The Dryemerger, originated by James Ferrin, is a unique pattern that has features of both an emerger and a dry fly. Its unique design utilizes the hackled portion of the fly, which floats on the surface of the water, to hold the emerger portion of the fly in consistent position just below the surface, a zone in which trout are known to readily take emerging insects. In addition to serving to suspend emerger imitation, the hacked portion of the fly will also serve as a strike indicator, allowing for better detection of subtle takes.

It is similar in function and design to a parasol emerger but may offer the advantages of increased durability and fewer tangles due to the fixed post. This concept can be extended for use in virtually any emerger pattern.

HOOK: curved hook
THREAD: 8/0
RIBBING: thread or fine wire
WING BUD AND POST: white antron (2 to 3 inches)
THORAX: peacock herl
HACKLE: black

Step 1: Make smooth, even wraps with the thread around the hook using the color you want the body to be.

Step 2: Tie in either thread in darker color or fine wire for the ribbing.

Step 3: Make even wraps for the ribbing and tie in.

Step 4: (Optional) Add a thin coat of UV Resin on the body. (Here, I use Deer Creek Diamond Fine).

Step 5: Tie in the antron post and secure it well – this will be the wing bud and post.

Step 6: Tie in 2 to 3 strands of peacock herl.

Step 7: Wrap the thorax with the peacock herl and whip finish it in front of the antron behind the hook eye. Do NOT cut off the thread yet.

Step 8: Secure the other end of the antron on a second vice / clamp.

Step 9: Take the thread and make smooth, tight wraps around the antron post about 2 inches. Then wrap back down about 1/3 of the way.

Step 10: Tie in the hackle to the post.

Step 11: Wrap the hackle around the post going up then down, then secure with thread and clip the hackle. Continue making wraps around the post toward the hook. Whip finish behind the eye of the hook.

Step 12: Trim the wing bud if needed, and the post – leaving a small amount of antron on top.