Euro NymphsEspresso Midge
A slim midge pattern in dark brown tones designed for euro nymphing techniques. The simple thread body with copper ribbing creates a realistic segmented appearance that imitates both midge larvae and pupae. UV coating adds durability and a subtle shine that attracts trout in clear water conditions.
Year Round
Beginner
Trout
Overview
Developed by Fly Fish Food as a simple yet effective midge imitation for technical euro nymphing presentations. The dark espresso coloration mimics natural midge larvae found in many freestone and tailwater systems. The jig hook design ensures the fly rides hook-point up, reducing snags while maintaining excellent hook-up ratios. Material substitutions are minimal due to the pattern's simplicity, but any dark brown thread and copper wire will work.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Fulling Mill 5125 Jig Force Short Barbless, size #20
Bead: Hanak Metallic+ Slotted Tungsten, brown, 2.0mm
Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed Thread 12/0, dark brown
Body: Thread, dark brown
Ribbing: UTC Ultra Wire, copper, x-small
Thorax: Ice Dub, UV Brown
Coating: Loon UV Clear Fly Finish - Flow
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round as midges hatch in all seasons, including winter. Particularly productive during winter months when midges are the primary food source available to trout. Also excellent during spring and fall when midge activity peaks in tailwaters.
Presentation
Fish with euro nymphing techniques using a tight line and minimal weight. Cast upstream or at a 45-degree angle, maintaining contact with the fly throughout the drift. The light weight makes it ideal as a dropper below a heavier point fly. Short-line nymphing in shallow riffles and runs produces excellent results.
When to Use
Best when trout are feeding on midges near the bottom in clear water conditions. Effective during overcast days and low-light conditions when midge activity increases. Works well when no visible surface activity is present but fish are feeding subsurface. The small profile makes it ideal for pressured fish or technical presentations.
Water Type
Most effective in moving water including tailwaters, spring creeks, and freestone streams. Particularly productive in shallow runs, riffles, and pocket water where midges are abundant. Works well in clear water where trout can see the subtle profile. Less effective in fast, turbulent water due to its light weight.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 10-12 foot leader with 5X-6X tippet for technical presentations. Use as a dropper 12-18 inches below a heavier euro nymph or perdigon pattern. In competition fishing setups, fish as the point fly with an even lighter pattern as dropper. Minimal weight is needed due to the tungsten bead; avoid adding split shot when possible.
Visibility & Floatation
Sinks quickly despite its small size due to the tungsten bead. The slim profile cuts through current efficiently, reaching feeding zones in shallow to moderate depths. The dark brown coloring is highly visible to trout but not alarming in natural settings. UV thorax provides subtle attraction without appearing unnatural. The wire ribbing creates slight segmentation and flash.
