Midge / EmergersSmokejumper

The Smokejumper is a great emerger pattern that can mimic a variety of insects. Its bright beadhead and CDC wing make it highly visible and attractive to fish.

Season
Year Round
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Smokejumper - Image source: AvidMax
Image source: AvidMax

Overview

A surface emerger that mimics midges or mayflies in transition. It features a split microfibbets tail, a sparse dubbing body, and a puff of CDC tied forward as a wing to mimic an emerging insect. It floats flush in the film, ideal for picky fish in slow water.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Moving Water
Stillwater
Year Round
Imitates: Mayflies, Midges

Materials

Hook: Fulling Mill 5065 barbless Czech Nymph.
Thread: UTC 70 Denier, yellow olive.
Rib: Ultra wire, extra-small, silver.
Wing case: CDC puff, light dun.
Thorax: Peacock herl.

Fishing Tips

Season

Year Round

Presentation

Fish it on the swing or dead drift.

When to Use

When you see fish feeding just below the surface.

Water Type

Effective in both moving water and stillwater.

Rigging Suggestions

Fish it as a dropper behind a dry fly or on its own on a light tippet.

Visibility & Floatation

The Smokejumper sinks but is highly visible due to its silver beadhead and white CDC wing.

Additional Videos