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There are a few reasons why purple fly patterns are effective during spring runoff. First, purple is a highly visible color that can stand out even in murky water. As sediment and debris are swept downstream, fish may rely more on their sense of sight to locate food, and a bright purple fly can be just what they need to catch their attention.

One of the key techniques for success when fly fishing with midges is to use a midge cluster pattern. A midge cluster is a group of midges tied together on a single hook, creating a more realistic and attractive bait for fish. These flies mimic a group of midges mating or hatching at the same time, and are often effective at attracting fish when nothing else seems to be working.

Every angler remembers the day a foam fly changed how they fished. Maybe it was a guide who finally handed you something after watching you re-dry the same waterlogged dry for the tenth time in an hour. However it happens, the first time a big, ugly foam pattern floats through an entire day without a single re-treatment, it's hard to go back to anything else. If you've never tied one on, here's what you're missing, and why it's worth a spot in your box.