Midge / EmergersBlood Midge

The Blood Midge is a simple, effective pattern that imitates the midges that trout feed on heavily. Its red color and slim profile make it irresistible to trout.

Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Difficulty
Beginner
Target Species
Trout
Blood Midge - Image source: Discount Flies
Image source: Discount Flies

Overview

This pattern mimics the bright red coloration of oxygen-rich midge larvae. It's tied on a curved hook with red thread or red wire as the main body material, often finished with a peacock thorax or dubbing hotspot. Keep the fly slim and use a subtle taper for realism. Great for stillwater or tailwater applications.

Pattern Characteristics

Beginner Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Fall
Imitates: Midges

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 2487, size #16–#20
Thread: Red Veevus 14/0
Body: Red superfine dubbing
Ribbing: Fine silver wire
Shell: Solarez Bone Dry UV resin

Fishing Tips

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Presentation

Fish this fly on a dead drift, either on its own or as part of a multiple-fly rig.

When to Use

When trout are selectively feeding on midges.

Water Type

Stillwater and rivers.

Rigging Suggestions

Rig on a 9 foot leader with 5-6X tippet on a floating line.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly sinks below the surface and is easily visible due to its bright red color.