Dry FliesRusty Spinner
The Rusty Spinner is a classic dry fly pattern that effectively imitates the spent adult stage of mayflies. Its rust-colored body and spread-out wings mimic a dying mayfly, making it irresistible to trout.
Spring, Summer
Beginner
Trout
Overview
A spent-wing mayfly imitation in a rich reddish-brown color, featuring a slim dubbed body, split tails, and flat-profile wings made of hackle tips or synthetic fibers. It sits flush to the surface, imitating a spinner at rest after mating.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: #12–24 TMC 100SP-BL, 100, or 101
Thread: Rusty Brown 14/0 Veevus or 8/0 UNI
Tails: White or Rusty Brown Tailing Fibers
Abdomen: Rusty Brown Goose Biots
Wings: White McFlylon
Hackle: Badger Hackle
Thorax: Rusty Brown Super Fine Dubbing
Fishing Tips
Season
Spring, Summer
Presentation
Cast upstream and let it drift down naturally.
When to Use
Use during a mayfly hatch or spinner fall, typically in the morning or evening.
Water Type
Best in moving water, like streams and rivers.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish it solo or as part of a dry fly duo.
Visibility & Floatation
Its white poly yarn wings make it highly visible on the water's surface, and the fine and dry dubbing helps it float.
