Midge / EmergersDeadpool Midge

The Deadpool Midge is a flashy and highly effective midge pattern that uses the color red to simulate the natural midge's blood-filled body. Its slim profile and bright color make it an ideal choice for picky trout in clear water.

Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Deadpool Midge - Image source: Midcurrent
Image source: Midcurrent

Overview

A flashy take on a standard midge, this pattern usually features red and black coloration, with a slim thread body, wire rib, and a small bead. Sometimes topped with a hint of flashy dubbing or a red glass bead for added pop. Simple, effective, and deadly in cold water.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Fall
Imitates: Midges
Variant of: Mercury Midge, Zebra Midge

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 2487, size #16–#20, 2X short curved shank for midges
Bead: Crystal pearl glass bead, midge size.
Thread: 8/0 or 70 Denier, black.
Body: Sulky Holoshimmer Metallic Thread, red.
Collar: Rabbit fur, black.
Ribbing: 8/0 or 70 Denier, black.
Thorax: Superfine Dubbing, rusty brown .

Fishing Tips

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Presentation

Traditional upstream and across, or downstream and across on a tight line.

When to Use

When midges are active and trout are selectively feeding on them.

Water Type

Effective in both stillwaters and moving waters.

Rigging Suggestions

Can be used as a dropper off of a larger dry fly or nymph, or fished alone on a traditional 9-foot leader.

Visibility & Floatation

The Deadpool Midge sinks below the surface and is highly visible due to its bright red color. The Solarez Bone Dry UV resin adds a shiny, durable shellback.