Midge / EmergersMole Midge
The Mole Midge is Charlie Craven's dipteran adaptation of the venerable Mole Fly, which he considers the greatest emerger pattern he has ever fished. This elegant pattern features a slim polish quill body designed to hang through the surface film, with CDC and fluoro fiber wings protruding above the surface. The design perfectly replicates midge surface emergence with the body suspended below while the wings remain visible to both fish and angler.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
This Charlie Craven pattern from Charlie's Fly Box adapts his proven Mole Fly emerger design specifically for midge imitations. The polish quill body creates the slim, segmented profile of natural midge pupae, while the UV resin coating adds durability and a subtle sheen without adding bulk. The dual wing system of CDC and fluoro fiber provides both natural appearance and visibility. The CDC creates a realistic wing bud profile while the fluoro fiber topping helps the angler track the fly in varying light conditions.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 2487, #18-24
Thread: Veevus 16/0, black
Body: Polish Quill (or stripped peacock quill), color of choice
Glue: Solarez UV Resin, thin
Wing: CDC, natural dun
Wing 2: Fluoro Fiber, white
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round as midges are present in most waters throughout the year. Particularly productive during late fall, winter, and early spring when midge activity peaks.
Presentation
Fish with a dead drift, allowing the slim body to hang vertically through the surface film while the wings remain above. The fly should sit in the meniscus rather than riding high on the surface.
When to Use
Select this pattern when trout are sipping midge emergers in the surface film. Look for subtle, rhythmic rises that indicate fish feeding on helpless emergers trapped in the surface tension.
Water Type
Effective in both moving water and stillwater. In rivers, target slow pools, eddies, and flat tailouts. In lakes, fish along wind lanes and calm areas where midges concentrate.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on a 9-12 foot leader tapering to 6X-7X tippet. The slim profile requires delicate presentations. Can be fished solo or as part of a multi-fly rig with a more visible indicator fly.
Visibility & Floatation
The fluoro fiber topping provides visibility for the angler while the CDC helps the fly sit properly in the film. The pattern is designed to fish partially submerged, so avoid heavy floatant application.
