Midge / EmergersPeg's Midge

Peg's Midge is a simple yet highly effective pattern designed to mimic midge pupae during their emergence stage. Its slim profile, combined with a flash of color, makes it irresistible to trout.

Season
Winter, Spring
Difficulty
Beginner
Target Species
Trout
Peg's Midge - Image source: Orvis
Image source: Orvis

Overview

A minimalist pattern using a small curved hook, thread body, and fine wire ribbing. It sometimes features a sparse thorax of dubbing and a tiny wing tuft of Antron or CDC. Perfect for technical tailwater midge hatches.

Pattern Characteristics

Beginner Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Winter
Spring
Imitates: Midges

Materials

Hook: Tiemco TMC 100, size #20-#26
Thread: Veevus 16/0, dark brown
Tail: Dry-fly hackle, cream or white
Body: Peacock herl
Hackle: Dry-fly hackle, cream or white

Fishing Tips

Season

Winter and early Spring when midges are most active.

Presentation

Try fishing this pattern in the surface film during a midge hatch, or use it as a dropper off a dry fly.

When to Use

Use Peg's Midge when trout are refusing larger patterns, or when midges are the predominant hatch.

Water Type

This pattern is effective in both stillwaters and rivers.

Rigging Suggestions

Peg's Midge works well on a light tippet, either on its own or as part of a multi-fly rig.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly sinks and is best fished just below the surface. The Solarez Bone Dry UV resin adds shine and durability, making the fly more visible to trout.