Dry FliesRoyal PMX Parachute Madam X
The Royal PMX Parachute Madam X combines the classic Royal Coachman color scheme with the proven Madam X silhouette and a parachute hackle for improved visibility and flotation. This pattern features a yearling elk tail, a peacock herl body with a red floss band reminiscent of the Royal Coachman, a yearling elk overwing, white poly yarn parachute post, brown rubber legs, and parachute-style brown hackle. The result is an eye-catching attractor that suggests stoneflies, hoppers, and other large terrestrials.
Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
This Charlie Craven pattern from Charlie's Fly Box represents a creative mashup of several classic fly fishing traditions. The pattern builds on the proven PMX (Parachute Madam X) foundation while incorporating the Royal Coachman's iconic peacock and red color scheme that has attracted trout for over a century. The yearling elk provides the right texture and flare for both tail and wing without being too coarse. The red floss band wrapped in the middle of the peacock body creates the distinctive "Royal" look that serves as a visual hotspot. The parachute hackle design allows the fly to land softly and provides excellent visibility for the angler through the white post, while the rubber legs add movement and suggest struggling prey.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 5262, #6-14
Thread: Magpie Thread 72D or UNI 8/0, brown
Tail: Yearling Elk
Body: Peacock Eye Herl
Band: UNI Floss, red
Thorax: Peacock Eye Herl
Wing: Yearling Elk
Post: Polypropylene Macrame Yarn, white
Legs: Rubber Legs (fine round), brown
Hackle: Rooster Cape, brown
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during summer and fall when terrestrials are abundant and trout are looking up for larger prey. Also works as a general attractor during stonefly activity.
Presentation
Fish with a dead drift along banks, in foam lines, and near structure where terrestrials fall into the water. The rubber legs provide movement even when the fly is sitting still, making it effective on slower presentations.
When to Use
Select this pattern when trout are feeding aggressively on larger surface prey or when you need an attractor pattern that combines visibility with proven trigger elements. The Royal color scheme often produces when other attractors fail.
Water Type
Designed for moving water, particularly freestone streams, meadow creeks, and rivers where hoppers and stoneflies are common. Works well in pocket water, riffles, and along grassy banks.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on a 9-foot leader tapering to 3X-4X tippet for adequate turnover. Can be used as a dry-dropper anchor fly by trailing a nymph 18-24 inches below. The parachute design provides enough flotation to suspend smaller nymphs.
Visibility & Floatation
The white parachute post provides excellent visibility for the angler while the peacock and elk materials maintain natural appearance to the fish. The parachute hackle and elk wing provide reliable flotation in varied water conditions.
