How to Tie the Hot Spot Midge: A Step-by-Step Guide
With: Davie McPhail
The Magic Pupa is a fantastic pattern for catching fish, especially when conditions are right. This simple yet effective fly has a proven track record for success, particularly during the colder months when it's fished on a dropper. Here’s how to tie it!
Materials Needed:
UTC Thread (Red)
Super Stretch Fluorescent Black Floss (Rib)
Silver Tinsel (Size 14)
Mirage Medium Flash
Super Stretch Floss (Sunburst Dyed)
Thread (Dark for Thorax)
Fluorescent Acrylic Red Paint (Optional for Highlighting)
Varnish (Clear, to Finish)
Light Resin (For Coating)
Varnish Brush
Bug Bone (For Drying)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Set the Thread Base
Start by securing the red UTC thread at the hook’s eye, and wrap it down the shank to the bend, creating a smooth base.
Step 2: Add the Ribbing
Catch in the super stretch fluorescent black floss along the top of the hook. Stretch it out and run the thread back toward the hook bend.
Step 3: Attach the Silver Tinsel
Cut a small length of silver tinsel and tie it in at the back of the fly, then wrap it up the shank to form the body. Keep it smooth and level.
Step 4: Add the Ribbing
With the black floss, start wrapping the ribbing over the body in tight, evenly spaced turns. As you reach the top, slightly loosen the floss to create a taper.
Step 5: Create the Thorax
Switch to a darker thread for the thorax and wrap it forward, securing the body materials and building a thicker thorax towards the head.
Step 6: Tie in the Wing Buds
Cut a length of dyed Sunburst super stretch floss, measure about an inch, and tie it in underneath the thorax to form the wing buds.
Step 7: Add the Mirage Flash
Tie in a small length of mirage flash just in front of the thorax to add some shine and movement.
Step 8: Finish the Fly
Tie off and trim any excess materials. Apply a coat of fluorescent acrylic red paint on the top of the thorax for a glowing finish. Let it dry.
Step 9: Apply Resin
Once the paint has dried, coat the fly with light resin to give it a smooth, glossy finish. Allow it to cure under light for a few minutes.
Step 10: Varnish for Shine
Once the resin has dried, apply a layer of clear varnish to seal the fly, creating a durable, shiny coating that enhances the Hot spot middge fish-catching appeal.
