NymphCarabou Caddis

The Carabou Caddis is a versatile and effective caddis larva imitation. Its body is made of caribou hair, which gives a lifelike, translucent look underwater. This pattern can be fished in a variety of ways, making it a valuable addition to any angler's fly box.

Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Carabou Caddis - Image source: Orvis
Image source: Orvis

Overview

This adult caddis imitation uses carabou hair (a soft variant of marabou or deer) for the wing, giving it a slightly wavy profile with more subtle motion than traditional elk hair. The body is typically dubbed and may include ribbing. Great for low-riding caddis patterns where movement and soft presentation matter.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Fall
Imitates: Caddis Larva

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 3769, size #12–#16
Thread: Olive UTC 70 denier
Body: Caribou hair
Ribbing: Small gold wire
Head: Peacock herl

Fishing Tips

Season

This fly can be used from spring through fall, when caddis are most active.

Presentation

Dead drift this fly near the bottom, or use it as a dropper off a dry fly.

When to Use

When you see fish feeding near the bottom, or during a caddis hatch.

Water Type

Effective in both stillwater and moving water.

Rigging Suggestions

Use a small split shot to get it down in deeper water or faster currents.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly sinks slowly, thanks to the natural buoyancy of caribou hair.