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Nymph / Pattern notes

Zebra Midge

A slim thread body and fine wire rib imitate a small midge below the surface.

At the vise
Beginner friendly
Common sizes
#16–22
From hook to fly

At the vise.

4 steps

Follow this base recipe in order. The materials list specifies one hook size; adjust proportions together when tying another size.

  1. Fit the bead

    Slide the bead onto the hook. Start thread behind it and secure the rib wire along the shank.

  2. Taper the body

    Wrap thread down the curve and back, building a thin taper toward the bead.

  3. Rib

    Spiral wire forward in four or five open turns. Secure behind the bead and remove excess.

  4. Finish

    Whip finish and apply a small drop of cement without closing the eye.

Beyond the bench

On the water.

Fish below an indicator or as a small dropper. Slow, clear water often rewards a slim body and a controlled drift.

Tied by independent makers

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Recipe references

Original written instructions adapted from the sources below. Materials and methods may vary between versions.

For the same fly box.

Illustration of a finished Prince Nymph flyPrince NymphNymph · #10–18Illustration of a finished Pheasant Tail flyPheasant TailNymph · #12–20Illustration of a finished Hare’s Ear flyHare’s EarNymph · #10–18