Dry FliesAl's Trico
Al's Trico is one of the most effective Trico patterns ever developed, created by Al Miller of Pennsylvania. Despite being tied in incredibly small sizes down to #24, this pattern remains relatively easy to construct, making it accessible to tiers willing to work at the midge scale. When trout become selective during Trico spinner falls, this simple yet elegant pattern consistently outperforms more complex imitations.
Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
Designed by Al Miller, this pattern succeeds because of its simplicity and correct proportions at tiny sizes. The slightly oversized hackle (#20 on a #24 hook) provides better flotation and visibility without spooking fish. Many anglers prefer light dun hackle over the original grizzly for a more natural appearance. The pattern can be fished as-is or with the bottom hackle trimmed to sit flush in the film. A clever trick is to leave the tag end of your tippet untrimmed to suggest the natural's long split tail.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Standard dry-fly hook (TMC 100 or similar), #20–#24
Thread: Black, 8/0 or 70 denier (also forms abdomen)
Hackle: Grizzly or light dun, sized for #20 hook
Thorax: Black dry-fly dubbing (Wapsi Super Fine or similar)
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during summer and early fall when Trico hatches occur. Peak activity is typically from late July through September, with spinner falls happening in the early morning hours.
Presentation
Cast upstream or up-and-across to rising fish and achieve a drag-free drift. Trico spinner falls often create pod-feeding situations where trout establish rhythmic feeding lanes. Time your cast to place the fly in the fish's feeding rhythm.
When to Use
Best during Trico spinner falls, which typically occur in early morning as temperatures warm. Look for clouds of tiny mayflies over the water and trout rising steadily in flat water. The hatch is often over by mid-morning.
Water Type
Excels on slow-moving pools and flats where Trico spinners collect. Spring creeks, tailwaters, and the smooth sections of freestone streams are ideal. Avoid fishing this pattern in broken water where it will be lost in the surface disturbance.
Rigging Suggestions
Use a long, fine leader of 12-15 feet tapered to 6X or 7X. The tiny fly and selective fish demand delicate presentations. A reach cast helps prevent drag on the critical first few feet of drift.
Visibility & Floatation
This is a high-floating dry fly that rides on its hackle tips. The small size makes it challenging to track, so watch the general area where you cast and set on any rise. Trimming the bottom hackle allows the fly to ride in the film for ultra-selective fish.
