In this week’s “How to Tie” feature, Tim Flagler of Tightlinevideo brings us a tiny but mighty pattern perfect for fall and winter when fish get more selective, the Micro Egg.
Learn About This Fly:
Difficulty: Easy
Egg patterns are a staple in cold-water fly boxes, but when trout start ignoring the usual suspects, it’s time to go micro. The Micro Egg is tied on a size 22 scud hook and uses just a pinch of McFly Foam to imitate a drifting egg. It’s simple and surprisingly effective, especially when fish are keyed in on small, natural food items.
Tim generously offers us a clever trick for dispensing yarn that’ll make you wonder why you didn’t think of it first. As always, his step-by-step instructions make even the smallest fly feel approachable. This fly is ideal for tying in batches. Once you get the hang of the foam placement, you’ll be able to crank out a dozen in under 30 minutes. Tie the Micro Egg in a range of colors, including yellow, pink, chartreuse, and you’ll be ready for any hatchery or wild trout scenario.
This pattern is especially deadly in tailwaters and heavily pressured spring creeks where trout have seen every fly in the book. The small profile and natural drift make it hard for fish to resist and whether you’re targeting winter holdovers or early spring risers, the Micro Egg is a quiet killer. Keep a few in your box and you’ll be thanking yourself when the pressure turns on and temperatures begin to drop.
Ingredients:
- Hook: Scud/emerger hook – Size 22
- Thread: 8/0 or 70-denier – Fluorescent orange
- Egg: McFly Foam – Yellow
Now you know how to tie the Micro Egg!
Video and ingredients courtesy of Tightlinevideo.
