When grasshoppers are mentioned, most people will immediately think of the members of this very common family. These medium to large insects (12-80mm long) are named for their short, stout, horn-shaped antennae, which are usually less than half as long as the body. Another notable trait is the location of their large tympanic organs on the sides of the first abdominal segment. Males make a low buzzing song by rubbing the rough surface of the hind wing against the forewing. Grasshoppers can be found in all terrestrial habitats up to about 14,000 feet in elevation, but are most common in dry grasslands, farmlands, and deserts.
Importance:
When one thinks of terrestrials, grasshoppers are usually the first thing that comes to mind for fly fishers. The 'hopper' is a favorite of most die hard summer fly fishers and is highly anticipated. Hopper fishing can be some of the funnest fly fishing with a dry fly. During the summer, trout often expect large terrestrials to be part of their diet, so they reposition themselves in streams or lakes to take advantage of the large windfalls. Hoppers always arrive on the water by accident, never with intention. Hoppers wiggle and kick their legs vigorously when they are in the water until they are able to paddle to shore or are taken by a trout. Trout that feed on hoppers are usually not sippers, but will usually attack the hopper without abandonment. When trout make these aggressive splashes for hoppers, they are probably in a hurry to beat each other to the big bite.
Some 'experts' think that
key component 
of
hopper imitations are the legs. These successful patterns for hoppers capture
three main features: bulky body, dense wings, and dangling legs. It's best
if flies for these insects float with their bodies lowered into the water
rather than riding high above it. Exact imitations are not required, but a
pattern that gives a good silhouette of the natural. Hoppers come in yellow,
olive, or a shade halfway between the two. Orange and yellow and also popular
colors as well.
Patterns:
Letort Hopper, Dave's Hopper, Henry's Fork Hopper, Foam Hopper, Para Hopper, and Madame X in the above mentioned colors size 6-12.