Dry FliesPMX Fly

The PMX (Parachute Madam X) Fly is a versatile and highly effective dry fly that is a favorite among fly anglers. This pattern is an amalgamation of a few different flies, combining the best attributes of each to create a fly that is irresistible to fish. It can be tied in a variety of colors to mimic different insects.

Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
PMX Fly - Image source: Blue Ribbon Flies
Image source: Blue Ribbon Flies

Overview

The Parachute Madam X is a bushy attractor dry fly combining a parachute post with rubber legs and a hair wing. It's often tied with a peacock or dubbed body and is great for riffles and fast runs.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Fall
Imitates: Terrestrials, Stoneflies
Variant of: Madam X

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 5212, sizes #04–#12
Thread: Black UNI 6/0
Tail: Deer Hair or Elk Hair
Body: Red UNI Single Strand Floss
Wing: Deer Hair or Elk Hair
Thorax: Peacock Herl
Legs: Natural Medium Grizzly Barred Rubber Legs
Wing Post: White McFlylon
Hackle: Grizzly or Brown Whiting High and Dry Rooster Cape

Fishing Tips

Season

This fly is best used in the Spring, Summer, and Fall months.

Presentation

Cast upstream and allow the fly to float naturally downstream.

When to Use

Use the PMX Fly when you notice trout feeding on the surface or when stoneflies or terrestrials are most active.

Water Type

This fly is most effective in moving water.

Rigging Suggestions

PMX Fly can be used on its own or as an indicator fly for a dropper setup.

Visibility & Floatation

The fly is highly visible due to its foam body and deer hair wing. It floats high in the water due to its foam body and hackle.

Additional Videos