Black Gnat Midge

The Black Gnat Midge is a dry fly pattern designed to imitate tiny black midges and gnats—particularly adult midges in their resting or emerging phase. These small, dark-bodied insects are common near streams, lakes, and stillwaters, especially during the warmer months or in winter tailwater fisheries where midges hatch year-round. The fly’s slim black body, fine hackle, and minimalist profile make it a subtle and effective choice when trout are selectively sipping midges from the surface. It's especially effective in flat water, eddies, or spring creeks where precision and realism matter.

History:
The Black Gnat Midge is a refined, smaller version of the traditional Black Gnat pattern, adapted for modern fly fishing where smaller, more imitative flies are often required. While the original Black Gnat dates back to the 19th century as a general attractor, the midge variant gained popularity in the 20th century with the growing recognition of midges as a critical food source—particularly on pressured or technical waters. Often tied in sizes 18–24, the Black Gnat Midge retains the classic black coloration but with a more streamlined silhouette suited to matching tiny chironomids and gnats. It remains a reliable pattern in both stillwater and river fisheries worldwide.