Fly Tying Inventory
Black Beauty Midge
A classic, minimalist midge pattern that excels in winter tailwaters and spring creeks. With just thread, wire, and dubbing, this fly creates a convincing chironomid imitation. Its simplicity makes it an ideal pattern for beginners, yet it remains a staple in expert fly boxes nationwide.
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Materials
Tiemco 2487, sizes 18-24 (curved scud hook)
Black UTC 70 denier or 8/0
Small copper wire (extra fine for smallest sizes)
Black Superfine dubbing
How to Tie the Black Beauty Midge
- 1
Step 1
Secure the small curved hook in the vise. Start the black thread near the eye and tie in a piece of fine copper wire along the near side of the shank.
On sizes 22-24, use extra-fine wire to maintain proportions.
- 2
Step 2
Wrap the thread in smooth, even layers down to the bend and then back forward to just behind the eye, creating a slim, slightly tapered thread body.
- 3
Step 3
Spiral wrap the copper wire forward in evenly spaced turns to create segmentation. Tie off behind the eye, helicopter the wire to break it cleanly.
- 4
Step 4
Apply a very small amount of black Superfine dubbing to the thread. Dub a tiny ball just behind the hook eye to form the head/thorax.
Keep the dubbed head very small—just a subtle bulge is enough.
- 5
Step 5
Whip finish and apply a drop of head cement to the thread head. The finished fly should be slim and clean.
Watch Tying Tutorial
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWHr_NgsuL8
Credit: In The Riffle