Indicators

[Ggrove]

What sorts of indicators do you use? What kinds for what situations? There are so many types out there, and I would imagine they each have their pros and cons. I personally just use the standard bright styrofoam ones because its all I have gotten my hands on, but I have seen all sorts of different ones.

 

[Beweav]

My favorite is a Dorsey Yarn Indicator. Someone on here told me about them and I really don’t use anything else at this point. They are really easy to make so I don’t have to constantly buy new overpriced foam ones. They float well and land like a dry fly so they don’t spook fish as easily. The only time I’d use something else is if I’m trying to suspend a really heavy fly.
Here’s a article about them if your interested.
https://troutbitten.com/2017/03/30/dorsey-yarn-indicator-everything-need-know-little/

 

[Tfhough]

Generally I don't use them on familiar water, but when I do feel I need one, its EVA foam. Available everywhere, including as wasteful throwaway packing material. I cut it up into M&M sized chunks and run a hole through it with a carpet needle. I store the chunks in a small container along with the carpet needle that is used to pull a leader section through the premade hole via the needle's large eye, where I want the chunk/indicator to be. A quick loop knot holds everything in place and moving/removing the chunk is a breeze. Reusable, old ones go in a pocket and are tossed back at home.

 

[hooker-of-men]

Fly Fishing Strike Indicators, Finally Perfected | Oros Fly Fishing

The best fly fishing strike indicators available on the market today. Search for a store near you or order online today. Oros Fly Fishing products are the high quality you've been looking for in fly fishing gear.

orosflyfishing.com

Easy on, easy off, and they don't destroy your leader with a bunch of kinks

 

[The Rodfather]

I use the Oros strike indicators. Found them on Amazon and they work pretty well for what they are without just using a small bobber.

 

[dudemanspecial]

For general trout fishing I like the yarn / wool types. Dorsey or New Zealand doesn't matter.

I do keep a few sizes of airlocks in my vest and use them if the water is really ripping to the point I have to add enough weight to sink a yarn indicator, but I think they are generally too heavy for normal trout rigs.

Airlocks for heavy steelhead rigs too.