# **How to Choose 1 Dozen (12) – Zebra Midge**
## **Introduction**
When it comes to fly fishing, midges are among the most reliable and effective patterns for catching trout year-round. Among the many variations, the **Zebra Midge** stands out for its simplicity, versatility, and consistent success. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, having a **dozen (12) Zebra Midges** in your fly box is essential.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the best **Zebra Midge flies** for different fishing conditions, including size, color, bead selection, and material quality. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for when stocking up on these must-have flies.
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## **1. Understanding the Zebra Midge**
The **Zebra Midge** is a simple yet highly effective fly pattern designed to imitate midge pupae—a staple food source for trout in rivers, streams, and still waters. Its key features include:
– **Slim, tapered body** – Mimics the natural shape of midge larvae and pupae.
– **Distinctive black or colored bands** – Creates segmentation, enhancing realism.
– **Bead head (optional)** – Adds weight for deeper presentation and attracts fish with flash.
Because midges hatch year-round, especially in colder months, having a **dozen Zebra Midges** ensures you’re always prepared.
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## **2. Choosing the Right Size**
Zebra Midges typically range from **#16 to #24**, with **#18 and #20** being the most popular. Here’s how to select the right size:
– **#16 – #18**: Best for murky water or when trout are feeding aggressively.
– **#20 – #22**: Ideal for clear water and selective fish.
– **#24 and smaller**: Useful in ultra-clear spring creeks or pressured waters.
**Pro Tip:** Since midges are tiny, carrying a **dozen in multiple sizes** (e.g., 4x #18, 4x #20, 4x #22) ensures adaptability.
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## **3. Selecting the Best Colors**
While the classic **black/silver** Zebra Midge is a go-to, trout often key in on different hues depending on conditions. Here are the top color options:
– **Black & Silver**: The standard—works in almost any situation.
– **Red & Silver**: Great for attracting attention in stained water.
– **Olive & Gold**: Mimics natural midge larvae in spring and summer.
– **Purple & Copper**: Effective in deep pools and tailwaters.
**KyleBooker Pro Recommendation:** A **dozen Zebra Midges** should include at least **3-4 different color variations** to match local midge species.
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## **4. Bead Head vs. Non-Beaded**
The bead head version adds weight and flash, making it ideal for:
– **Faster currents** – Sinks quickly to the feeding zone.
– **Deep pools** – Gets down to where trout hold.
– **Low-light conditions** – The flash triggers strikes.
Non-beaded Zebra Midges are better for:
– **Slow, clear water** – More natural drift.
– **Suspending under an indicator** – Lighter for a delicate presentation.
**Best Practice:** Carry **6 beaded and 6 non-beaded** in your dozen for flexibility.
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## **5. Material Quality Matters**
A well-tied Zebra Midge should have:
– **Durable thread wraps** – Prevents unraveling after multiple catches.
– **Tungsten beads (if beaded)** – Heavier than brass for faster sinking.
– **UV-resistant coatings** – Enhances visibility underwater.
**KyleBooker’s Premium Zebra Midges** are hand-tied with high-quality materials for maximum durability and fish-catching performance.
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## **6. Where & How to Fish Zebra Midges**
– **Under an Indicator**: Suspending a Zebra Midge 1-3 feet below a strike indicator mimics a drifting pupa.
– **Euro Nymphing**: Works great as a **dropper fly** behind a heavier nymph.
– **Still Waters**: Slow-stripped near the bottom can be deadly in lakes.
**Hot Spots for Zebra Midges:**
– Tailwaters (e.g., San Juan, Green River)
– Spring creeks
– Winter trout streams
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## **Conclusion: Building Your Perfect Dozen**
A well-rounded **dozen (12) Zebra Midges** should include:
✅ **Multiple sizes** (#18, #20, #22)
✅ **Different colors** (black, red, olive, purple)
✅ **Beaded & non-beaded versions**
✅ **High-quality materials** (tungsten beads, durable thread)
By stocking your fly box with a **KyleBooker Zebra Midge assortment**, you’ll be ready for any midge hatch and increase your catch rates significantly.
**Tight lines and happy fishing!** 🎣
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**About KyleBooker:**
KyleBooker is a premium **fly fishing brand** dedicated to crafting high-performance flies and gear for anglers who demand the best. Explore our **Zebra Midge collection** and elevate your fly fishing game today!
Would you like recommendations on specific Zebra Midge sets? Let us know in the comments!