what is a dobsonfly
Ads. Dobsonfly, common name for any member of a family of often large, stout-bodied, net-winged aquatic insects. They are found nearly worldwide. Larvae are called hellgrammites or dobsons and are sometimes used as fishing bait. In midsummer, dobsonfly females lay eggs on leaves or rocks overhanging water, into which the larvae drop when hatched. The larvae are fierce predators, feeding on small aquatic animals; they are sometimes cannibalistic. The larvae remain in the water for up to three years, sometimes reaching a length of 5 cm (2 in).