The Zebra Midge is a simple yet highly effective fly pattern that imitates small aquatic insects, particularly midge pupae. Its slender, segmented body and bead head are key to its success.
How to Tie It
The Zebra Midge is typically tied on a small hook (sizes 16–22). A brass or tungsten bead is slid onto the hook to add weight and mimic the insect’s head.
The body uses just two materials: thin thread and fine wire. The thread (often black or red) forms a slim, even base, while the wire (usually silver or copper) is wound over it to create a segmented look.
Despite its simplicity, tying a Zebra Midge requires precision—especially in achieving a neat body and clean wire wraps.
What It Mimics
As the name suggests, the Zebra Midge imitates midge pupae, a primary food source in many waters. Its slim, segmented body and bead head closely resemble the shape and translucency of these insects.
Where to Use It
Midge pupae thrive in both still and moving waters, making the Zebra Midge effective in diverse fishing scenarios. It excels in clear water where fish scrutinize prey, thanks to its realistic profile.
Though popular for trout, this fly also works for many other species that feed on midges.
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How It’s Tied
The Hellgrammite fly is tied on a long-shank hook, typically in sizes 4 to 8. A lead wire underbody provides weight and segmentation. The body is built with black or dark brown chenille or dubbing to replicate the larva’s segmented appearance. Black or brown rubber legs mimic the natural larva’s multiple limbs.
What It Mimics
This pattern replicates the Dobsonfly larva, commonly called the Hellgrammite. These large, segmented larvae are a protein-rich food source for many fish species.
Where It’s Used
The Hellgrammite fly excels in rivers and streams where these larvae thrive, particularly in fast-flowing, rocky areas. Fished near the bottom, it mimics the larva’s natural crawling behavior, making it irresistible to predatory fish.
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How It’s Tied
The Inch Worm fly is typically tied on a small hook (sizes 12–18). Its body is made from thin, elastic materials like ultra chenille or flexi-floss in green or yellow to match natural inchworms.
The material is wrapped to create a segmented body, replicating the inchworm’s shape and movement. A simple thread head completes this minimalist pattern.
What It Mimics
This fly imitates the inchworm, the larval stage of geometer moths. Found near water, inchworms often fall in and become a key food source for fish, especially in spring and early summer.
Where It’s Used
The Inch Worm fly excels in streams and rivers, particularly near overhanging vegetation where inchworms drop into the water.
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