Midge / EmergersShop Vac
The Shop Vac is a simple but effective midge pattern that is designed to sink fast and imitate a variety of midge pupae. Its slender profile and flash ribbing make it an ideal choice when trout are selectively feeding on midges.
Year Round
Beginner
Trout
Overview
The Shop Vac is a small, fast-sinking nymph pattern ideal for clear water and picky trout. It features a slim, dark thread or dubbed body, a peacock herl thorax, wire ribbing for durability, and a soft feather or CDC wingcase. Topped with a gold bead, it gets down quickly and imitates small mayfly nymphs or emerging midges. It's simple, effective, and easy to tie in bulk.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: TMC 2487 Emerger Hook - #16-#22
Bead: Fulling Mill Tungsten Beads - Gold - 2.0mm
Thread): UTC Ultrathread 70 Denier - Black
Body: Pheasant Tail - Natural
Wire: UTC Ultra Wire - Small - Copper
Wing: Antron Yarn - Fl. Bright White
Fishing Tips
Season
Can be used year-round, but especially effective during midge hatches.
Presentation
Present it on a dead drift, either under an indicator or high-stick nymphing.
When to Use
Use when trout are feeding on midges, both in the film and deeper in the water column.
Water Type
Versatile and can be used in both stillwater and moving water.
Rigging Suggestions
Can be used in a tandem rig with another midge pattern, or as a dropper off a dry fly.
Visibility & Floatation
The silver bead and ribbing add flash and help the fly sink fast, making it visible in deeper water.
