Eastern Green Drake

Overview: The Eastern Green Drake (Ephemera guttulata), also known as the Hex or Coffin Fly, is one of the largest and most impressive mayflies in North America. Renowned for its spectacular hatches in late spring and early summer, this mayfly is a favorite among anglers targeting trophy trout. With its olive-green body, speckled wings, and three long tails, the Eastern Green Drake is unmistakable and triggers aggressive feeding behavior from fish.

Nymph Stage: Eastern Green Drake nymphs are burrowers, ranging from 1/2" to 1" in length. Their robust bodies are dark brown to olive, with lighter highlights and large legs designed for digging into sandy or silty substrates. Hook sizes 6–10 work well for imitations. Fish them with a weighted nymph pattern near the bottom, especially in slower runs or pools where nymphs prepare for emergence. A slow retrieve or gentle lift can mimic their natural movement.

Adult Stage: Adult Eastern Green Drakes are large, measuring 1" to 1.5" long, with olive-green bodies and intricately patterned wings featuring dark veins and speckles. Dry fly patterns tied on hook sizes 6–10 effectively mimic the duns. They hatch in the evening, and their spinners, often called Coffin Flies, appear shortly after. The spinner fall is a dramatic event, with large trout feeding aggressively on spent adults. Present dry fly patterns delicately in slower pools or over rising fish to capitalize on these exciting moments.