The Best Anglers Never Stop Learning
The Best Anglers Never Stop Learning
Midges
Medium - 7-10 Min
Coldwater
This fly is tied in the smallest of sizes to fool big, tailwater trout. Because of the small size, it’s hard to fit everything you need on that hook. Due the space constraint, it’s best to stick with the recipe on this guy so that it comes out of your vise just like it looks on the video. This is a deadly little bug if presented correctly.
As far as variations go for this pattern, sticking with varying sizes and colors will be your best bet. The brown stripped peacock herl, and red tag seem to work exceptionally well. You can also try the herl and tag in any color combination you wish. Lots of times, especially in Winter, some funky colors can prove to get the job done better than traditional color combinations. You will want a variety of sizes at your disposal as well. Feel free to tie this bug even as small as size 26.
This pattern is ultra realistic, but has the added flash of the tag which helps to draw attention. The UV fly finish also gives this bug some durability. Durability can be an issue when you’re trying to get small bugs out of a fish’s mouth. Lots of times they’re ruined afterwards, but not this bug. The San Juan is one of the more technical tailwaters out West. The fact that this pattern is named for it, and excels when fishing it, gives a great deal of reassurance when you’re headed after some picky fish.
You’ll find the most success fishing this fly in a nymph rig with some heavier, bigger bugs above it. If all of you flies are on the smaller side, and don’t have much weight to them, you’ll want to incorporate split shot into your rig most of the time to get your bugs down. Subtle strikes are common with flies this small, so make sure you’re watching that indicator intensely. Don’t be afraid to go smaller if the fish aren’t cooperating.
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Region: West, Northwest, East, Southeast, Midwest
Midges Sizes: #14 - #26
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Copyright © 2003 – 2025 MidCurrent LLC, All Rights Reserved.