Midge / EmergersSyl's Midge

A timeless, minimalist midge pattern that imitates tiny pupae or adults in the surface film. Syl's Midge is especially effective in slow, clear water where trout are keyed in on small midges and demand a natural, low-profile presentation.

Season
Winter
Difficulty
Advanced
Target Species
Trout
Syl's Midge - Image source: FlyFishFood
Image source: FlyFishFood

Overview

A minimalist midge emerger designed by Sylvester Nemes, this pattern is tied with just a few essential materials: fine thread, sparse dubbing or floss for the body, and a soft hackle collar (usually starling or hen). It's fished in the surface film and is especially effective during midge hatches. The simplicity of the tie requires precision and attention to proportion.

Pattern Characteristics

Advanced Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Winter
Imitates: Midges
Variant of: **Hook**: Hanak H 200 BL Stillwater & Nymph Hook - 16\n**Thread**: 8/0 UNI-Thread Waxed Midge - Purple, Black, Red\n**Body**: Nature's Spirit Bleached Dyed Peacock Sticks - Purple, Peacock Eye Sticks, Red\n**Soft Hackle**: Whiting Red Label Hen Cape - Purple\n**Hackle**: Whiting Brahma Wing Soft Hackle Pair, Whiting Red Label Hen Cape - White Dyed Fiery Brown

Materials

Hook: Hanak H 200 BL, sizes #12-#18
Thread: 8/0 UNI-Thread Waxed Midge - Purple, Black, Red
Body: Peacock Sticks - Purple, Peacock Eye Sticks, Red
Soft Hackle: Whiting Red Label Hen Cape - Purple
Hackle: Whiting Brahma Wing Soft Hackle Pair, Whiting Red Label Hen Cape - White Dyed Fiery Brown

Fishing Tips

Season

Winter

Presentation

Delicate drift near the surface

When to Use

Cold, calm days with midge activity

Water Type

Stillwater

Rigging Suggestions

Use with a long, fine tippet

Visibility & Floatation

Floats near the surface, subtle and difficult for fish to detect