Dry FliesClassic Green Drake

The Classic Green Drake is a well-known and highly effective dry fly pattern. This fly is used to mimic the Green Drake mayfly, a significant source of food for fish, especially trout, during its hatch. Its close resemblance to the Green Drake's size and color makes it irresistible to fish.

Season
Summer
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Classic Green Drake - Image source: The Feather Bender
Image source: The Feather Bender

Overview

This traditional mayfly pattern features a dubbed or biot body, turkey or mallard wings, and a bushy hackle collar. The hook size and profile imitate large Drunella species during the spring and early summer hatches. Often tied on long-shank dry fly hooks with olive, brown, or green tones.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Moving Water
Summer
Imitates: Mayflies

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 100, size #10–#14
Thread: Olive Dun, 6/0
Tail: Moose body hair
Body: Olive dubbing
Wing: Grey mallard flank
Hackle: Grizzly and brown

Fishing Tips

Season

The best time to use the Classic Green Drake is during the summer when the Green Drake mayflies are hatching.

Presentation

Cast upstream and let the fly float naturally with the current.

When to Use

Use the Classic Green Drake when you notice fish feeding on the surface during a Green Drake hatch.

Water Type

This fly works best in moving water such as streams and rivers.

Rigging Suggestions

Use a 9-foot leader with a 5X tippet for best results.

Visibility & Floatation

The Classic Green Drake is a high floating fly with good visibility due to its size and the Grey mallard flank wings. A bit of floatant will help maintain buoyancy.