Midge / EmergersCopper Zebra Midge
The Copper Zebra Midge is a go-to fly in most anglers' box, imitating a midge pupa during its emergence. Its copper wire body adds weight, helping it sink faster, while the flashy ribbing attracts attention.
Year Round
Beginner
Trout
Overview
A simple twist on the classic Zebra Midge, this version swaps the typical silver ribbing for copper wire to give the fly a warm, subtle flash. Tied on a curved midge hook with a black thread body, silver or copper tungsten bead, and fine copper rib, this pattern is easy to tie and deadly effective when midges are present. It's a go-to for winter and early spring.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 2487, size #16–#20
Bead: Copper, 1/16-inch
Thread: 6/0, light brown
Tail: Krystal Flash, copper, one strand
Rib: Ultra Wire, small or extra small, copper
Wing: Diamond Braid, pearl midge
Thorax: Peacock-eye herl
Fishing Tips
Season
Year Round. Midges hatch year-round but are most prolific in the winter months. The Copper Zebra Midge can be a great pattern when nothing else seems to be working.
Presentation
Dead drift in the water column. Can be used as a dropper off a dry fly or indicator.
When to Use
When trout are keying on midges or when you see midge clusters on the water's surface.
Water Type
Effective in both moving water and stillwater.
Rigging Suggestions
Use as part of a multi-fly nymph rig with split shot or a small bead to help it sink.
Visibility & Floatation
The copper body of this fly helps it sink quickly. Its small size and slim profile make it less visible, but the shiny ribbing can attract attention.
