Trico Spinner

The Trico Spinner is a precision dry‑fly pattern designed to imitate the Tricorythodes mayfly—commonly known as the Trico. These tiny mayflies hatch in dense swarms on many rivers and streams, creating some of the most technical and selective dry‑fly fishing of the season. This pattern represents the spent‑wing stage, when the mayfly lies motionless on the surface after mating and egg‑laying. Its defining feature is the use of polypropylene or similar synthetic fibers to form clear or semi‑transparent wings that closely mimic the delicate appearance of natural Trico spinner wings.
Tied almost exclusively in very small sizes—typically #18 to #26—this Spinner focuses on accuracy of silhouette and proportion rather than intricate detail. Its minimalist design is essential for fooling trout feeding on these tiny, spent insects.
Most anglers fish this pattern during early‑morning or late‑evening Trico events, presenting it with a soft, drag‑free drift to match the natural.