The Chocolate Foam Back Emerger, also known as the Chocolate Thunder, is an essential tailwater fly here in Colorado. In this fly tying video, Ben Baxter gives us a step-by-step look at tying the Foam Back Emerger.
The Chocolate Foam Back Emerger is a must-have fly for our home waters along the South Platte River. Tie it in small sizes from 20 down to 24, and you’ll have a deadly pattern during these colder months when finicky trout key in on small midges. On slightly larger hooks, size 18 or 20 Foam Back Emergers are effective during a baetis (blue winged olive) hatch.
As its name implies, one of the key features of this pattern is the white foam post. This creates the appearance of a budding wing on an emerging mayfly. Additionally, the foam keeps this fly upright near the surface. This is perfect for those picky tailwater trout that aren’t eating adult flies on the surface, but rather targeting emergers just below or in the surface film.
Another noteworthy part of this fly is the tail. It can be tied without a tail in situations when slim, minimalistic patterns are best. But the tail creates the look of a trailing shuck on an emerging fly. When mayflies make the transition from nymphs into their adult form, they frequently get stuck in their pupal husk. Trout often target these struggling flies near the surface. In the video, Ben uses a sparkle emerger yarn, which is perfect for creating this effect.
You can purchase the Chocolate Foam Back Emerger, or scroll down for the recipe and links to the materials.
MATERIALS LIST:
· HOOK: Tiemco 2487 (#18 - #22)
· THREAD: 8/0 UNI-Thread (Dark Brown)
· BODY/THORAX: Wapsi Rabbit Dubbing (Brown)
· POST: Wapsi Fly Foam (1/16" [ 1.5mm] | White)
· RIB: Ultra Wire (XS | Copper)
· SHUCK/TAIL: Sparkle Emerger Yarn (Brown)
If you found this video helpful, please take a moment to like it on YouTube and subscribe to the Anglers All channel. Have ideas for a video you’d like to see? Let us know or leave it in the comments on the video!
If you have questions or need a hand getting started, we’re here to help. Visit us at the fly shop in Littleton. Or give us a call at 303-794-1104.
