Partridge and Orange
The Partridge and Orange is one of the most famous soft hackle trout flies ever created. It is a deadly pattern for emergers and ascending insects, especially when trout are feeding just under the surface during caddis and mayfly activity.
Imitates: Emerging caddis, ascending pupae, and soft-bodied wet insects
Quick Reference
- Best Sizes
- #14-18
- Best Season
- Spring through fall
- Best Conditions
- Riffles, tailouts, caddis hatches, and subsurface feeding lanes
- Water Temp
- 46-64°F
- Recommended Tippet
- 5X-6X
How to Rig It
Fish it as a dropper behind a dry, in a soft-hackle pair, or alone on a tight-line swing.
How to Present It
Dead-drift first, then let it rise and swing at the end of the drift.
Why It Works
The partridge fibers pulse with tiny movements that imitate life better than many rigid modern materials.
History
A classic North Country spider, Partridge and Orange has fooled trout for generations on both European and American trout water.
Pro Tip
Do not overdress it. Sparse soft hackles almost always fish better than full ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I fish Partridge and Orange?+
Whenever trout are taking emergers or soft-bodied insects just below the surface film.
Not sure if Partridge and Orange 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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