We tend to think of the Black Gnat as resembling a gnat, but it may not be that at all. When tied small, of course, it is most likely to resemble a gnat or midge, but tied larger, it can suggest many other potential trout foods that may be blown onto the water.

A classic trout fly, the Black Gnat is most often these days tied dry, but it can be an important pattern when fished below the surface. Consider it as part of a three-fly cast when prospecting for summer rainbows or cutthroats on the McKenzie.

Tie the wet-fly version of the Black Gnat with red thread on a No. 10-16 wet-fly hook. For the body, use three black fibers from a turkey tail. Rib with fine green wire. For the hackle, use black or purple starling hackle.

—Gary Lewis, for The Bulletin