Dry FliesKlipspringer Cripple Mayfly
The Klipspringer Cripple Mayfly is an elementary cripple/stillborn mayfly pattern designed for super selective trout. The defining feature is the use of klipspringer hair for the wing, though regular deer hair can be substituted. This pattern imitates a mayfly struggling to emerge from its shuck—a vulnerable stage that selective trout find irresistible.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
Klipspringer is a small African antelope whose hair has unique properties for fly tying—hollow and buoyant with excellent stacking characteristics. Barry Ord Clarke uses this exotic material to create a wing that provides superior floatation compared to standard deer hair. However, the pattern works well with regular deer hair if klipspringer is unavailable. The cripple design sits low in the film with the trailing shuck representing the nymphal case the mayfly is shedding.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Mustad C49S, size #10–#16
Thread: Sheer 14/0, grey or olive
Trailing Shuck: White para post or Z-lon
Tail: Wood duck flank fibers
Abdomen: Turkey biot
Wing: Klipspringer hair (or deer hair)
Thorax: Peacock herl
Hackle: Chocolate dun or grizzle
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective during spring, summer, and fall mayfly hatches. Particularly productive during Baetis, PMD, and other mayfly emergences when trout become selective.
Presentation
Fish in the surface film with a dead drift. Position yourself to cast upstream or across to rising fish. The fly should drift naturally with no drag—even micro-drag will put off selective trout feeding on cripples.
When to Use
Best when trout are rising but refusing standard dun patterns. Cripples are especially effective during heavy hatches when fish key in on the easy meals of stuck emergers. Also productive at the tail end of hatches when fewer naturals are emerging.
Water Type
Ideal for smooth glides, slow pools, and flat water where trout can inspect flies carefully. Spring creeks and tailwaters are prime water for this pattern.
Rigging Suggestions
Use 12-foot or longer leaders tapered to 5X–7X tippet. Presentation must be delicate—pile casts or reach casts help achieve drag-free drifts. A longer tippet section aids in natural drift.
Visibility & Floatation
Rides low in the surface film like a natural cripple. The klipspringer wing provides excellent visibility to the angler while the trailing shuck anchors the rear in the film. Apply floatant only to the wing.
