Paradrake

Parachute extended-body mayfly

TroutSurface

A parachute mayfly with an extended body — the Paradrake sits flush in the film with an upright parachute hackle and a body that hangs below the surface, matching the natural mayfly dun exactly as it dries its wings. Used extensively on French limestone rivers during the May mayfly season.

Fish this when

During the mayfly hatch on chalk streams and limestone rivers — late May through June in France. For selective fish refusing simpler mayfly patterns.

Why it works

The extended body creates the full, realistic silhouette of a natural mayfly dun. The parachute hackle gives a visible post and holds the body flush in the film at the correct angle. Selective chalk stream trout take it where conventional upwing dries are refused.

Naturals it imitates