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Black Elk Hair Caddis fly pattern
Dry · #430 of 532

Black Elk Hair Caddis

Black Elk Hair Caddis is a dark version of Al Troth's classic for matching dark caddis adults and overcast-day hatches. It supports Black Elk Hair Caddis fly, dark caddis dry, and trout dry searches.

Imitates: Dark adult caddis

Quick Reference

Best Sizes
#14-18
Best Season
Spring through fall
Best Conditions
Overcast days, evening hatches, and dark caddis water
Water Temp
50-68°F
Recommended Tippet
4X-5X

How to Rig It

Fish solo or as the visible dry over a small dropper.

How to Present It

Drag-free drift; skate occasionally to trigger eats.

Why It Works

Dark silhouette matches darker caddis species and stands out in low-light conditions.

History

A color variant of Al Troth's iconic Elk Hair Caddis.

Pro Tip

Switch to black on overcast days when standard tan caddis get refused.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I fish a Black Elk Hair Caddis?+

During dark caddis hatches and overcast evening conditions.

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