Midge / EmergersBead Head Barr Emerger
A classic transitional mayfly emerger designed by John Barr, featuring a slim profile, trailing shuck, and subtle flash. The addition of a beadhead helps it get into the strike zone faster, making it ideal for fishing just below the surface during hatches.
Spring, Summer
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
The Bead Head Barr Emerger is a popular variation of the original Barr Emerger, designed to sink faster and get into the strike zone quickly. While traditionally tied to imitate Blue-Winged Olive mayflies, it's also tied in a range of colors and sizes to match different hatches, with some tiers adding flashback wingcases or sparse CDC for added movement and visibility during emergence.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: TMC 2487, sizes #16-#22
Thread: 8/0 UNI-Thread Waxed Midge - Iron Gray
**Bead **: Tungsten, Copper/Silver/Gold 3/32 (2.3mm)
Tail: Strung Chinese Saddle Hackle - Fiery Brown
Abdomen Mix: Super Fine Dry Fly Dubbing - Brown Olive
Abdomen #1: Super Fine Dry Fly Dubbing - Brown
Abdomen #2: Super Fine Dry Fly Dubbing - Olive
Wing Case/Legs: Strung Chinese Saddle Hackle - Gray
Thorax: Super Fine Dry Fly Dubbing - Adam's Gray
Wing Case Coating: Loon Fluorescing UV Clear Fly Finish
Fishing Tips
Season
Spring, Summer
Presentation
Light, stealthy drifts
When to Use
During peak hatch times
Water Type
Moving Water
Rigging Suggestions
Fish just below the surface, often in combination with a dry fly
Visibility & Floatation
Sinks slowly, copper bead adds subtle flash and weight
