The Zebra Midge is a classic and effective pattern and has consistently proven its worth in enticing finicky trout over the years. With its simplicity to tie its a must-know for every fly tier, and a great starting point for beginners.

In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process of tying the Zebra Midge and share insights on when and how to fish it for optimal success.

Also linked below is a how-to video from Fly Fish Food on how to tie the zebra midge,

Materials Needed:

Hook: Standard midge hook (e.g., size 18-24)
Thread: Black, olive, purple, red, etc.
Ribbing: Fine silver or copper wire
Thorax: Peacock herl or dubbing in a contrasting color (e.g., red or green)
Head: Optional bead or thread for the head

Tying Steps: Tying the Zebra Midge

Secure the Hook: Place the midge hook in the vise, ensuring it's secure. Start the thread at the eye of the hook and wrap it along the shank, creating a smooth foundation.
Attach the Ribbing: Tie in the fine wire ribbing along the length of the shank. This will create segmentation on the body of the Zebra Midge.
Wrap the Body: Use the black or red thread to form a slender body along the shank, leaving some space behind the eye for the thorax. Ensure a smooth and even body.
Add Ribbing: Counter-wrap the fine wire ribbing over the body, creating evenly spaced segments. This adds durability and a realistic look to the midge.
Create the Thorax: If using a contrasting color for the thorax, tie in peacock herl or dubbing behind the eye of the hook. Wrap the material to form a slightly thicker thorax, enhancing the fly's profile.
Optional Bead Head: If desired, add a bead head by sliding it onto the hook before tying the thread. This adds weight to the fly and enhances its sink rate.
Finish the Head: Complete the fly by forming a neat head behind the eye using thread wraps. Whip finish the fly, securing the thread, and trim any excess.

Fishing Techniques:

Mid-Water Column Presentation: The Zebra Midge is effective when presented mid-column, imitating the pupal stage of midges. Use a strike indicator to suspend the fly at the desired depth.
Dead Drift Approach: Employ a dead drift technique by casting upstream and allowing the Zebra Midge to drift naturally with the current. This mimics the movement of emerging midges and entices trout.
Varying Colors for Adaptability: Experiment with different colors to match the midge hatch in your local waters. Black and red variations are popular, but adapt the color to suit the prevailing conditions

The BEST Fly Pattern to Start Tying Flies! - Zebra Midge - Fly Tying Tutorial

With : Fly Fish Food

In this fly tying tutorial, Cheech ties the Zebra Midge. The great things about a zebra midge are that it is among the easiest flies to tie, and it can easily be modified to be tied in a wide range or colors and variations. I think black is the most common color but I fish a lot of brown, olive, and red too. Here's the video, but make sure to check out some of our alternate recipes below.

Material List: https://www.flyfishfood.com/blogs/beg... #flyfishfood

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