Caddis Poopah

How it's tied

The Caddis Poopah is tied on a curved shank hook, generally in sizes 14 to 18. A thread body forms the base, with fine wire or a contrasting color thread used to create segmentation. The body is usually wrapped with a soft, natural-colored dubbing, often incorporating some sparkle to imitate the glistening exoskeleton of the pupa.

A thorax of peacock herl or similar material is added to suggest the developing wings and legs of the emerging insect. Hackle fibers or similar material are used to imitate the antennae and legs. A bead head is often incorporated for added weight and to mimic the head of the caddis pupa.

What it mimics

As its name implies, the Caddis Poopah is designed to mimic the pupal stage of the caddisfly. This is a time when caddisflies are especially vulnerable, as they drift in the current before ascending to the surface to hatch.

Where it's used

The Caddis Poopah is particularly effective in rivers and streams where caddisflies are prevalent. This includes freestone rivers, spring creeks, and tailwaters. It's most effective during a caddisfly emergence, when large numbers of pupae are drifting in the water column or ascending to hatch.

This pattern is typically fished on a dead drift, either on its own or as part of a multi-fly rig. It can also be swung or stripped to imitate an actively emerging caddisfly.