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Sparkle DunDry Flyintermediate

Rocky Mountain West

Sparkle Dun

$3.50

Available Sizes#14 - #22
Color Variations
OliveTanGrayRusty

Craig Mathews tied this pattern in West Yellowstone because he watched too many trout refuse conventional dries and decided the problem was not the angler but the fly. The Sparkle Dun rides flush in the surface film with a trailing shuck that says 'vulnerable emerger' in the language trout apparently speak fluently. It catches fish that have already refused your Parachute Adams, which is simultaneously gratifying and insulting.

Quick Facts

TypeDry Fly
Difficultyintermediate
SeasonsSpring, Summer, Fall
Target SpeciesRainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Cutthroat Trout
Sizes#14 - #22
Best LocationsHenry's Fork, ID; Missouri River, MT; Green River, UT

Where to Fish It

Henry's Fork

ID · Spring Creek

Missouri River

MT · Tailwater

Green River

UT · Tailwater

Map unavailable. Locations for Sparkle Dun: Henry's Fork, ID; Missouri River, MT; Green River, UT

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