Indicator Size Matters: Small, Medium, Large When to Use What?

Stillwater anglers often ask: does indicator size really matter? The answer is yes and picking the wrong size can cost you fish. This episode breaks down exactly when to use small, medium, or large indicators to match your conditions and fly setup.

Welcome to the Stillwater Edge Podcast, I’m your host Greg Keenan. Today we’re tackling a crucial but often overlooked topic: indicator size. Whether you’re fishing tiny chironomids on glassy water or chucking big balanced leeches in a wind chop, using the wrong indicator can mess up your presentation, kill sensitivity, and reduce hookups. I’ll walk you through the specific times and reasons to use small, medium, or large quick release foam indicators especially for BC style Stillwater setups.

Small Indicators: When Stealth Counts

• Ideal for calm conditions, clear water, and light flies

• Less water disturbance = better stealth

• Sensitive to subtle takes, great for spooky fish

• Natural drift in glassy water

• Best for spring/summer cruising fish near the surface

Medium Indicators: The Daily Driver

• Best all around choice for mixed conditions

• Handles light chop, heavier flies, and variable depths

• Supports tungsten beadheads and longer leaders

• Great visibility without being intrusive

• Saves time when switching flies or depth on the same rig

• Best option when you're unsure or exploring new water

Large Indicators: Built for Tough Conditions

• Use in strong wind, rough surface, or when visibility is critical

• Perfect for deep water, long leaders (20+ feet), and heavy flies

• Buoyant enough to suspend heavy rigs without sinking

• Easy to track in low light or at a distance

• Go big when fishing wind lanes, drop-offs, or bulky gear

Indicator size isn’t just preference it’s a performance tool. Match your size to the conditions, fly weight, and depth to maximize your chances on the water. Small = stealth, medium = balance, large = stability in rough weather. If this helped, follow the podcast, share it with your fishing crew, and hit me up with your indicator questions on Instagram or my website. As always tight lines, and I’ll see you on the water.