Ice Cream Cone Chironomid (Midge Pupa)

The Ice Cream Cone Chironomid is a stillwater essential — a midge pupa pattern with a distinctive cone-shaped white bead head that imitates the air bubble trapped inside a chironomid pupa as it rises toward the surface. That air bubble is the key visual trigger that trout use to identify emerging chironomids, and the Ice Cream Cone replicates it perfectly.

When to Fish It

Year-round in stillwater, with peak effectiveness during spring and fall chironomid emergences. Set it under an indicator at the depth where trout are cruising — typically 6-20 feet depending on the lake. The key is patience and depth control. A slow hand-twist retrieve can trigger takes, but static presentations often work best. Also effective on rivers during heavy midge activity. Sizes 12-16.

Specs

• Type: Nymph — Chironomid pupa / midge imitation
• Hook: Curved hook, natural pupal profile
• Weight: Cone bead head — imitates emerging air bubble
• Best for: Trout — lakes, reservoirs, ponds
• Technique: Indicator fishing in stillwater, slow retrieve, static presentation

Why Anglers Stock This Fly

The white cone bead is what makes this pattern special — it perfectly replicates the air bubble that emerging chironomid pupae carry to the surface. Trout key in on that visual cue, and having a fly that matches it gives you a significant advantage over generic midge patterns. If you fish lakes, this is a must-have. Hand-tied with quality materials by tiers with over 30 years of experience.

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