The fly boxes need more midges as I get ready for spring. So, over the weekend, I was working on small patterns down to size 30.
I find that nymphs down to sizes 20 and 22 are small enough in most situations. Dries down to sizes 24 and 26 also are more than sufficient. So, I tie some size 30 flies more for the challenge. But, sometimes, they really are the magic ticket.
Here are some flies I’ve been making. Materials lists are at the bottom.
TOP: CDC MIDGE, #30
- Hook: Gamakatsu C12-BM. This is a barbless hook with a large eye for easier tippet threading
- Body: Veevus 16/0, black
- Wing: CDC puff, natural
BOTTOM LEFT: DORSEY’S TOP-SECRET MIDGE, #24
- Hook: Orvis Big Eye Dry
- Thread: UTC 70 denier, black
- Ribbing: UTC wire, extra small, chartreuse
- Wing buds: Krystal Flash
- Thorax: Superfine dubbing, black
BOTTOM RIGHT: MIDGE EMERGER, #24
- Hook: Orvis Big Eye Dry
- Thread: UTC 70 denier, black
- Ribbing: UTC wire, extra small, silver
- Bead: Spirit River Hi-Lite glass bead, extra-small, Quicksilver
- Thorax: Superfine dubbing, black
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I find combinations of varying thread and wire and occasional clear beads are all you need.
That’s a great set of points. I suppose in the end they’re pretty simple ties. Do you usually indicator nymph with them–or tightline?
Good flies all. I tie them and fish them on the Swift. But not much surface activity there past couple weeks. Most success, for me, has been with soft hackle wet flies.
Good to hear from you, Gary!