The Croton Midge: Small Fly, Big Results

Why Fish the Croton Midge?

If you're not fishing midges it’s high time we change that. These tiny flies are deadly year-round — especially in cold, clear water. The Croton Midge is a variation of a local pattern that imitates neon-green midges on the East Branch of the Croton River.

It’s subtle, flashy, and incredibly effective — whether fished deep, suspended in the water column, or swung as an emerger.

What Makes the Croton Midge Special?

The standout feature is a neon lime green abdomen, tied on a hook size 20–28. And yes — they really are that small.

What makes this pattern a staple in my fly box is its versatility. It walks the line between two food sources:

  • Midge larva

  • Small green caddis larva

If someone asks, “Is that a midge or a caddis?” — perfect. That’s the kind of ambiguity that entices a selective trout to eat.

When and Where to Fish It

Best Water:
Target riffle-run sections of clear rivers. I recommend starting higher in the column, then adjusting deeper based on takes.

Best Time:
The Croton Midge performs all year, but truly excels during winter and early spring, when midges dominate the hatch.

Tying the Croton Midge

The real secret is the Sulky Holoshimmer thread, which gives the pattern its signature flash and vibrant color. I like to add a small touch of DuPont Antron dubbing, which can can be used as a thorax or collar — especially if you're tying it as an emerger or want a slightly buggier profile.

Croton Midge Materials:

  • Hook: Size 20–28 curved nymph or midge hook

  • Thread/Body: Sulky Holoshimmer (Neon Lime)

  • Rib (Optional): Fine silver wire or crystal flash

  • Bead Head (Optional): 1.5mm silver or black tungsten

  • Thorax (Optional): DuPont Antron dubbing (olive, black, or tan)

Pro tip: Use different Holoshimmer thread and Antron colors to create attractor variations that match your local midges.

Summary: Why This Pattern Belongs in Your Box

  • Effective year-round

  • Mimics multiple food sources

  • Perfect for pressured water

  • Simple and fast to tie

  • Highly visible, even at tiny sizes

If you fish midges — especially in technical rivers or tailwaters — the Croton Midge is one you’ll want to keep stocked.

Share Your Ties

Have your own version of the Croton Midge? Check out The BourbonandBrownsCollective Instagram Page or Post a photo on Instagram and tag it with #CrotonMidge — I’d love to see what you're tying.