Fly fishers visiting a lake for the first time wonder where they should start. Where are the most likely interception points for a close encounter of a trout kind? Creatures of habit, trout are drawn to structure like any fish. During your next visit to local pet shop take note of how tropical fish relate to structure such as rocks and weeds. The attraction is almost magnetic. This is no different in rivers, streams and lakes. For the stillwater fly fisher drop offs are a primary structure and should be explored in a methodical manner. The depth change afforded by a drop off area provides security to foraging trout as they cruise the near depth shoals. Careful observation on clear water lakes reveals trout favor certain areas of the drop off area and as creatures of habit frequent these areas. One such area to search out is an inside corners of a drop off. On those lakes were water clarity is an issue pay attention to color differences and take up position where light water meets dark deeper water signifying a drop off. A good bathymetric map detailing the underwater features of a lake is an invaluable tool.

To probe a promising looking drop off position the boat, float tube or pontoon boat in a perpendicular manner so the fly can be retrieved parallel to the drop so the presentation covers a greater area to the fish. During times such as during the summer doldrums working a pattern such as a dragon nymph or leech up the side of the drop is a sound tactic.