Midge / EmergersHerter's Bastard Midge
Herter's Bastard Midge is a simple but effective midge pattern. The thin body and delicate hackle imitate the small insects that trout feed on heavily, particularly in winter. Its small size makes it a great choice when nothing else seems to be working.
Year Round
Beginner
Trout
Overview
A vintage midge pattern with a slim thread body, sparse hackle, and minimal materials. Often tied with floss or peacock for the thorax and used in stillwaters or tailwaters when midges are hatching in calm conditions. Best fished near the surface film.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Dai-Riki 320, size #18-#22
Thread: Veevus, 10/0, red.
Trailing shuck: Wood-duck fibers.
Back/antennae: Bleached elk or deer hair, cleaned and stacked.
Hackle: Grizzly saddle hackle, midge size.
Fishing Tips
Season
Year Round
Presentation
Fish it on a dead drift under a small indicator or as a dropper off a larger dry fly.
When to Use
When trout are feeding on midges, which is often the case in winter and early spring.
Water Type
Effective in both stillwater and moving water.
Rigging Suggestions
Use a fine tippet to avoid spooking wary trout.
Visibility & Floatation
This fly is small and can be difficult to see, but an indicator can help. It is designed to sit in the surface film, imitating an emerging midge.
