Brown Drake

Overview:
The Brown Drake (Ephemera simulans) is a large and robust mayfly species found in streams and rivers throughout the northern United States and Canada. Known for its size and the dramatic nature of its hatch, the Brown Drake is an important food source for trout, especially during its adult emergence. The adult mayfly is easily recognizable by its brownish body, large wings, and characteristic upright posture during emergence. Brown Drake hatches typically occur in late spring and early summer, and their emergence is often followed by intense feeding activity from fish. Common hook sizes for imitating the Brown Drake range from 8 to 14.

Nymph:
The Brown Drake nymph is a large, stout insect that measures about 1 to 1.5 inches in length. It has a brown to olive body, with a dark thorax and a robust, segmented abdomen. These nymphs are typically found in the substrate of fast-moving streams, clinging to rocks and submerged vegetation. They are often seen crawling along the bottom before emerging into their adult form. Common hook sizes for Brown Drake nymph patterns are typically 10 to 14.

Dry/Dun/Spinner:
The adult Brown Drake, or dun, measures around 1 to 1.5 inches in length. It has a distinct brown to olive body and large, clear wings that often appear slightly translucent. The Brown Drake dun emerges in the late afternoon or early evening, often in large hatches. These mayflies are known for their upright posture as they prepare to lay eggs. Effective hook sizes for dry flies typically range from 8 to 12. Common patterns include traditional dry flies, parachute styles, or comparaduns to match the adult mayfly’s size and movement. These patterns are ideal for imitating the Brown Drake during its active hatch period when trout are most likely to feed on the surface.