May 11, 2013

The Senator’s son had a dry fly outfit that was his treasure.

From Unexplored! by Allen Chaffee