X-Caddis
X-Caddis is Craig Mathews and John Juracek's trailing-shuck caddis emerger that has become a worldwide caddis hatch standard. It supports X-Caddis fly, Craig Mathews caddis, and emerger searches.
Imitates: Emerging caddis with trailing pupal shuck
Quick Reference
- Best Sizes
- #14-20
- Best Season
- Spring through fall
- Best Conditions
- All caddis hatch water — riffles, runs, tailwaters
- Water Temp
- 50-68°F
- Recommended Tippet
- 5X-6X
How to Rig It
Fish solo or as the trailer behind an elk hair caddis.
How to Present It
Drag-free drift with the shuck riding low in the film.
Why It Works
The trailing Z-lon shuck imitates a caddis pupa mid-emergence — trout target this stage heavily.
History
Designed by Craig Mathews and John Juracek at Blue Ribbon Flies in West Yellowstone.
Pro Tip
Carry X-Caddis in olive, tan, and black to cover any caddis hatch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the X-Caddis special?+
The trailing Z-lon shuck simulating an emerging caddis pupa.
Not sure if X-Caddis is right today?
Get a fly recommendation based on live water temp, flow, sky, and time of day for any river in the US.
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