Midge / EmergersKimball's Emerger
Kimball's Emerger is a deadly simple midge emerger pattern that effectively imitates chironomids transitioning from nymphs to adults in the surface film. This sparse pattern features a natural mallard flank shuck trailing behind, a macrame yarn wing for visibility, a black Superfine dubbed thorax, and a grizzly hackle collar wrapped sparse to keep the fly riding in the film. The minimalist design is fast to tie and foolproof on selective trout.
Year Round
Beginner
Trout
Overview
This Charlie Craven pattern from Charlie's Fly Box showcases the effectiveness of simple, well-designed emerger patterns. Kimball's Emerger follows the less-is-more philosophy that works so well for midge imitations. The mallard flank shuck suggests the trailing husk of an emerging insect, while the sparse grizzly hackle keeps the fly suspended in the surface film where trout expect to find struggling emergers. The macrame yarn wing provides visibility for the angler without adding bulk that might alarm wary fish.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 2488, #18-22
Thread: Veevus 14/0, black
Shuck: Mallard Flank, natural
Wing: Polypropylene Macrame Yarn, white or gray
Thorax: Superfine Dubbing, black
Hackle: Rooster Cape (or Midge Saddle), grizzly
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round as midges are present in most waters throughout the year. Particularly productive during winter and early spring midge hatches when trout feed heavily in the surface film.
Presentation
Fish with a dead drift in the surface film, focusing on slow water where trout sip emergers. The sparse hackle allows the fly to sit low in the water like a natural midge emerger. Cast upstream and let the fly drift naturally through rising fish.
When to Use
Select this pattern when fish are feeding on midge emergers in the surface film. Look for subtle sipping rises that indicate fish are taking emergers rather than adults. Effective when trout refuse higher-riding dry flies.
Water Type
Designed for moving water, particularly the slow pools, eddies, and tailouts where trout feed on midges. The pattern excels in technical water where fish have time to inspect flies carefully.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on a 9-12 foot leader tapering to 6X-7X tippet for delicate presentations. Can be fished solo or as a dropper behind a more visible dry fly like a Griffith's Gnat or Parachute Adams.
Visibility & Floatation
The macrame yarn wing provides excellent visibility for the angler while the sparse hackle and light hook allow the fly to fish properly in the film. Apply floatant sparingly to the wing only.
