Spring Has Sprung In the Rockies

Heavy a.m. midge emergences combined with dense afternoon blue-winged olive hatches are a sure sign spring is here. To match the hatch, you’ll need to carry a thorough selection of midge imitations and Baetis nymphs. Some of my favorite patterns include: #20 Mercury Midges, #20 Jujubaetis, #20 Stalcup’s Baetis, #20 Sparkle Wing RS 2, and #22-24 Chocolate Foam Wing Emergers.

Tailwater trout are keying heavily on midges (larva and pupa) and Baetis nymphs this time of year. This beautiful brown trout was fooled on a size 20 Mercury Midge late last week.