(Acroneuria, classenia)
Characteristics
These large stoneflies are similar in appearance to their larger Salmonfly cousins except they are a couple of hook sizes smaller and they are lighter in color. They are a dark golden amber with a lighter underbelly. The most common species emerge along with or just after the Salmonflies. Their emergence usually covers a longer period. Another species emerges on the South Fork of the Snake in late summer and early autumn.
Timing of Hatches
Henry’s Fork – May 25 through June 30
Madison River – June 25 through July 20
South Fork – June 25 through July 20 & August 15 through September 15
Habitat
Medium to fast, oxygen rich water with rocks and boulders
Comments
Nymphs often emerge at night or during the early morning hours. Adults don’t always have wings. Many males and some females of the late season species are entirely wingless or they have very small wings rendering them impossible to fly. These species complete their mating ritual on the bank and scurry across the water to lay eggs. Late in the summer trout lay in wait to target these large morsels as they scamper across the water.
Patterns
Tan Rubberlegs, Golden Stone Nymph, Henry’s Fork Golden Stone, Madam-X, Golden Stone Hedge Hog, Elden’s Ant
Hook Sizes
8, 10 & 12