Chironomids (Midges)

Overview:
Chironomids, also known as midges, are small, non-biting flies that are found in almost every freshwater habitat. Midges are a key food source for fish, especially during their larval and pupal stages, and they hatch year-round, often during overcast days or in cooler water conditions. Their small size and abundance make them an essential part of a trout’s diet.

Nymph:
Midge nymphs are tiny, typically ranging from 0.2 to 0.5 inches in length. They are slender, with segmented bodies that are often olive, brown, or black. The nymphs are often found on the substrate of lakes or rivers, living in the muck or attached to rocks. Common hook sizes for midge nymph patterns range from 18 to 22, with colors like black, olive, or brown being the most common.

Dry/Dun/Spinner:
The adult midge, or "spinner," is extremely small, usually around 0.2 to 0.5 inches long. These flies have delicate, clear wings and are often gray, black, or olive in color. The spinner stage is often most noticeable when large hatches occur near the water’s surface, especially in the early morning or late evening. The hook sizes for midge dry flies are typically between 18 and 24. Midges are commonly fished using patterns like the Griffith’s Gnat or parachute style flies, where the fly’s small size and presentation mimic the midge’s emergence.