Great Gray Spotted Caddis

Overview: The Great Gray Spotted Sedge (Arctopsyche grandis), also known as the Gray Caddis or McKenzie Caddis, is one of the largest caddisflies, with a wingspan that can reach up to 1.5 inches. This caddis is known for its robust size and distinctive grayish body, which features prominent spots along the thorax. It is typically found in fast-moving, clear rivers and streams, where its larvae cling to rocks and debris. Common hook sizes for imitating this caddisfly range from 8 to 12.

Nymph: The Great Gray Spotted Sedge nymph is large, measuring about 1 inch in length. It has a stout, dark brown to grayish body with a segmented abdomen and distinctive spots along its thorax. The nymphs are typically found clinging to rocks, submerged vegetation, and other debris in fast-moving waters. They are known to crawl along the bottom before emerging into adulthood. Hook sizes for Great Gray Spotted Sedge nymph patterns typically range from 8 to 12, reflecting the size and robust nature of the nymph.

Dry/Dun/Spinner: The adult Great Gray Spotted Sedge, or dun, measures about 1 to 1.5 inches in length. It has a gray to brown body with a distinctive pattern of dark spots on the thorax. The wings are often translucent with a grayish hue, making them recognizable when floating on the water's surface. The Great Gray Spotted Sedge emerges in the late afternoon or evening, often in larger hatches. Its size and distinctive appearance make it a favored target for trout. Common hook sizes for dry flies range from 8 to 12.

Curated by the IdentaFly fly fishing team.