N0063 - Green Drake Nymph

The Green Drake Nymph is the “before the hatch” workhorse that consistently produces big fish. Long before you see duns on the surface, trout are already looking for these large mayfly nymphs as they drift, migrate, and get swept into feeding lanes. With its substantial profile and natural movement, this pattern is a perfect match for one of the most important high-protein meals of early summer.

Why it works

• Imitates the drake’s largest and most available stage: the nymph

• Big silhouette = big target, ideal for faster runs and deeper seams

• Excellent searching nymph when you know drakes are present but surface action hasn’t started

How to fish it

• Fish it as the lead fly in a two-nymph rig with a smaller dropper (midge/baetis/PMD) behind

• Focus on riffle-to-run transitions, deeper buckets, and seam edges

• Add weight and get it down—most takes happen close to the bottom

• Deadly in the days leading up to a drake hatch and during runoff drop as rivers clear

If you’re fishing a river known for drakes and want a subsurface option that can move quality trout, the Green Drake Nymph is an essential.