"The Palomino Midge: A Deadly Dry Fly for Trout That Mimics Nature’s Tiny Bounty"
Francis Haines Why It Stands Out
The Palomino Midge is a unique dry fly pattern that masterfully imitates midges—one of the most abundant and irresistible food sources for trout. Its lifelike design and buoyant construction make it a must-have in any angler’s arsenal.
How It’s Tied for Maximum Effectiveness
Crafted on a short shank hook, often with a straight eye, the Palomino Midge relies on just two key materials: foam and hackle. The body begins with fine thread in hues that mirror local midge species—typically black, brown, or cream—ensuring a perfect match to natural prey.
To replicate the segmented look of a midge pupa, a small foam piece is tied near the hook’s bend, adding buoyancy and realism. A grizzly or light-colored hackle feather is then wrapped around the foam, enhancing both the fly’s lifelike movement and its ability to stay afloat.
The finishing touch? A wing made of white or cream foam or poly yarn, tied atop the body. This not only boosts visibility but also mimics the emerging wing buds of a midge pupa—a detail that drives trout wild. A sleek thread head secures everything in place, completing this meticulously designed pattern.
What It Mimics to Perfection
The Palomino Midge excels at imitating midge pupae during their emergence phase, a pivotal moment when trout find them irresistible. The foam body and hackle create a convincing silhouette and natural buoyancy, while the wing adds a trigger that fish simply can’t ignore.
Where to Use It for Best Results
Versatile and reliable, the Palomino Midge shines in any water where midges dominate the trout’s diet. It’s particularly deadly during midge hatches, but don’t hesitate to deploy it as a searching pattern even when no hatch is visible—its lifelike design can tempt even the most cautious fish.
