Midge / EmergersBiot Soft Hackle

A classic soft hackle wet fly with a modern twist—this pattern uses a slim, segmented biot body and flowing soft hackle to imitate emerging mayflies or midges. It's subtle, deadly, and effective in a wide range of water types and conditions.

Season
Fall, Winter
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Biot Soft Hackle - Image source: FlyFishFood
Image source: FlyFishFood

Overview

The Biot Soft Hackle combines the segmentation and slim profile of a turkey or goose biot body with the movement of a sparse soft hackle, often partridge or hen. It's typically tied in natural colors like olive, brown, or tan, making it an excellent choice for imitating emerging mayflies or caddis. This pattern is simple to tie and highly effective when swung through riffles or dead drifted just below the surface film.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Fall
Winter
Imitates: Mayfly nymphs

Materials

Hook: Firehole Sticks 633 Nymph & Wet - 12
Thread: 8/0 UNI-Thread Waxed Midge - Camel
Body: Nature's Spirit Stripped Wild Turkey Barred Biots - Callibaetis
Thorax: Natural Furs Dubbing - Fox Squirrel
Hackle: Whiting Brahma Wing Soft Hackle Pair
Tools Used: C&F Design Biot Pliers

Fishing Tips

Season

Fall, Winter

Presentation

Soft twitch or dead drift

When to Use

Cold, cloudy days

Water Type

Stillwater, Moving Water

Rigging Suggestions

Use with a floating line

Visibility & Floatation

Sinks, natural materials provide subtle presentation