dry fly

an artificial fly designed for use on the surface of the water.

Compare wet fly.

Origin of dry fly

First recorded in 1840–50

That a tapered line is most efficient and satisfactory for dry-fly casting is generally conceded.

Fishing with Floating Flies |Samuel G. Camp
The dry-fly streams, though they have increased of late years, are still and ever must be in a decided minority.

The Determined Angler and the Brook Trout |Charles Bradford
Every dry-fly angler, moreover, knows full well how soon constant casting and drying the fly tires and cramps the wrist and arm.

Chats on Angling |H. V. Hart-Davis
Mr. Dewar then mentions a dry-fly angler of great skill who is very successful in fishing in this manner with a big Alder.

Old Flies in New Dresses |Charles Edward Walker

The English split-cane rod for dry-fly work weighs about an ounce to the foot, rather more or rather less.

Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 2, Part 1, Slice 1 |Various

dry fly

angling

an artificial fly designed and prepared to be floated or skimmed on the surface of the water
(as modifier)dry-fly fishing

Compare wet fly