How to Tie: the Super Midge Pupa Fly

Fly Tying

Apr 22

The Super Midge Pupa is a killer pattern that combines the subtle shimmer of opal Mirage with the natural allure of peacock herl, making it a must-have in any angler's box. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, let's dive into how to tie this beauty!

Materials List:

Hook: Ahrex B110 Size 10
Thread: Black
Opal Mirage (Medium)
Peacock Herl
Red Crystal Flash (or similar)
UV Resin (Original and Thick)
Superglue
UV Light or Flashlight
Wing Bud Material (Silly Hedge or Similar)
Weight Floss (Optional)
Varnish (Thin)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Start with the Hook and Thread
Begin by securing your hook in the vise and attaching black thread. Run the thread down the hook shank until you reach the bend, creating a solid foundation for the materials.

2. Add the Opal Mirage Tail
Tie in the medium Opal Mirage along the top of the hook shank, forming a "V" shape. Wrap the Mirage back toward the hook bend and secure it with a few tight wraps.

3. Tie in the Peacock Herl
Take a few strands of peacock herl, remove the fine fibers, and tie them in at the hook’s mid-point. Trim the herl slightly to form a small point, and wrap it around the hook shank towards the front for added segmentation.

4. Add Red Crystal Flash
Tie in red crystal flash to add a metallic red accent. This brings a subtle shimmer to the fly and increases its visibility to fish. Make sure the flash extends from the point of the hook to a little past the bend.

5. Secure the Mirage and UV Resin
Bring the Opal Mirage up the shank toward the eye of the hook, being sure to glue it in place with superglue if needed. Apply a thin layer of UV resin on the thread wraps to keep the Mirage secure and add some durability. Use a double needle to evenly spread the resin and cure it with a UV light.

6. Build the Thorax with Peacock Herl
For the thorax, wrap peacock herl around the hook shank, being careful to form a tapered body. This part of the fly should be thicker than the rest of the body, so add extra herl if needed to give it the right profile.

7. Tie in the Wing Buds
Cut small sections of wing bud material (like Silly Hedge) and tie them on top of the thorax. Use a Stanley blade to trim the material to the desired length and ensure symmetry on both sides.

8. Create the Wing and Thorax Shape
After securing the wing buds, use a dab of UV resin on the top of the fly to hold everything in place and shape the thorax. Cure the resin under UV light and check that the fly maintains the taper from thick at the front to narrow toward the tail.

9. Finish the Fly
For the final touch, apply a thin coat of varnish to ensure the fly is sleek and shiny. Trim away any excess thread and materials, then check the fly for any stray fibers.

10. Optional: Add Weight Floss
If desired, tie in weight floss around the thorax area to give the fly added weight. This will help the fly sink faster, especially when fishing in deeper water. Trim the floss to your preferred length.

Fly Tying