Shim-Fly Lifelike Fly Lures – Deadly for New Zealand Trout & Perch
The Shim-Fly Lifelike Insect Lures are expertly crafted fly fishing baits, designed to imitate the appearance and behaviour of surface insects. With translucent wings, shimmering bodies, and detailed textures, they attract feeding trout and perch in rivers, lakes, and streams across New Zealand.
Shim-Fly Key Features and Benefits
This 40-pack fly lure set comes housed in a compact waterproof box. Each lure features a 12mm body and 5.7mm profile, replicating mayflies and other aquatic insects commonly found in NZ waters.
Why Choose Shim-Fly Lures?
- ✅ Realistic reflective wings and detailed fly body attract visual feeders.
- ✅ Perfect for surface-feeding trout and freshwater perch.
- ✅ Easy to cast with both beginner and pro-level fly gear.
- ✅ Effective in clear water conditions where presentation is key.
- ✅ Supplied in a foam-slit waterproof fly box for safe and dry storage.
Product Details & Specifications
- Materials: Synthetic fibre, translucent PET wings, resin head
- Quantity: 40 lures per box
- Box Type: Waterproof hard case with slotted foam lining
- Body Length: 12 mm
- Body Height: 5.7 mm
- Hook: #10 Barbed fine-gauge fly hook
- MPN: SMFML40PK
Designed for NZ Waters: Perfect for use in trout streams, backcountry rivers, stillwaters, and lake margins.
Versatile Use: Suitable for dry fly fishing setups or slow-sink rigs depending on your presentation needs.
Best Use Locations in New Zealand
Habitat Type | Shim-Fly Effectiveness | Target Species | Best Time |
---|---|---|---|
Clearwater Rivers | ✔ Excellent | Brown & Rainbow Trout | Spring to Autumn |
Lakes & Stillwaters | ✔ Good | Trout & Perch | Summer & Late Afternoon |
Canals | ✔ Moderate | Trout & Salmon | Calm Days Year-Round |
Backcountry Streams | ✔ Excellent | Wild Trout | Clear Skies, Daylight Hours |

Shim-Fly Realism in Detail
Why the Wings and Flash Matter
Each Shim-Fly features iridescent wings and a glistening body that mimics how real insects catch the light. The contrast between the dark body and red head draws aggressive strikes from trout, especially in clear water.
Best Use Cases:
- Daytime fishing during insect hatches
- Shallow riverbeds with rising trout
- Stillwater edges where perch gather near reeds
Why It Works:
- The reflective wings create surface shimmer that mimics real flies.
- Compact hook profile ensures better hook-ups with light-biting trout.

Product Summary
The Shim-Fly Lifelike Insect Lures are designed for surface-feeding trout and perch across New Zealand's freshwater habitats. Their natural appearance and lightweight profile make them ideal for delicate presentations during calm weather and active insect hatches.
These lures excel in areas where fish feed visually, especially where insect activity is high. Whether casting into rivers, lakes, or stream margins, the Shim-Fly offers reliable performance with finesse.
Top New Zealand Locations Where Shim-Fly Lures Perform Best:
- Tongariro River (Taupō): Excellent for dry fly presentations during summer evening hatches.
- Waikato Spring Creeks: Clear and calm waters where spooky trout demand subtle presentations.
- Lake Aniwhenua: Cast near reed edges where perch feed aggressively in still conditions.
- Tekapo Canal Inflows: Target cruising trout using dead-drift or twitch retrieves.
- Ahuriri River (Otago): Great for stalking wild brown trout in shallow runs with minimal surface disturbance.
For anglers seeking a dependable, visually appealing surface lure, the Shim-Fly is a must-have addition for any fly box targeting New Zealand's finicky freshwater species.