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WD-40

Hook: TMC 5488 #20 Sizes 18 to 24.
Thread: Olive 8/0.
Tail: Olive Hungarian Partridge fibers.
Body: Tying Thread.
Thorax: Olive Krystal Dubbing.
Wingcase:Olive Hungarian Partridge fibers.

WD-40 - Fly Tying Tutorial WD-40Hook: TMC 5488 #20 Sizes 18 to 24.Thread: Olive 8/0.Tail: Olive Hungarian Partridge fibers.Body: Tying Thread.Thorax: Olive Krystal Dubbing.Wingcase:Oli...

Adult Midge

Hook: TMC 101 #20 sizes 20 to 24.
Thread: Black 8/0.
Body: Tying Thread.
Collar: Black Dry Fly Rooster Saddle or Cape.
Wing: White Z-Lon.
Head: thread.

Adult Misge - Fly Tying Tutorial Adult MidgeHook: TMC 101 #20 sizes 20 to 24.Thread: Black 8/0.Body: Tying Thread.Collar: Black Dry Fly Rooster Saddle or Cape.Wing: White Z-Lon.Head: thread.

Mosquito

Hook: TMC 100 SPbl # 16 Sizes 12 to 18.
Thread: Black 8/0.
Tail: Grizzly hackle fibers.
Abdomen: Tow quils one black one white.
Hackle: Grizzly Dry Fly Rooster Saddle.
Wings: Two Grizly feather tips. "V" Shape.

Mosquito - Fly Tying Tutorial MosquitoHook: TMC 100 SPbl # 16 Sizes 12 to 18.Thread: Black 8/0.Tail: Grizzly hackle fibers.Abdomen: Tow quils one black one white.Hackle: Grizzly Dry Fly R...

Skittering Z-loon Midge

Hook: TMC 2487 or 2488 #20 Sizes 18 to 22.
Thread: Olive, 8/0.
Shuck: White Z-lon.
Wing: White Z-lon.
Hackle: Grizzly rooster cape.

Blue Ribbon Skittering Midge- Fly Tying Tutorial Skittering Z-loon MidgeHook: TMC 2487 or 2488 #20 Sizes 18 to 22.Thread: Olive, 8/0.Shuck: White Z-lon.Wing: White Z-lon.Hackle: Grizzly rooster cape.

https://youtu.be/qHoG-oz8p54

Midge Emerger - Fly Tying Tutorial Midge EmergerHook: TMC 2487 or 2488 #20 Sizes 18 to 22.Thread: Black 8/0.Thorax: Dark SLF Dubbing.Wing: Black or Dark Grey CDC Feathers.Secondary Wing: Pearl...

The Foamulator vs. The Stimulator: Unveiling the Dynamic Duo of Dry Flies

Fly fishing enthusiasts, gather around, because today we're diving into the fascinating world of dry flies, specifically two titans of the trade—the Foamulator and the Stimulator. These patterns, born from the minds of innovative fly tiers, have become staples in the fly boxes of anglers worldwide. Let's unravel the magic behind these captivating flies.

The Stimulator: A Timeless Classic

The Stimulator, credited to Randall Kaufmann but with roots dating back to the 1940s, is a versatile fly that defies easy categorization. Acting as an attractor pattern, it doesn't imitate any specific insect but can mimic a range of aquatic delicacies, from stoneflies to caddis flies.

"As a searching dressing, it is hard to beat the Yellow Stimulator. It looks like so many things trout eat that they're almost always glad to get one," notes Dave Hughes in his book, Essential Trout Flies. This sentiment rings true for many anglers who have witnessed the effectiveness of the Stimulator in diverse conditions.

With its built-in flotation, the Stimulator rides high on the water, making it an excellent choice as an indicator for droppers or emergers. Its adaptability and visibility make it a go-to pattern even when stoneflies aren't visibly present.

The Foamulator: A Modern Twist on Tradition

Now, enter the Foamulator, a foam-infused iteration of the classic Stimulator pattern. This modern variant introduces key enhancements, including a foam back, rubber legs, and an Ice Dub body. These additions elevate its performance, providing superior floatation, lifelike motion, and an irresistible profile.

James from InTheRiffle demonstrates tying the Golden Foamulator, a color choice that imitates a golden stonefly and serves as a potent attractor pattern. The Foamulator's extra foam ensures it rides high and stays highly visible—a crucial advantage in enticing strikes.

Choosing Between the Two

When it comes to selecting between the Foamulator and the Stimulator, consider the fishing conditions and the behavior of your quarry. The Stimulator's legacy and adaptability make it a reliable choice in various scenarios. On the other hand, the Foamulator, with its foam-backed innovation, shines when stoneflies are on the menu, thanks to its unmatched floatation and alluring aesthetics.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Dry Fly Game

In the dynamic realm of fly fishing, innovation meets tradition, giving rise to flies like the Stimulator and its modern counterpart, the Foamulator. Whether you're casting to rising trout in a serene mountain stream or navigating turbulent waters, having these flies in your arsenal can make all the difference. So, tie on one of these marvels, observe the water's surface come alive, and let the dance of dry flies begin. Happy fishing!

Hook: TMC 200R BL #4 or Terrestrials hook Sizes 4 to 10.
Thread: Fluorecent Orange 3/0 or 6/0.
Tail: Natural Elk Hair Body.
Back: Purlple 3mm foam.
Abdomen: Orange SLF dubbing and One grizzly rooster dry fly saddle.
UnderWing: Gold pearl Krystal Flash.
Wing: Blanched Elk hair body.
Legs: Yellow Medium Rubber Legs.
Thorax: Fluorecent Green hares dubbing and One Black rooster dry fly saddle.

- Fly Tying Tutorial FoamulatorHook: TMC 200R BL #4 or Terrestrials hook Sizes 4 to 10.Thread: Fluorecent Orange 3/0 or 6/0.Tail: Natural Elk Hair Body.Back: Purlple 3mm foam.Abd...

The Hippie Stomper: A Fly Fishing Marvel by Andrew Grillos
Fly fishing enthusiasts, listen up! If you haven't yet experienced the magic of the Hippie Stomper, you're in for a treat. Crafted by the skilled hands of Umpqua Signature Tyer Andrew Grillos, this fly is not just a piece of tackle; it's a work of art that has set the waters ablaze.

Unrivaled Origin:
Let's dive into the origins of the Hippie Stomper. Born on the Gunnison River in the 1990s, this foam creation was initially inspired by a humorous encounter between Grillos's friend and mentor, Chris Mortimer. Picture this: beginners from California, wide-eyed and curious, asked Mortimer about catch-and-release techniques. His deadpan response? "Drag the fish up on the sand, give it the old hippie stomp, yank the hook out, and kick it back to the water." Hilarity ensued, and the name Hippie Stomper was born.

Foam Evolution:
The Hippie Stomper has undergone years of fine-tuning, reaching its peak during Grillos's guiding days in Chile in 2008-2009. It is a foam reincarnation of the Elk Hair Humpy, designed to float superbly and be extra visible, especially for older anglers. The fly's durability and visibility make it a top choice for the Driftless Area, where it's become a staple, thanks to Mat and Geri at the Driftless Angler.

Tying the Stomper:
Tying the Hippie Stomper requires a touch of finesse. Grillos aimed for simplicity without sacrificing effectiveness. The foam body, available in a spectrum of colors, gives it unsinkable buoyancy. Sizes range from 12 to 16, with larger variations for different conditions. While not the easiest tie, it's manageable for the intermediate-tier, offering versatility and effectiveness.

Fishing Finesse:
Now, let's talk strategy. The Hippie Stomper shines in the "hopper and dropper" rig, but don't limit its potential. Grillos's favorite colors, in order, are purple, pink, black, red, and royal. Sizes 14 and 16 are go-to choices, but don't shy away from 12 or even 18 when the situation demands. May through the end of the season is prime time, especially when terrestrial insects dominate. Cast close to the banks, drop a nymph if needed, and let the Hippie Stomper work its magic.

The Driftless Connection:
The marriage between the Hippie Stomper and the Driftless Area is a match made in fishing heaven. This versatile fly, designed for the discerning angler, has become a best-seller at Driftless Angler, and rightly so. Its visibility, combined with the eager risers of Driftless streams, makes for an irresistible combination.

In the Words of Grillos:
According to Grillos, the Hippie Stomper is not just a fly; it's an experience. Its name may induce laughter, but its effectiveness is no joke. As one tough fly for one tough man, it has stood the test of time and changing waters.

Conclusion:
In the world of fly fishing, where innovation meets tradition, the Hippie Stomper is a testament to the creativity and passion of fly tiers like Andrew Grillos. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice exploring the art of fly fishing, don't overlook the Hippie Stomper—it's not just a fly; it's a story, a legacy, and above all, a reliable companion on the water. So, gear up, tie one on, and let the Hippie Stomper dance on the surface, creating ripples of excitement in its wake. Happy fishing!

Hook: TMC 3761 or Nymph hook 2X, Sizes #12- #18 (Sizes 6 to 18).
Thread: Black 70 denier or 6/0 or 8/0.
Tail: Moose body hair or Elk Hair.
Overbody: 2 layers of foam - 2mm black on top, 1mm green as an underbody underneath.
Underbody: Flashabou.
Wing: Z-lon dun or white.
Hackle: Grizzly.
Legs: Fine round rubber, barred.

This meticulous recipe ensures the Hippie Stomper retains its enticing allure and effectiveness. Tie it with care, and let it become the secret weapon in your fly fishing arsenal. Happy tying and tight lines!

Hippie Stomper - Fly Tying Tutorial Hippie StomperHook: TMC 3761 Or Nymph hook 2X # 12 Sizes 6 to 18.Thread: Black 70 denier or 6/0 or 8/0.Tail: Moose body hair or Elk Hair.Overbody: 2 layers o...

Lawson's Spent Partridge Caddis: A Trout Temptation
The Spent Partridge Caddis, born from the vise of Mike and Sheralee Lawson, stands as a remarkable fly in the world of fly fishing. This pattern serves a dual purpose, mimicking both a spent caddis after laying eggs, nearing the end of its life, and a vibrant, healthy adult. Its simplicity in tying is matched by its effectiveness, providing a fresh profile to discerning fish that might have grown wary of other patterns. It's worth noting that leaving the hackle untrimmed can work well for imitating a skittering adult, while trimming the bottom creates a lower floating profile.
Taking just a couple of minutes to tie, this fly adds valuable diversity to your fly box. With caddis hatching in abundance, having a variety like the Spent Partridge Caddis can make a difference, especially when the more traditional Elk Hair Caddis might not cut it.
Mike Lawson's creation has successfully enticed some of the most cunning trout, particularly on the challenging waters of the Henry's Fork. Its effectiveness isn't confined to a single river; it has proven its worth on various streams across the nation. Building a row of these in your fly box is a wise investment for your summer fishing endeavors.
Originally developed for the Henry’s Fork in Last Chance, Idaho, this pattern has become a staple on many other streams. Its silhouette is compelling, and its visibility for the angler is noteworthy. The wing is tied down flat against the body, and winding the hackle in a way that showcases the peacock herl is a key step. Trimming it both on the top and bottom produces a fly that sits flush on the water. A.K. Best provides a visual guide on tying the spent caddis in a linked video.
The Spent Partridge Caddis earns the spotlight as the fly of the month, a testament to its effectiveness. While other caddis patterns like the X Caddis and Iris Caddis might be personal favorites, this fly, with its representation of spent wings, has a unique place in your fly box. As caddis hover with wings spent after egg-laying, this pattern excels in imitating that stage. After all, any fly featuring Hungarian partridge is bound to attract the interest of discerning fish.
The tan body is a personal preference, but selecting a color that best matches the natural caddis can enhance its allure. Add a few Spent Partridge Caddis to your arsenal, and watch them work their magic throughout the summer.

Hook: TMC 100 # 12 or standard dry fly hook Sizes 12-20.
Thread: 8/0 Gray
Abdomen: Peacock Herl.
Wings: Matched Hungarian Partridge Body Feathers.
Hackle: Brown and Grizzly Rooster Dry Fly Feathers.
Thorax: Peacock Herl.

Spent Partridge Caddis - Fly Tying Tutorial Spent Partridge CaddisHook: TMC 100 # 12 or standard dry fly hook Sizes 12-20.Thread: 8/0 GrayAbdomen: Peacock Herl.Wings: Matched Hungarian Partridge Body F...

MORRISH MOUSE WALKING MOUSE
Dominando las Aguas con el Morrish Mouse

La creación de Ken Morrish, el Morrish Mouse, revolucionó la pesca con mosca. Es un sueño lanzarlo, tiene un perfil tentador y es el favorito de muchos pescadores. La belleza radica en su simplicidad, utilizando tres materiales que probablemente ya tengas en tu kit de atado de moscas.

Este patrón no es solo un placer visual; es un intérprete probado en aguas quietas tanto de día como de noche. Atarlo es un placer, ofreciendo una gran práctica para trabajar y hilar el pelo de ciervo. Perdonador en diseño, incluso un intento fallido no disuadirá su capacidad para flotar y atraer peces.

El origen del Morrish Mouse se remonta al espíritu inventivo de Ken Morrish en 2002. Su objetivo era claro: crear una mosca con masa mínima, lanzable con una caña de cinco o seis pesos. El resultado: un patrón de tres pasos que se ha convertido en una sensación global.

¿Por qué funciona? La acción baja y sputtering mientras la rata atraviesa rápidos provoca ataques agresivos. Las truchas a menudo atacan como si quisieran destrozarlo en lugar de simplemente comerlo. La clave no es el realismo; es la irresistible acción de natación.

Blair recomienda un líder corto y pesado para pescar con ratones, tanto para darle la vuelta a la mosca como para traer rápidamente la trucha a la mano. Un líder de 0X de 6 a 8 pies es adecuado para lanzar hacia los bancos de césped, troncos caídos, alisos y otros obstáculos a lo largo de la orilla. No hay nada delicado en esta pesca y un tippet pesado te ahorrará perder media docena de patrones de ratón caros o que consumen tiempo al día.

Para lanzar patrones grandes de ratones de manera más eficiente, usa una caña de 8 wt, pero en un arroyo pequeño de 30 a 50 pies de ancho, una caña de 8 wt parece exagerada y es fácil lanzar de orilla a orilla y hacer reparaciones rápidas con una caña de 9 pies de 6 o 7 wt.

Ratones por el Mundo.
Este ratón no está limitado a Alaska; es un éxito en Labrador, Pennsylvania, el Medio Oeste y las Montañas Rocosas. El Morrish Mouse es una mosca todoterreno y para todas las estaciones.

La emoción se intensifica en agosto durante la migración de desove del salmón, especialmente en pequeños arroyos de tundra. El Morrish Mouse, con su líder corto y pesado, es una combinación letal. Lanza a través de la corriente, deja que la corriente haga su magia y prepárate para ataques explosivos.

El Morrish Mouse tiene un legado que trasciende las fronteras. En Nueva Zelanda, es la estrella durante los 'años del ratón', un fenómeno vinculado a los ciclos de semillas de haya. Pescar con ratones no es solo una técnica; es una experiencia, desde el Yellowstone hasta el río Yampa.

Ya seas un pescador experimentado o un principiante, el Morrish Mouse ofrece una emocionante danza con las truchas. Su efectividad no se trata solo del aspecto, sino del movimiento, un disparador para los instintos agresivos. Entonces, prepárate, ata un Morrish Mouse y alista para una aventura en el agua.

Gancho: TMC 8089 # 4 tamaños 4 al 02.
Hilo: Negro 6/0.
Cola: Tira de conejo.
Cuerpo: Pelo de ciervo natural hilado y recortado.
Espalda: Espuma de 6 mm.

Morrish Mouse or Walking Mouse - Fly Tying Tutorial Mastering the Waters with Morrish MouseKen Morrish's brainchild, the Morrish Mouse, revolutionized fly fishing. It's a dream to cast, sports an enticing prof...

The Royal Humpy: A Trout Magnet for Turbulent Waters
Fly Tying for Beginners
Classic Vintage Tying Dry Flies

In the realm of fly fishing, where precision meets creativity, the Humpy fly stands out as a true icon. Crafted from ingenuity and born on the fly benches of California in the 1940s, it has since become a staple in every serious angler's arsenal, endorsed by legends like Lefty Kreh.

Origin and Evolution: A Fly with Many Faces
Trace its roots back, and you'll find the Humpy's lineage in the Tom Thumb, a 19th-century fly adorned with clumps of deer hair. Jack Horner, a Californian angler, transformed it into the first iteration of the Humpy we know today. As it journeyed to Montana in the 1950s, it earned the moniker "Goofus Bug," while Wyoming anglers affectionately named it the Humpy, a title that stuck.

Imitating the Unseen: The Versatile Attractor
The Humpy doesn't imitate a specific insect; instead, it presents a buggy allure that mirrors various aquatic delicacies. Its resilience in fast waters, attributed to buoyant deer hair, made it a darling of the Truckee River, where its originator, Jack Horner, tested its mettle.

Variations Galore: A Palette of Possibilities
From the classic Yellow Humpy mimicking stoneflies to the Elk Hair Humpy's innovative twist by Jack Dennis in the '60s, this fly has seen creative adaptations. Charlie Ridenour's Royal Humpy brought visibility akin to the Royal Wulff, while the Adams Humpy catered to gray mayfly hatches. The Black Humpy, born in the '60s, doubles as a beetle imitation in overcast conditions.

Modern Innovations: A Double Take on Success
In 1981, a vise mishap by Joe Allen birthed the Double Humpy, proving that sometimes mistakes lead to perfection. This accidental variant added another dimension to an already effective pattern.

Tying the Humpy: A Delicate Art
Despite its reputation as a challenging tie, mastering the Humpy's proportions ensures a dozen well-crafted flies. Its variations, be it short and fat or long and slim, offer choices to match specific fishing conditions.

Enduring Legacy: A Time-Tested Trout Enticer
Developed in the 1930s by Jack Horner, the Humpy's original caddis imitation purpose has evolved into a versatile attractor. Whether navigating rough or slow waters, the Humpy's high-riding, bushy profile and buoyancy make it a magnet for trout seeking a tempting surface meal.

In Conclusion: A Flybox Essential
In the cacophony of fly patterns, the Humpy's distinctive silhouette, adaptability, and rich history make it an enduring choice. From Lefty Kreh's endorsement to its evolution in diverse variants, the Humpy continues to reign as a go-to fly for anglers chasing trout in turbulent waters. It's not just a fly; it's a timeless piece of angling artistry.

Hook: TMC 100 os standard Dry Fly #12 sizes 10 to 18.
Thread: Red 6/0.
Tail: Elk Hair / Moose Hair / Deer Hair.
Andomen: Red Floss / Tying Thead / Dubbing.
Wing: White Calf body hair / Calf Tail.
Hackle: Rooster Saddle Dry Fly tow feathers, one Natural Brown one Grizzly.

Royal Humpy - Fly Tying Tutorial Hook: TMC 100 os standard Dry Fly #12 sizes 10 to 18.Thread: Red 6/0.Tail: Elk Hair / Moose Hair / Deer Hair.Andomen: Red Floss / Tying Thead / Dubbing.Wing:...

Royal Wulff
Fly Tying for Beginners
Vintage Tying Dry Flies

The Timeless Elegance of the Royal Wulff: A Fly Fisher's Essential
In the rhythmic dance between angler and river, where the delicate art of fly fishing unfolds, the Royal Wulff emerges as an enduring protagonist. Born from the fertile mind of angling luminary Lee Wulff in the pulsating 1930s, the Wulff series stands not just as a set of flies but as a transformative journey in the realm of fly fishing.
Picture this: Catskill rivers, 1930. Lee Wulff, dissatisfied with the meager offerings of traditional dry flies, embarked on a quest to birth a new breed, a breed tailored for the voracious American trout. His partnership with Dan Bailey, a fellow fly enthusiast and science teacher, resulted in the Ausable Gray, Coffin May, and Bucktail Coachman—flies that would change the game.
These weren't just flies; they were high-floating, full-bodied wonders, donning hair wings and tails. They danced on the water, enthralling trout and salmon in the spirited currents. Lee Wulff, unimpressed by the slim and "anemic" English and Catskill dry flies, pioneered a robust, stocky style—a style that would later be known as the Wulff series.
Enter the Royal Wulff, a descendant of the Royal Coachman and an absolute charmer among fly patterns. Its adoption of hairwing patterns, a trend initiated in the late 1920s, has a tale of its own. Q. L. Quackenbush, a Beaverkill Trout Club member, independently tweaked the Royal Coachman pattern for a sturdier wing. While Wulff is often lauded for the Royal Wulff, Quackenbush's influence is an unspoken chord in its melody.
The Royal Wulff, with its peacock herl body, segmented with red silk or floss, a white wing, and brown or red-brown hackle, is a visual symphony. This dry fly, often gracing size 8–16 hooks, was crafted to emulate large mayflies but, in its versatility, weaves stories of terrestrial insects.
Wulff's philosophy was unconventional—encourage variation, celebrate evolution, and eschew rigid recipes. Enter Dan Bailey, a fly whisperer in Montana, echoing the Wulff philosophy to the western fly anglers. The Wulff series, especially the Royal Wulff, etched its place as a timeless companion in anglers' fly boxes worldwide.
And yet, a gentle debate simmers about its origin. Lee Wulff's claim is strong, but Quackenbush's influence is undeniable. Nevertheless, the Royal Wulff's effectiveness is the unspoken truth; its buoyancy, visibility, and unique charm make it a perennial favorite.
So here we are, in the hallowed grounds of fly fishing, where the Royal Wulff reigns supreme. It's not just a fly; it's an emblem of innovation, a salute to the dance between angler and river. As you tie that Royal Wulff to your line, know that you hold more than feathers and hooks; you hold a legacy, a piece of angling history that continues to ripple through the currents of time.

Hook: TMC 100 os standard Dry Fly #12 sizes 10 to 18.
Thread: 6/0 Black.
Tail: Elk Hair / Moose Hair / Deer Hair.
Rib: French Tinsel Small Wire Gold.
Andomen: Peacock Herl and Red Floss.
Wing: White Calf body hair / Calf Tail.
Hackle: Rooster Saddle Dry Fly tow feathers, one Natural Brown one Grizzly.

Royal Wulff - Fly Tying Tutorial Royal WulffFly Tying for BeginnersVintage Tying Dry FliesThe Timeless Elegance of the Royal Wulff: A Fly Fisher's EssentialIn the rhythmic dance between angl...

Peacock Caddis
Fly Tying for Beginners
Vintage Tying Dry Flies

Unveiling the Elegance of the Peacock Caddis: A Dance on the Water
In the enchanted world of fly fishing, where each cast is a step in a riverine ballet, certain patterns stand out as virtuoso performers. Today, let's unravel the allure of the Peacock Caddis—a creation that began as a whispered secret in the hands of Al Troth in 1957.
The Origins: A Creation of Art and Necessity
Al Troth, a maestro in the fly tying symphony, birthed the Peacock Caddis to grace the waters of Loyalsock Creek in Pennsylvania. Crafted as an all-season wonder, this fly pays homage to the elusive "Caddis," an order of insects akin to the seductive charm of moths.
A Versatile Maestro: Fishing Nationwide
What makes the Peacock Caddis a virtuoso? Its versatility. This pattern, resembling an adult caddis in distress, can be flaunted in every corner of the country, waltzing through the surface tension of still waters or navigating the tumultuous cadence of rapid runs.
The Dance Moves: Fishing Techniques
In the lively tempo of faster, choppier waters, the Peacock Caddis flaunts its buoyancy and structure. Let it pirouette through longer, rougher runs. In slower stretches, impart a subtle dance, mimicking the adult caddis struggling on the surface or elegantly "skating" to the bank.
Fashion Tips for the Trout: Matching the Hatch
When it comes to dry fly patterns, consider this a haute couture affair. Match the color and size meticulously to the hatch. But here's a style tip often overlooked: watch out for the shadow your leader casts; it might just be the difference between spooking a trout or a successful dance.
Behind the Scenes: Tying the Peacock Caddis
Picture this: a fly tying session where simplicity meets effectiveness. The Peacock Caddis is the star of the show—a beginner's delight, yet a timeless classic in every angler's repertoire. It's a piece of art that's easy to create and a joy to behold.
The Drama Unfolds: On the Riverbank
Imagine a hot August day by the river. What's on the menu for trout? Not just your usual suspects, but perhaps a feast of horse or deer flies. The Peacock Caddis struts confidently, mimicking not only caddisflies but attracting trout with its peacock herl allure.
A Legacy in Feathers and Fur
As you tie on the Peacock Caddis, remember you're not just attaching feathers and fur to your line. You're inviting a legacy—a pattern that has stood the test of time and enticed trout in countless rivers.
Conclusion: The River's Ovation
So, fellow angler, next time you dance your fly across the water, let it be the Peacock Caddis. For in its mimicry and simplicity lies the elegance that brings not just a catch but the river's ovation to your skill and artistry. Happy fishing!

Thread: Black 6/0.
Body: 2 or 4 strands of peacock herl.
Rib: French tinsel small wire Gold.
Wing: Black Deer Hair.
Hackle: One black and one grizzly dry fly rosster saddle hackle.

Peacock Caddis - Fly Tying Tutorial Peacock CaddisFly Tying for BeginnersVintage Tying Dry FliesUnveiling the Elegance of the Peacock Caddis: A Dance on the WaterIn the enchanted world of fly f...

Unlocking the Secrets of Matt's Midge: A Tiny Wonder in the World of Fly Fishing

In the frosty embrace of March 1999, as snow blanketed the earth, Matt Miles, sharing a moment with his roommate and a few beers in their basement, gave birth to Matt's Midge. An answer to the scarcity of visible midge adult patterns, this creation became a boon for anglers, especially in challenging conditions.

Origins and Innovation
Midges, especially in sizes 20 and smaller, posed visibility challenges. While the Griffith's Gnat was effective, Matt's Midge took the stage as a single midge pattern. Its distinctive poly split wing elevated above the hook solved the visibility problem even in the tiniest sizes. Matt's experience guiding in Colorado, dealing with discerning clients and tricky midge hatches, fueled the innovation.

A Versatile Maestro
Designed for western tailwaters, Matt's Midge found unexpected success in the East, particularly during winter. Its single midge design, combined with enhanced visibility, proved invaluable. Whether in the serene waters of the San Juan, Bighorn, Green River, or the spirited currents of the South Platte, Matt's Midge demonstrated its prowess.

The Art of Mimicry
What makes Matt's Midge special? Its adaptability. Acting as a single midge pattern, it also doubles as a cluster when tied in larger sizes. The trout, enticed by its silhouette during a midge hatch, often perceive it as a delectable cluster of insects, leading to exciting takes.

The Importance of Visibility
Dry fly fishing's thrill lies in witnessing a fish engulf your fly. Matt's Midge brings this joy by ensuring visibility, a crucial factor in successful fly fishing. As Matt Miles puts it, "The most exciting thing about dry fly fishing is seeing the fish eat your fly, but if you can't see your fly, you're not catching fish."

Tying Your Own Matt's Midge
For those keen on crafting their own Matt's Midge, the recipe is straightforward. Use a Dai-Riki #310 hook in size 22, emphasizing a ring or straight eye. Black 6/0 Danville thread forms the body, and the delicate emergent wing comprises white Zelon, Antron, or EP Trigger Point Fibers. A rooster saddle feather provides the hackle.

In Conclusion
You don't need a separate midge pattern for each of the 17,000 species in North American waters. Matt's Midge, with its versatile design and visibility, emerges as a multipurpose solution. The distinct wing mimics the adult midge returning to lay eggs, making it a reliable choice for various midge species.

Final Thoughts
Next time you find yourself on the water, facing a midge hatch challenge, tie on Matt's Midge. Let it dance on the surface, visible and tempting. In the world of tiny wonders, Matt's Midge stands tall, a testimony to innovation born from necessity.

Hook: TMC 101 #20 sizes 20 to 24.
Thread: Black 8/0.
Body: Tying thread.
Wing: white z-loon.
Hackle: Dry Fly Rooster Saddle or Cape.

Matt's Midge - Fly Tying Tutorial Unlocking the Secrets of Matt's Midge: A Tiny Wonder in the World of Fly FishingIn the frosty embrace of March 1999, as snow blanketed the earth, Matt Miles,...

Midge Mastery: Celebrating the Small Marvels of Fly Fishing

In the vast realm of fly fishing, the Midge stands as a diminutive yet formidable player, born from the diverse family Chironomidae within the order Diptera. Despite the staggering diversity of over a million dipteran species, midges often linger in the shadows for many fly anglers, overshadowed by the glamour of mayflies and caddisflies.

Midges in the Wild: More Than Just Tiny Flies

For those unacquainted with the angler's perspective, midges might be familiar as "lake flies," infamous for hatching in overwhelming numbers. These tiny creatures make bridges slippery and shorelines practically unusable during their summer surge. Their larvae, a staple for Lake Winnebago's renowned Sturgeon population, further underscores their ecological importance.

Adult Midges: Not Your Average Mosquito

Contrary to a common misconception, midges are not mosquitoes or biting gnats; hence, their family name, "non-biting midges." As adults, their primary goal is reproduction, contributing to the next generation. Harmless and small, you'll often spot these flies around rocks in slackwater areas or engaging in aerial mating swarms, signaling an imminent midge egg-laying event.

Cracking the Midge Code: Challenges and Rewards

Midges are often considered the Rodney Dangerfield of aquatic insects, receiving less attention than their larger counterparts. Yet, their importance cannot be underestimated, and the ability to fish these small flies is a mark of a well-rounded angler. Dropping a midge larvae or weighted pupa below a dry fly or nymph in a double rig can yield surprising results.

Tackling Midge Fishing Challenges: Light Tackle and Delicate Strikes

One common mistake among midging fly fishers is using heavy tackle. Fine, sensitive tackle enables the use of smaller flies and delicate tippets. Delicate strikes and light, constant rod pressure are crucial to prevent breaking the tippet or tearing the hook out. Landing a large trout quickly and safely requires finesse, and the soft strike is an art in itself.

Midge Fly Imitations: Size and Presentation Matter

When it comes to midge fly imitations, correct size and proper presentation take precedence over texture, shape, and color. For smaller flies ( #18 to #28), the design of the hook can influence effectiveness. Short-shank hooks are preferable for larger fish, offering a better bite and more wire strength.

In the world of fly fishing, where every insect tells a story, the Midge emerges as a resilient protagonist, weaving its narrative through the currents and eddies of rivers and lakes. As anglers, let's embrace the challenge of midge fly fishing, for in its subtlety lies the true essence of the sport.

Hook: TMC 101 #20 sizes 20 to 24.
Tail: mix grizzly and brown hackle fibers.
Body: muskrat fur.
Collar: Dry Fly Rooster Saddle or Cape mix grizzly and brown.
Head: thread.

Midge - Fly Tying Tutorial Midge Mastery: Celebrating the Small Marvels of Fly FishingIn the vast realm of fly fishing, the Midge stands as a diminutive yet formidable player, born fro...