BH Zebra Midge - Black

The Classic Tailwater Midge — Bead Head Version

The BH Zebra Midge in Black is the traditional bead head version of one of the most productive tailwater midge patterns ever tied. Developed on the San Juan River in New Mexico and proven on tailwaters across the American West, the Zebra Midge's black thread body and silver wire ribbing create a slim, segmented profile that perfectly imitates the midge pupae that trout feed on year-round in Colorado's coldest, clearest rivers.

The bead head version adds a focal point that draws the trout's eye and provides just enough weight to get the fly into the feeding zone without the aggressive sink rate of a tungsten jig bead. This makes it ideal for fishing at mid-depth in slower runs, pools, and tailouts where a more subtle presentation is needed. On the Frying Pan, Roaring Fork, and Colorado River, midges are the most consistent food source available to trout in every season — especially in winter and early spring when other hatches are absent.

Pattern Details

• Style: Bead head midge pupa imitation
• Color: Black with silver wire ribbing
• Bead: Bead head — moderate sink rate, subtle weight
• Body: Black thread with silver wire rib — slim, segmented midge profile
• Imitates midge pupae — the most consistent food source on Colorado tailwaters
• Effective on the Frying Pan, Roaring Fork, Colorado River, and most Colorado tailwaters
• Works year-round; essential in winter and early spring
• Ideal for slower runs, pools, and tailouts where a subtle presentation is needed

How to Fish It

Dead-drift under an indicator or on a tight line at mid-depth through seams, runs, and pools where midges concentrate. The bead head version is especially effective in slower, clearer water where a more subtle presentation outperforms heavier tungsten patterns. Fish it as a single fly or pair it with an RS2, Walt's Worm, or Rainbow Warrior as a dropper in a two-fly rig. On the Frying Pan, fish it through the deep slots and runs below the dam where midge populations are highest.

Available in store at Glenwood Springs Outdoors, 831 Grand Ave, Glenwood Springs, CO.