# **How to Choose Dave’s Hopper Fly Fishing Set, Size #10 – Topwater Terrestrial Dry Flies for Bass, Panfish, Trout**
Fly fishing is an art, and selecting the right fly can make all the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. One of the most effective and versatile dry flies for targeting bass, panfish, and trout is **Dave’s Hopper Fly Fishing Set in Size #10**. Designed to mimic grasshoppers and other terrestrial insects, this fly excels in topwater presentations, making it a must-have in any angler’s fly box.
In this guide, we’ll break down why **Dave’s Hopper Fly** is a top choice, how to choose the right setup, and the best techniques for maximizing its effectiveness.
## **Why Choose Dave’s Hopper Fly?**
### **1. Realistic Imitation**
Dave’s Hopper is crafted to resemble a natural grasshopper, complete with buoyant materials that keep it riding high on the water. The **Size #10** is ideal for imitating medium to large hoppers, which are a favorite meal for bass, panfish, and trout—especially during late summer and early fall when terrestrial insects are abundant.
### **2. Versatility Across Species**
– **Bass**: Largemouth and smallmouth bass aggressively strike at hoppers near banks and overhanging vegetation.
– **Panfish**: Bluegill and crappie love smaller hopper patterns, making Size #10 a great fit.
– **Trout**: In rivers and streams, trout key in on hoppers that fall into the water, making this fly deadly in dry-dropper rigs.
### **3. High Floatability**
Constructed with **deer hair, foam, and synthetic fibers**, Dave’s Hopper stays afloat even after multiple strikes, ensuring long-lasting performance.
## **How to Choose the Right Setup**
### **1. Rod & Line Selection**
– **For Bass & Panfish**: A **5-7 weight fly rod** with a floating line provides the right balance of power and presentation.
– **For Trout**: A **4-6 weight rod** with a weight-forward floating line is ideal for delicate casts.
### **2. Leader & Tippet**
– **Bass/Panfish**: Use a **7.5-9ft leader with 0X-2X tippet** for better turnover and durability.
– **Trout**: A **9-12ft leader with 3X-5X tippet** ensures a natural drift in clear water.
### **3. Presentation Techniques**
– **Dead Drift**: Let the fly float naturally with the current—ideal for trout in moving water.
– **Skating & Twitching**: Add slight twitches to mimic a struggling hopper, triggering aggressive strikes from bass.
– **Dry-Dropper Rig**: Pair the hopper with a nymph below for double the action.
## **Best Fishing Conditions**
– **Time of Year**: Late summer to early fall, when grasshoppers are most active.
– **Water Type**: Works well in **rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes**, especially near grassy banks.
– **Weather**: Warm, sunny days when terrestrials are active.
## **Final Thoughts**
Dave’s Hopper Fly in **Size #10** is a **proven topwater fly** that consistently produces results for multiple species. Whether you’re targeting aggressive bass, feisty panfish, or selective trout, this fly delivers.
For the best performance, pair it with the right rod, leader, and presentation style. **KyleBooker** offers premium fly fishing gear to complement this fly—check out our selection for the perfect setup!
**Tight lines and happy fishing!** 🎣