Definition

Noun A small, soft-bodied insect belonging to the order Megaloptera, similar in appearance to but generally smaller than a dobsonfly. The aquatic larvae of this insect are commonly used as bait by anglers.

Usage

The term "fish fly" is used specifically to refer to this type of insect, particularly in the context of fishing and entomology. It names the insect itself, not the action of a fish flying.

Examples

• The fish fly hatched in large numbers near the lake.
• Anglers collect fish fly larvae from under stones in the stream.
• You can use a fish fly as effective live bait for trout.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in a collective sense when referring to seasonal hatches or swarms.
  • The fish fly hatch was so dense it looked like fog over the water.

Variants and Related Words

• Alderfly: A closely related insect in the same order (Megaloptera), often confused with or grouped under the general term "fish fly."
• Dobsonfly: A larger, related insect. The "fish fly" is notably smaller than a dobsonfly.

Synonyms

• Alder fly (common variant spelling)
• Fishfly (common compound form, often written as one word)

Notes on Meaning

This is a specific zoological term. It should not be confused with the verb phrase "to fish fly," which describes a fishing technique using artificial flies, or the imaginative concept of a "flying fish." The definition centers on the insect itself and its use as bait.

Noun

1. similar to but smaller than the dobsonfly; larvae are used as fishing bait