Dry FliesWonder Wing Caddis
The Wonder Wing Caddis is a buggy, high-floating pattern designed to imitate large October caddis. It features a spun deer hair body and hackle combined with CDC underwings and synthetic wonder wings for an incredibly realistic profile. The pattern floats like a cork even in turbulent water.
Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
This pattern from Barry Ord Clarke combines traditional deer hair techniques with modern synthetic wings for a highly effective October caddis imitation. The CDC underwing adds movement and aids floatation while the wonder wings provide a realistic wing profile. The spun deer hair hackle creates a robust pattern that handles rough water. The moose hair antennae add realism without compromising durability.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Mustad R43, size #10
Thread: Dyneema 55
Body: Natural deer hair
Underwing: 2 natural CDC hackles
Overwing: Wonder wings
Feelers: 2 moose body hairs
Hackle: Spun natural deer hair
Fishing Tips
Season
Primarily effective during fall October caddis hatches from September through November. Peak activity typically occurs in late afternoon and evening.
Presentation
Fish with a dead drift or add subtle twitches to imitate a skittering adult caddis. Cast upstream or across and let the fly drift naturally through likely holding water. A downstream twitch can trigger explosive strikes.
When to Use
Best during active October caddis hatches when large orange caddis are visible on the water. Also effective as a searching pattern on fall afternoons even without visible hatch activity.
Water Type
Ideal for freestone rivers and larger streams where October caddis populations thrive. Works well in riffles, runs, and along foam lines where naturals congregate.
Rigging Suggestions
Use 9-foot leaders tapered to 3X or 4X tippet—the large fly and aggressive takes allow for heavier tippet. Fish as a single dry or use as a lead fly with a small nymph dropper.
Visibility & Floatation
Exceptional floatation due to spun deer hair construction. Rides high and visible even in broken water. The light-colored wonder wings make tracking easy in varied light conditions.
