Dry Flies
Dry Flies

Sparkle Dun

Craig Mathews' Sparkle Dun combines a deer hair fan wing with a Z-lon trailing shuck, bridging the gap between emerger and dun. It imitates the critical moment when a mayfly breaks free of its nymphal case and sits on the surface, vulnerable and irresistible.

How to Fish It

Outstanding for selective fish that refuse standard dries. The trailing shuck is the trigger — trout key on emergers more than fully formed duns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size Sparkle Dun should I use?

The Sparkle Dun is most commonly tied in sizes 14–20. Choose smaller sizes for clear water and pressured fish, and larger sizes for faster or off-color water.

What does a Sparkle Dun imitate?

The Sparkle Dun primarily imitates mayfly duns, emerging mayflies, BWOs, PMDs. Outstanding for selective fish that refuse standard dries. The trailing shuck is the trigger — trout key on emergers more than fully formed duns.

How do you fish a Sparkle Dun?

Outstanding for selective fish that refuse standard dries. The trailing shuck is the trigger — trout key on emergers more than fully formed duns.

Pattern Details

Category
Dry Flies
Sizes
14–20
Colors
Olive, Tan, Gray
Imitates
mayfly duns, emerging mayflies, BWOs, PMDs
Water Types
spring creek, tailwater

Target Species

rainbow troutbrown troutbrook troutcutthroat trout