Pattern Library
Pale Morning Dun fly pattern
Dry · #13 of 129

Pale Morning Dun

Also known as: PMD

Imitates: Ephemerella mayfly adult

Quick Reference

Best Sizes
#16-18
Best Season
Late spring through midsummer
Best Conditions
Midday hatches on cool summer days, 55-65°F
Water Temp
55-65°F
Recommended Tippet
5X-6X

How to Rig It

Single dry, often with a small Pheasant Tail dropper 18" below.

How to Present It

Dead-drift through the riffle's tail and into flats where fish hold for spinners.

Why It Works

The PMD is the dominant Western mayfly hatch from June through August — when it's on, it's on, and trout eat little else.

History

PMDs are several Ephemerella species. The pattern is essentially a pale-bodied parachute or comparadun.

Pro Tip

Watch for spinner falls in the morning — a PMD spinner pattern in the same size will out-fish the dun by 3-to-1 during the fall.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time of day do PMDs hatch?+

Late morning through early afternoon, with spinner falls in the morning the next day.

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