White Midge Emerger Bead Head Fly Fishing Flies: The Ultimate Guide (Choose Size & One Dozen)
1. Introduction: Why White Midge Emerger Bead Head Flies Are a Must-Have
For fly fishing enthusiasts, midge patterns are a game-changer—especially during early spring and winter when fish feed aggressively on emerging insects. The White Midge Emerger Bead Head is a standout pattern, designed to mimic midge pupae rising to the surface. Its bead head adds weight for better sinking, while the white coloration provides high visibility in murky waters.
Buying them in size one dozen ensures you’re well-stocked for a full day on the water. Whether you’re targeting trout, panfish, or even smallmouth bass, this fly is a reliable choice.
2. Types of White Midge Emerger Bead Head Flies
Not all midge emergers are the same. Here are the main variations:
– Standard Bead Head: A classic with a tungsten or brass bead for quick sinking.
– UV-Enhanced: Extra visibility under UV light, great for low-light conditions.
– Soft Hackle Variant: Adds subtle movement, mimicking a struggling emerger.
– Thread-Body vs. CDC: Some use thread for durability, while CDC (cul-de-canard) offers natural buoyancy.
3. How to Choose the Best White Midge Emerger Bead Head (Size & One Dozen)
– Size Matters: Sizes 16-22 are most effective for trout; larger sizes (12-14) work for panfish.
– Bead Material: Tungsten sinks faster than brass—ideal for deep pools.
– Hook Quality: Opt for chemically sharpened hooks for better penetration.
– Packaging: Buying in bulk (one dozen) saves money and ensures spares.
4. Top 5 White Midge Emerger Bead Head Flies (One Dozen Picks)
1. Orvis White Midge Emerger Bead Head
✅ Highlights: Premium tungsten bead, UV-reflective thread.
✅ Pros:
– Ultra-durable construction
– Excellent sink rate
– Consistent hook-ups
❌ Cons: Slightly pricier than budget options
🎯 Best for: Serious anglers who prioritize quality.
2. Umpqua White Midge Emerger
✅ Highlights: Hand-tied, CDC collar for lifelike movement.
✅ Pros:
– Realistic action
– Sharp, corrosion-resistant hooks
– Great for selective trout
❌ Cons: CDC frays over time
🎯 Best for: Finesse fishing in clear water.
3. Hareline Dubbin White Midge Emerger
✅ Highlights: Affordable, brass bead option.
✅ Pros:
– Budget-friendly
– Good for beginners
– Decent durability
❌ Cons: Lacks tungsten’s fast sink rate
🎯 Best for: Casual anglers or those stocking up.
4. Fulling Mill Competition Midge
✅ Highlights: Competition-grade, slim profile.
✅ Pros:
– Superb hook strength
– Minimalist design fools wary fish
– Great for Euro-nymphing
❌ Cons: Not as flashy as UV options
🎯 Best for: Competitive anglers.
5. Flymen Fishing Company White Midge
✅ Highlights: Synthetic materials for durability.
✅ Pros:
– Stays buoyant longer
– Resistant to wear
– Good for stillwaters
❌ Cons: Less natural movement
🎯 Best for: Stillwater fly fishers.
5. Buying Considerations
✔ Hook Sharpness – Test before buying.
✔ Bead Size vs. Fly Size – Ensure proper balance.
✔ Material Quality – Avoid cheap synthetics that degrade quickly.
✔ Brand Reputation – Stick to trusted names like Orvis, Umpqua, or Hareline.
6. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What size is best for trout?
A: Sizes 18-22 are ideal for selective trout.
Q2: How do I fish a midge emerger?
A: Dead-drift it under an indicator or as part of a nymphing rig.
Q3: Can I use these in saltwater?
A: No, they’re designed for freshwater.
Q4: Why buy a dozen instead of singles?
A: Midges are small and easily lost—buying in bulk ensures backup.
Q5: Do I need a special tippet?
A: Use 5X-7X fluorocarbon for best results.
7. Final Thoughts & Call to Action
The White Midge Emerger Bead Head is a must for any fly box, especially in size one dozen for convenience. Whether you’re nymphing deep or targeting risers, this fly delivers.
Ready to stock up? Check out our recommended picks and hit the water with confidence! Tight lines! 🎣
The White Midge Emerger Bead Head is a highly effective fly pattern for trout fishing, especially in tailwaters, spring creeks, and slow-moving rivers where midges are a primary food source. Here’s what you need to know:
Key Features:
– Pattern: Midge emerger (imitates midges transitioning from pupa to adult).
– Color: White (pale/translucent body for realism).
– Bead Head: Tungsten or brass bead for weight and added flash.
– Hook Size: Typically 16–22 (size 18 is a popular choice).
– Material:
– Body: White thread or synthetic dubbing (UV Ice Dub works well).
– Ribbing: Fine silver or copper wire.
– Thorax: Peacock herl or dark dubbing for contrast.
– Wing Case: Clear or white CDC, Antron, or synthetic fibers.
– Bead: Gold, silver, or black for added attraction.
When & How to Fish It:
– Best Conditions: Slow water, cold weather, or when trout are selectively feeding on midges.
– Presentation:
– Fish as part of a two-fly nymph rig (e.g., trailed below a heavier fly).
– Use a slow, dead drift near the bottom.
– Add a tiny strike indicator for better detection.
– Try a soft twitch to imitate emerging movement.
– Target Species: Trout (especially rainbows and browns), grayling.
Buying a Dozen (12 Flies):
– Recommended Sizes: 18 or 20 (adjust based on hatch size).
– Top Brands:
– Umpqua
– Orvis
– Hareline
– FlyShack (budget-friendly)
– Local fly shops (for hand-tied quality).
Tying Your Own (If Interested):
– Recipe:
– Hook: Tiemco 2488 or Daiichi 1130 (18–22).
– Bead: 1.5mm–2mm tungsten (gold/silver).
– Thread: White 8/0 or 12/0.
– Body: White thread or Ice Dub.
– Rib: X-small silver wire.
– Thorax: Peacock or black dubbing.
– Wing Case: Clear plastic or CDC.
Would you like recommendations for specific retailers or a video on how to fish this fly effectively? Tight lines! 🎣
