6 Pale Morning Dun Parachute Dry PMD Size 16 Flies Umpqua Fishing Fly
The Ultimate Guide to 6 Pale Morning Dun Parachute Dry PMD Size 16 Flies by Umpqua
1. Introduction: Why the Pale Morning Dun (PMD) Parachute Fly is a Must-Have
For fly fishing enthusiasts, few hatches are as eagerly anticipated as the Pale Morning Dun (PMD). These delicate mayflies emerge in late spring through summer, offering trout a tempting meal—and anglers a prime opportunity. The 6 Pale Morning Dun Parachute Dry PMD Size 16 Flies by Umpqua is a standout pattern designed to mimic this crucial insect stage with lifelike precision.
Whether you’re fishing Western rivers, spring creeks, or tailwaters, having a reliable PMD parachute fly in your box can mean the difference between a slow day and a banner one. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from types and selection tips to the best Umpqua PMD flies on the market.
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2. Types of Pale Morning Dun (PMD) Parachute Flies
While the Umpqua PMD Parachute Size 16 is a go-to, variations exist to match different conditions:
– Traditional Parachute PMD – Features a post for high visibility and a natural drift.
– Spinner PMD – Mimics the spent-wing stage after mating.
– Cripple PMD – Represents a struggling emerger, deadly in selective waters.
– Comparadun PMD – A no-hackle design for ultra-realistic presentations.
– Foam Parachute PMD – Adds buoyancy for rough water or picky trout.
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3. How to Choose the Best PMD Parachute Fly
Selecting the right PMD parachute fly depends on:
✔ Hatch Timing – Early season may require darker shades; mid-summer leans toward pale yellow.
✔ Water Conditions – Foam posts for choppy water; comparaduns for glassy flats.
✔ Trout Selectivity – If fish refuse standard patterns, try cripples or spinners.
✔ Visibility – Bright posts help track flies in low light or fast currents.
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4. Top 5 Umpqua PMD Parachute Dry Flies (Size 16)
1. Umpqua Signature PMD Parachute
Highlights: Ultra-realistic CDC wing, hand-tied perfection.
✅ Pros:
– Exceptional floatation
– Lifelike silhouette
– Durable hackle
❌ Cons:
– Slightly pricier
Best For: Technical anglers targeting selective trout.
2. Umpqua Foam Post PMD
Highlights: High-visibility foam post for tough currents.
✅ Pros:
– Stays afloat in rough water
– Easy to see
– Great for beginners
❌ Cons:
– Less natural than CDC
Best For: Fast rivers or low-light conditions.
3. Umpqua PMD Comparadun
Highlights: No-hackle, ultra-natural presentation.
✅ Pros:
– Nearly invisible on the water
– Perfect for spooky trout
– Excellent in slow pools
❌ Cons:
– Less buoyant than parachutes
Best For: Spring creeks and educated fish.
4. Umpqua PMD Spinner
Highlights: Mimics post-mating spent-wing mayflies.
✅ Pros:
– Deadly during evening spinner falls
– Realistic wing profile
– Great for late-season fishing
❌ Cons:
– Limited use outside spinner falls
Best For: Evening hatches and tailwaters.
5. Umpqua PMD Cripple
Highlights: Trapped-in-shuck emerger pattern.
✅ Pros:
– Triggers refusal-proof strikes
– Works during tricky transitions
– Highly effective in selective waters
❌ Cons:
– Sinks faster than standard dries
Best For: Picky trout during emergence.
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5. Buying Tips for PMD Parachute Flies
– Match the Hatch – Carry multiple shades (pale yellow to amber).
– Check Hook Quality – Fine-wire hooks for delicate presentations.
– Prioritize Floatation – Look for CDC or foam for long drifts.
– Buy in Bulk – PMDs are small and easily lost.
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6. FAQ: Pale Morning Dun Parachute Flies
Q1: When is the best time to fish a PMD parachute?
A: Late morning to early afternoon during summer hatches.
Q2: Why do trout refuse my PMD pattern?
A: Try switching to a cripple or spinner—fish may key on emergers.
Q3: How do I keep my parachute PMD floating?
A: Use floatant and false-cast to dry it periodically.
Q4: Can I fish a PMD parachute in fast water?
A: Yes, but opt for a foam post for better visibility.
Q5: What size tippet should I use with a Size 16 PMD?
A: 5X or 6X for a drag-free drift.
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7. Final Thoughts & Call to Action
The 6 Pale Morning Dun Parachute Dry PMD Size 16 by Umpqua is a must-have for any fly fisher facing PMD hatches. Whether you prefer foam posts for visibility or CDC for realism, having the right pattern can turn a slow day into an epic one.
Ready to stock up? Check out Umpqua’s top-rated PMD flies and hit the water with confidence! Tight lines! 🎣