What Are Midges in Fly Fishing?

Midges in fly fishing are small, aquatic insects that are part of the dipteran family. They are very common in rivers, streams, and lakes throughout the world, and they make up one of the most important food sources for fish. Although midges are tiny, they can have a huge impact on the success of a fly fisher’s catch.

Midges typically vary in size from 1/8 to 1/4 inch in length, with a wingspan of up to 3/8 inch. They have two wings and antennae, giving them a similar appearance to small mosquitoes or crane flies.

The first set of wings is usually transparent or grayish-white, while the second pair is darker. Depending on species and environmental conditions, midges have a short lifespan ranging from 10 days to a few weeks.

Midges play an essential role in the aquatic food chain by providing sustenance for fish that may not have other food sources available. Fish will consume midges at every stage of their life cycle, including eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults. These insects will move from the water’s surface to its depths in search of food and shelter.

When fishing, it is important for fly fishers to keep midges in mind as they can serve as effective bait for attracting fish to their lure or fly rod line. Midges can also act as an indicator of what type of flies or lures to use, as different species may have a preference for specific types of midge larvae or pupae as a food source. Some anglers even use midge patterns to mimic live midge larvae or pupae, particularly during periods when other food sources are scarce.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, midges are an important part of fly fishing and should not be overlooked by anglers looking to increase their catch rate. They play an essential role in providing sustenance for fish and can also be used as bait or an indicator for what type of flies or lures should be used when fishing a particular body of water. By understanding what midges are and how they fit into the aquatic food chain, anglers can take full advantage of this valuable resource when out on their next fly fishing trip.

Photo of author

Daniel Bennet