How to Tie a Simple and Effective Small Midge Dry Fly
With: McFly Angler
Tying a small midge dry fly can be a rewarding challenge, but with the right materials and steps, you'll have a successful pattern that’s perfect for picky trout. This guide walks you through each step of tying a tiny midge pattern using CDC and rooster cape feathers, ideal for rivers like the San Juan.
Materials:
Small straight shank dry fly hook (size 18-22)
Vise
Veevus 16/0 thread (or similar fine thread)
CDC puff (white, gray, or dun)
Rooster cape (Whiting silver or equivalent)
Hackle pliers
Head cement
Whip finish tool
Scissors
Step-by-Step Guide:
Prepare Your Hook and Thread
Start by securing your small straight shank dry fly hook in the vise.
Using fine thread (like Veevus 16/0), wrap a thin thread base about a quarter of the way down the hook shank, creating a smooth, even body.
Tie in the CDC Wing
Select a single CDC puff (white, gray, or dun). Split it in half using wet fingers for better control.
Tie the CDC onto the top of the hook using a pinch wrap, pulling it back slightly to create a bow in the wing. This will help you tie multiple flies from one CDC puff.
Prepare and Tie in the Rooster Hackle
Select a fine feather from a rooster cape (Whiting silver or Mets number three). Strip off the lower barbs, leaving a short section of the bare stem.
Position the feather with the shiny side facing you, and secure it to the hook with two wraps of thread.
Create an "X" wrap by crossing your thread over the feather stem, then make two more wraps in front to secure it.
Wrap the Hackle
Using hackle pliers, make tight wraps with the feather up to the point where your thread is positioned. Maintain a 60-degree angle to ensure even coverage.
Once the feather is in place, secure it with two tight wraps of thread.
Finish the Fly
After wrapping the hackle, pull the fibers rearward, stroking them to ensure they point towards the back of the fly.
Make a few final wraps in front of the hackle to secure it, then trim any excess fibers.
Apply head cement to the thread before whip finishing to strengthen the fly and improve durability.
Whip Finish and Clean Up
Whip finish the fly and trim the thread. Leave a small tag end for added durability.
Carefully trim any stray fibers, and you're done!