NymphSparkle Pupa

The Sparkle Pupa imitates a caddis pupa in its transitional stage, just before it emerges as an adult. The use of sparkle yarn gives it a translucent, lifelike appearance.

Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Difficulty
Advanced
Target Species
Trout
Sparkle Pupa - Image source: RiverKeeper Flies
Image source: RiverKeeper Flies

Overview

A classic caddis emerger designed by Gary LaFontaine, this pattern uses Antron yarn for both a trailing shuck and a bubble-like body. The dubbed thorax and sparse hackle add realism, while the Antron simulates the gas-encased pupae as it rises to the surface.

Pattern Characteristics

Advanced Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Fall
Imitates: Caddis Pupa
Variant of: LaFontaine's Sparkle Pupa

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 100, sizes #12-#18

Bead: Brass or Tungsten, Sized to Hook
Thread: UTC 70 Denier, Black
Tail: Sparkle Emerger Yarn, Florescent Green
Underbody: Hareline Dubbing, Caddis Green
Body: Sparkle Emerger Yarn, Florescent Green
Wing: Whitetail Deer Body Hair, Natural
Collar: Hareline Dubbing, Chocolate Brown

Fishing Tips

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Presentation

Dead drift it like a standard nymph, or twitch it to imitate a pupa rising to the surface to hatch.

When to Use

Use during a caddis hatch, or when trout are feeding on caddis pupae.

Water Type

Both stillwaters and moving waters.

Rigging Suggestions

Can be fished alone, or as part of a multi-fly nymph rig. A tungsten bead can be added to get it down deep.

Visibility & Floatation

The Sparkle Pupa is a sinking fly. The clear Antron yarn and UV resin give it a translucent appearance in the water, imitating the natural gas bubble of a rising caddis pupa.

Additional Videos