Dry FliesOlive X2 Caddis
The Olive X2 Caddis is an olive variation of Craig Mathews' X2 Caddis designed to match Brachycentrus and other olive-bodied caddis species. The Zelon dubbing body creates a realistic segmented appearance while the deer hair wing provides floatation. The trailing shuck completes the emerger profile for this versatile caddis pattern.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
The Olive X2 Caddis was developed at Blue Ribbon Flies to match the olive-bodied caddis species common during Mother's Day and other spring caddis hatches. The Brachycentrus olive dubbing specifically matches the grannom and apple caddis that trout key on during early season emergences. The X2 design combines emerger and dry fly characteristics.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 100 or Umpqua U002, #14-18
Thread: Uni-Thread, 8/0, tan
Shuck: Straight Zelon, caddis amber
Rib: Krystal Flash, pearl
Body: Zelon Dubbing, brachycentrus olive
Wing: X Caddis Deer Hair, natural
Head: Zelon Dubbing, hydropsyche tan
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective from April through September during various caddis emergences. Particularly productive during Mother's Day caddis hatches and other spring/early summer caddis activity.
Presentation
Dead drift or with slight skittering action to mimic emerging caddis. Cast upstream or across and let the fly drift naturally, adding occasional twitches during the retrieve.
When to Use
Best during olive caddis emergences, particularly Brachycentrus species. Try when fish are refusing high-profile patterns but continue rising to emergers.
Water Type
Ideal for riffles, runs, and pocket water where caddis emergences occur. Particularly effective on freestone rivers with diverse caddis populations.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 9-12 foot leader with 5X tippet. The buoyant design floats well even in broken water. Consider as part of a dry-dropper rig during heavy hatches.
Visibility & Floatation
The natural deer hair wing provides good visibility and floatation. Pattern rides in the film with the shuck trailing below. May need periodic drying in extended use.
