NymphMicro Mayfly

The Micro Mayfly is a small, highly realistic nymph pattern that imitates mayfly nymphs. Its accurate profile and subtle coloration make it a go-to pattern when trout are selectively feeding on mayflies.

Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Micro Mayfly - Image source: AvidMax
Image source: AvidMax

Overview

A tiny, realistic mayfly nymph imitation tied with slim dubbing, fine wire ribbing, and Coq de Leon or hackle fiber tails. Often includes a resin-coated wingcase for durability and a natural sheen. Ideal on small hooks (#18–#22) for technical waters.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Fall
Imitates: Mayfly nymphs

Materials

Hook: Daiichi 1130

Thread: Veevus 16/0 Olive Dun

Bead: MFC Lucent Tungsten Blood Red

Ribbing: UTC Small Copper Wire

Tail and Legs: Natural Pheasant Tail

Abdomen: Stripped Peacock Herl

Thorax: Superfine Dubbing Olive

Flashback: Pearlescent Tinsel Medium

Backing: Turkey Tail Feather

Head Cement: Solarez Thick

Fishing Tips

Season

Very effective during mayfly hatches in spring and summer.

Presentation

Fish this pattern on a dead drift, either alone or as part of a nymph rig.

When to Use

Use when mayfly nymphs are present in the water, especially during a hatch.

Water Type

Works well in both stillwater and moving water environments.

Rigging Suggestions

Can be fished alone or as a dropper behind a larger nymph or dry fly.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly sinks and is designed to be fished subsurface. The natural colors blend well with the underwater environment, making it look like a real mayfly nymph to the fish.