Stalcup's Cluster Midge

Created by innovative Colorado tier Shane Stalcup, this pattern imitates a small cluster of midges trapped on the surface during heavy midge hatches. The design uses two pairs of protruding wings, a peacock body, and a double parachute profile that floats the fly like a cork. Cluster feeding is common in winter and early spring, when trout key on groups of adults rather than singles. This pattern’s dense silhouette and high-floating posture make it highly effective in slow water and foam lines where trout selectively target midge clusters.

Cluster midges often gather and get trapped right against soft edges and foam lines; starting the drift with the fly already “stuck” to the bank triggers takes from trout waiting inches off the shoreline.