Salmonflies
Pteronarcys californica
The giant Salmonflies of the Western mountains are legendary for their proclivity to elicit consistent dry-fly action and ferocious strikes.
Featured on the forum
This specimen resembled several others of around the same size and perhaps the same species, which were pretty common in my February sample from the upper Yakima. Unfortunately, I misplaced the specimen before I could get it under a microscope for a definitive ID.
Troutnut is a project started in 2003 by salmonid ecologist Jason "Troutnut" Neuswanger to help anglers and
fly tyers unabashedly embrace the entomological side of the sport. Learn more about Troutnut or
support the project for an enhanced experience here.
Little Snowflies
Like most common names,"Little Snowfly" can refer to more than one taxon. They're previewed below, along with 5 specimens. For more detail click through to the scientific names.
Stonefly Family Capniidae
These are often called Little Snowflies.
These are the first stoneflies of the year to appear in most parts of the country, and often the first aquatic insects noticed by the angler. Their dark brown or black bodies are easy to spot against the snowbanks where they crawl around.
Capnia in the West and Allocapnia in the East are probably the most common genera of this prolific family.
Capnia in the West and Allocapnia in the East are probably the most common genera of this prolific family.
See 8 more specimens...
Stonefly Genus Allocapnia
These are often called Little Snowflies.
Allocapnia granulata is the most abundant Capniidae species in the East.
Stonefly Genus Capnia
These are often called Little Snowflies.
This is one of the most common genera of Capniidae.
Stonefly Genus Isocapnia
These are often called Little Snowflies.
Stonefly Genus Utacapnia
These are often called Little Snowflies.
See 1 more specimen...
Stonefly Species Utacapnia distincta
These are often called Little Snowflies.
See 1 more specimen...
Stonefly Species Capnia gracilaria
These are often called Little Snowflies.
Stonefly Species Allocapnia granulata
These are often called Little Snowflies.
Stonefly Species Isocapnia integra
These are often called Little Snowflies.