Midge / EmergersTwisted Midge
The Twisted Midge is a minimalist midge emerger pattern using Crinkled Zelon for both the body/wings and a black Zelon dubbing thorax. The twisted Zelon creates a segmented body appearance while the wing portion rises above the thorax for visibility. This simple yet effective pattern excels during technical midge fishing.
Year Round
Beginner
Trout
Overview
The Twisted Midge was developed at Blue Ribbon Flies as a quick-tie midge pattern that remains highly effective. The Crinkled Zelon serves double duty as both the body (twisted to create segmentation) and the wing. The glossosoma adult black dubbing provides contrast and creates the thorax bulge common to emerging midges.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 2488 or Umpqua U201, #20
Thread: Uni-Thread, 8/0, rusty dun
Body: Crinkled Zelon, medium dun (twisted for body, wing portion above)
Thorax: Zelon Dubbing, glossosoma adult black
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round during midge activity. Particularly productive during winter and spring when midges dominate and fish become extremely selective.
Presentation
Dead drift in the surface film. Focus on feeding lanes and current seams where midge emergers naturally collect. The pattern should ride with the thorax in the film.
When to Use
Best during midge hatches when fish are taking emergers. The simple profile works well when fish become selective to size and shape rather than detailed features.
Water Type
Ideal for tailwaters, spring creeks, and slow-moving freestone sections. Also effective on stillwater during calm conditions when fish are focused on midges.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 12-15 foot leader with 6X-7X tippet. Can be fished alone or as a dropper below a larger dry fly. The sparse design requires fine tippet for natural presentation.
Visibility & Floatation
The medium dun Zelon wing provides moderate visibility. The sparse design rides low in the film. May be difficult to track in low light conditions.
