Brown Drake Flies

Ephemera simulans
Regarded as one of the most exciting and predictable hatches to fish in the U.S. Rockies and beyond, the brown drake is one of the largest mayflies to emerge in the spring to summer months. They are known for their impressive size, with some specimens growing up to three inches in length. Brown drakes typically emerge from rivers and streams in the late spring and early summer, providing a crucial food source for fish during this time. Anglers use a variety of techniques to imitate the brown drake's distinctive silhouette, including dry flies and nymphs. While brown drake hatches can be relatively short-lived, they can be incredibly prolific, with large numbers of insects appearing on the water at once, creating a feeding frenzy for fish and a thrilling experience for anglers.