The Mountain Dew is an all-purpose nymph that is an excellent choice for scouting new water, where you may not be familiar with the bug life. Inspired by the flashiness and effectiveness of the Rainbow Warrior but with a slimmer profile and different color palette—and tied on a barbless, jigged hook with a tungsten bead—this fly is a staple pattern that can be fished year-round for even the most selective trout.

Our Mountain Dew effectively mimics caddis larvae and pupa though in smaller sizes can also pass as a midge larvae or baetis. From size 14 to size 20, it is an excellent choice when you’re not sure what to tie on. To better help your on-water decision making, try flipping rocks then tying on a size that’s representative of the bug life you see. 

Our favorite ways to fish it: 

• The bottom fly in a dry dropper rig

• Under an indicator - at either the point or trailer position

Type of Water: Rivers, Creeks 

Imitates: Mayfly, Caddis, Midge

Target Species: Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout 

Insect Life Stage: Larva

Pair it with: Green Machine, Funky P, QB Butano, Ol’ Dirty Worm, Quick Caddis