Midge / EmergersSplit Foam Back Emerger
A highly visible, buoyant mayfly emerger developed by Charlie Craven to sit perfectly in the surface film with a split foam wingcase. This pattern mimics the vulnerable stage of a hatching mayfly with just the right balance of realism and floatation—perfect for picky trout in slow water.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Advanced
Trout
Overview
Charlie Craven's Split Foam Back Emerger is a low-riding mayfly emerger tied with a slim thread body, a small trailing shuck (often Z-lon or Antron), and two narrow strips of foam tied in at the back and pulled forward over the thorax. The foam mimics emerging wings and helps the fly ride perfectly in the surface film. A sparse thorax dubbing and a curved emerger hook complete the silhouette. It's a highly effective pattern for technical water during mayfly hatches.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: #16-18 Tiemco 3761
Thread: Brown 30 Denier Nanosilk
Tail: Woodduck Gold Mallard Flank
Rib: 5X Tippet Material
Body: Brown Olive Hareline Squirrel Hair Dubbing
Casing: Black Goose Biots and Yellow Razor Foam
Thorax: Brown Olive Hareline Squirrel Hair Dubbing
Legs: Woodduck Gold Mallard Flank
Fishing Tips
Season
Summer, Fall
Presentation
Dead drift near the surface film during spinner falls
When to Use
Fish during early to mid-morning trico spinner falls when trout are selectively sipping
Water Type
Moving Water, Stillwater
Rigging Suggestions
Fish solo on a long leader or as a dropper behind a small dry fly for visibility
Visibility & Floatation
Rides just below or in the film; low visual footprint with subtle shimmer from the bead and resin; bead adds mild weight, allowing it to sink slowly and stay in the strike zone
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