Size 18 Griffith’s Gnats

Every angler knows the frustration: trout are dimpling everywhere, but you can't see a single bug on the water. That's the midge game — and the Griffith's Gnat is how you win it. This size 18 imitates not one midge but a cluster of them riding the surface film, which is exactly what those subtle sippers are eating.

Born on the technical waters of the West, the Gnat's peacock-herl body and grizzly hackle create a tiny, high-floating target that even the wariest tailwater trout will travel to intercept. It's at its best on slow pools, spring creeks, and winter tailwaters where midges are the only hatch for months at a time.

Fish it on the longest, finest tippet you own — 6X or 7X — with the gentlest presentation you can manage. Grease it well and let it drift drag-free through the rise forms. When nothing else gets a look, the little Gnat usually does.