>>682425I typically use a size 22 hook [grab some size 16 hooks to practice with, they also make great summer nymphs, these flies are great because they are productive, and a small amount of materials can go a long way.
the bead isn't needed, but is a great way to add weight, same with wrapping lead or wire around the lon part of the hook.
my pheasant tails typically consist of pheasant tail fibers, and peacock herl. the patterns for midges and nymphs are extremely simple, just tedious to stay consistent, and to learn.
Midges are really fun to tie because you can use almost any material to tie them, and having a diverse color set can help you to catch more fish and match the hatch from river to river.
Pheasant Tail
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7X4FpATAIW0Zebra Midge
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFAlXG_78Z4Midge Pupa [my favorite small fly, great for any season]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKrrN3vzonYTypically I tie 2-3 flies onto my tippet, I nymph with 3x 9' Umpqua Leaders, attaching tippet of .007 using the first tag line for a size 22 unweighted midge, followed by a size 22 weighted pheasant tail, then if fishing with 3 flies I add a .006 tippet with a heavy size 16 or 22 midge or pheasant tail [I try to keep the last fly small in most cases, usually using one with lead or wire wrapped on hook shank and a heavy tungsten bead.
sometimes, I will use a dry fly and 1-2 nymphs when fishing the late afternoon.
the offset of having the two botton flies weighted allows both flies to bounce off the bottom, must of the same theory seen in humphry's nymphing rigs [one fly two split shots]
Most people nymph with short leaders [5'-6'] with minimal tippet, I usually fish long leaders and tippets [czech style] but with the humphrys method [facing straight up the river] this seems to be the most productive style for the New England area.
