How to Tie: The Midge Emerger

In this week’s “How to Tie” video feature, Geoff Johnston Fly-fishing and Fly Tying ties an emerger that every angler should be fishing this winter, the Midge Emerger.

Learn About This Fly:

Difficulty: Easy

Although there may be nothing as exciting during the winter months as dry fly fishing, it’s always best to come prepared with all the tools. Understanding your water is the most important part of producing fish, as this lets you accurately match the hatch and predict behavior based on weather. Certain times of the year call for different hatches and knowing the different life cycles of insects will allow you to make the most of your time on the water. Emergers are another tool in the fly box that should never be overlooked, and the Midge Emerger is a pattern no angler should be without during winter.

Like many midge flies, this one is simple and attainable by tyers of all levels. The most difficult part will be working with smaller hook sizes and not overcrowding the eye, but using the proper thread size will mitigate that problem. Even experienced tyers will make the mistake of overcrowding the hook eye so do not become frustrated if this happens on your first attempt. Take your time when tying the Midge Emerger to start and it will pay dividends on the back end.

Dropping down in tippet sizes is always a necessity when fishing these smaller patterns. Reading water and being able to identify if fish are eating on top or just under the surface can be very difficult. Bringing an arsenal of midges to the river during the winter is very important for that reason, as this will keep you prepared for any situation. The Midge Emerger is a fly that will reward you this winter and make those technical days seem a bit easier.

Ingredients:

• Hook: Size 18 – 22 Tiemco 2487 or 2488
• Thread: Black 8/0 Uni-Thread
• Thorax: Black (Hare or Zelon) Dubbing
• Wing: Black or Dark Grey CDC Feathers
• Secondary Wing: Pearl Krystal Flash

Now you know how to tie the Midge Emerger!

Video and ingredients courtesy of Geoff Johnston Fly-fishing and Fly Tying.