Wulff, Adams

The Adams Wulff fly pattern is a high-floating dry fly that imitates adult mayflies, especially larger species like the March Brown or Gray Drake. Its upright, hair wings and bushy hackle allow it to stay visible and ride high on fast or choppy water, making it effective when trout are feeding on mayflies in turbulent stream conditions. While it doesn’t exactly match any one insect, its silhouette and color scheme resemble many gray or brown-toned mayflies.

History:

The Adams Wulff is a variation that blends the traditional Adams pattern with the Wulff style of flies, pioneered by Lee Wulff in the 1930s. Wulff’s goal was to create dry flies that were more durable and visible, particularly suited for rugged North American rivers. The Adams Wulff combines the trusted gray and brown coloration of the original Adams with the Wulff-style features: upright calf tail or bucktail wings and a robust, high-floating design. This fusion has made it a popular choice for anglers seeking a mayfly imitation that performs well in rougher water.