Midge Pattern - Do you have a favorite?

[ChrisTheFish]

As I've been gearing up to do more winter fly fishing, I got to looking up various midge patterns and wondered which ones people have found most effective for rivers and streams. I live in Rexburg, Idaho and fish the Teton and Snake Rivers quite a bit.

Just curious if people had an opinion. [sly]
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[flygoddess]

I have a simple one. Just Fibbett tail, thread (color to match hatch) and Hackle. I tie them in 28's to 32's.
But Pheasant Tail Cripples are my go to tagged with a #22 WD 40.
Good subject, look forward to hearing more.
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[Brook]

Don't know the name of it---if it even has a name---as a buddy ties them. Just gray hackle on a silver body. Size 28 is the favored for winter trout around here.

Brook
http://www.the-outdoor-sports-advisor.com
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[ChrisTheFish]

I am amazed at how small of hooks are used to tie these! Any tips on tying these tiny flies would also be great. I turn into butterfingers with 22's! [crazy]
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[flygoddess]

22's are okay....if you need smaller, use only half of the hook. The hardest part on tying #30's and #32's is getting the hook into the vise.
At the demo I did this Saturday in Idaho Falls, I tied a couple of #32's.
The looks I got[crazy] They don't use flies that small in IDAHO![laugh]
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[Brook]

Chris,

Midges often clump up on the water, and the fish know this. So, if you're having problems tying on small hooks, try this.

Start with a #16 or #18 fine-wire hook, and tie two midges on it. It's easier for you to tie, and can be just as effective when fishing.

If you're really good (says the man who doesn't tie dries at all), you can tie one of them upright, and one of them spent wing, for even greater attractiveness.

Brook
http://the-outdoor-sports-advisor.com
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[flygoddess]

OR, the good old Griffith Gnat. It is suppose to represent a cluster.
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[Dryrod]

[font "Garamond"][#008000][size 4]Why not - for that is one of my go to dries. Too bad one couldn't incorporate a turkey feather in the tying of the GN for then the fishys could also celebrate the holiday tomorrow. [/size][/#008000][/font]
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[flygoddess]

I am sure someone has done that. LMAO
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