Hendrickson Dry
The Hendrickson Dry imitates the female Ephemerella subvaria, one of the East's earliest and most important spring mayfly hatches. Useful for searches like Hendrickson hatch fly pattern, spring mayfly dry fly, and best early-season trout dry fly.
Imitates: Female Hendrickson mayfly dun
Quick Reference
- Best Sizes
- #12-14
- Best Season
- Early to mid spring
- Best Conditions
- Afternoon emergences on freestones, 50-60°F water
- Water Temp
- 50-58°F
- Recommended Tippet
- 5X
How to Rig It
Single dry; pair with a Red Quill for the male phase.
How to Present It
Dead-drift down feeding lanes during the 1-4pm window when Hendricksons peak.
Why It Works
It nails the pinkish-tan body of the female dun — trout that ignore generic Adams will eat a true-to-color Hendrickson.
History
Named after A.E. Hendrickson, the fly was tied by Roy Steenrod on the Beaverkill in 1916 and remains a Catskill cornerstone.
Pro Tip
The hatch is short — 60 to 90 minutes. Be on the water by noon and ready to switch to spinners by 4pm.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Hendricksons hatch?+
Mid-April through early May in the East, when water hits 50-55°F. Look for afternoon emergences on freestone streams.
Not sure if Hendrickson Dry is right today?
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