A subtle, natural caddis dry for smooth water and selective trout. The CDC Elk Caddis in Brown rides low in the film—shimmering CDC fibers breathe with each current pulse while the elk-hair wing adds just enough buoyancy and visibility for delicate, confidence-inspiring drifts.
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When it excels: Late spring through early fall; evening caddis activity; slick glides, gentle seams, and pressured fish
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Why it works: CDC traps micro-bubbles and moves naturally; the brown body matches common adult caddis while the elk wing keeps the fly trackable without bulk
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Pack size: 3 flies
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Targets: Trout (rainbow, brown, brook)
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Ready to fish: Sparse, clean tie with CDC for lifelike animation; consistent proportions for drag-free presentations
How to fish it
Use a 9–12 ft leader with 5X–6X and dead-drift along soft seams and foam lines; add tiny micro-twitches if fish inspect but refuse. For a stealthy dry-dropper in calmer water, tie 16–20" of light tippet to the bend and trail a small pupa or midge.
Care
Avoid gel/silicone floatants on CDC. After a dunk or fish, blot gently and revive with a powder/shake desiccant or amadou patch; keep the abdomen mostly untreated for a natural ride.
Satisfaction
30-day returns/exchanges.