NymphPoxyback Callibaetis

The Poxyback Callibaetis is a highly effective mayfly nymph imitation that displays a realistic profile in the water. It's poxyback gives it a natural, glossy shell-like appearance, making it irresistible to trout.

Season
Spring, Summer
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Poxyback Callibaetis - Image source: The Fly Crate
Image source: The Fly Crate

Overview

This stillwater nymph imitates the Callibaetis mayfly. It's tied with natural or synthetic dubbing for the body, turkey biot wingcases, and a bead head for weight. The signature “poxyback” is a coating of UV resin or epoxy over the wingcase to add durability and a lifelike shine.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Imitates: Mayflies

Materials

Hook: #12–18 Tiemco 200R
Thread: Olive UTC 70
Tail: Gray ostrich herl
Body: Scud Shrimp Olive SLF Dubbing
Rib: Pearl Krystal Strand
Gills: Gray ostrich herl
Casing: Pheasant tail or turkey wing
Legs: Natural partridge
Glue: Loon UV Thick Fly Finish

Fishing Tips

Season

Ideally, use this fly during the spring and summer seasons when mayflies are most active.

Presentation

The Poxyback Callibaetis works best when fished as a nymph under an indicator or as part of a multi-fly setup.

When to Use

Use this fly during a mayfly hatch when trout are feeding subsurface.

Water Type

This pattern is effective in both stillwater and moving water environments.

Rigging Suggestions

Tie this fly on a dropper off a dry fly or use it as the point fly in a nymphing rig.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly is designed to sink and imitate a nymph. The glossy shellback increases visibility under water.