CDC Surface Midge – Mayfly Dry Fly
As the weather cools, midges become an ever more important food source for trout.
The CDC Surface Midge is designed to float well because it is made entirely of cul de canard feathers.
Fish it on the surface as a dry fly, or let it get waterlogged and use it as an emerger or cripple in the subsurface.
Excellent for sipping trout or when you see trout rising but are unsure of the reason.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Material | Cul de canard feathers |
| Use Type | Dry fly, emerger, cripple |
| Float Behavior | Floats well on surface |
| Best Use | Surface feeding, sipping trout, rising trout with unknown cause |
FAQ
What makes the CDC Surface Midge different from other midge imitations?
The CDC Surface Midge is made entirely of cul de canard feathers, which provide excellent floating properties and natural movement, making it ideal for imitating real midge behavior on the surface.
Can I use this fly in both surface and subsurface presentations?
Yes, the CDC Surface Midge can be fished on the surface as a dry fly or allowed to become waterlogged for use as an emerger or cripple in the subsurface.
Is this fly suitable for trout that are sipping or rising without clear cues?
Yes, it is particularly effective for sipping trout or when trout are rising without a clear indication of what they are feeding on.

Luke Anderson –
This fly works well in cool weather when midges are active. It floats naturally and stays on the surface, which helps when trout are sipping. I’ve used it as both a dry and an emerger, and it responds well to different conditions.
Sally Jones –
The feather construction gives it a realistic look and feel. It’s easy to tie and works well in still waters. I noticed it stays afloat longer than other midge patterns I’ve tried.
Julian Brown –
Great for when I can’t tell what trout are rising for. It mimics midge behavior closely and triggers strikes even in low visibility. Works well in the early morning when the water is still.