Coffin Fly
The Coffin Fly imitates the white, spent female Green Drake spinner, one of the most famous and selective mayfly events of the year. Strong for searches like Coffin Fly spinner pattern, Green Drake spinner fly, and best white mayfly spinner imitation.
Imitates: Spent female Green Drake (Ephemera guttulata) spinner
Quick Reference
- Best Sizes
- #10-12
- Best Season
- Late spring to early summer
- Best Conditions
- Evening spinner falls on eastern rivers during the Green Drake hatch
- Water Temp
- 58-66°F
- Recommended Tippet
- 4X-5X
How to Rig It
Single large spent-wing dry; heavy enough tippet to land big fish.
How to Present It
Dead-drift flush; the white wings glow in low light, helping you track the drift.
Why It Works
Coffin Fly falls bring the biggest trout in a river to the surface. The huge spent profile is an irresistible target.
History
Named for the white, coffin-shaped wings of the spent Drake spinner. A staple of Penns Creek and Catskill lore.
Pro Tip
Don't underline. Use 4X — Coffin Fly water often produces the biggest brown trout of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Green Drake and Coffin Fly?+
Green Drake is the dun (yellow-olive). Coffin Fly is the spinner — white, spent, dying on the water.
Not sure if Coffin Fly is right today?
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