Chironomids have a complete life cycle or metamorphosis. Except for the egg, all stages are of interest to the fly-fisher. The larvae are slender worm-like creatures consisting of a segmented body with short prolegs at the anterior and posterior end of the body. Many species from this family utilize hemoglobin for oxygen uptake. A rarity among insects. This enables the larvae to live in oxygen-poor waters. Chironomid larvae are capable of living in waters in excess of 200 feet deep, although depths of less than 20 feet are common. The hemoglobin gives the larvae a distinct red or maroon coloration, hence the nickname, "bloodworms." Red and maroon are popular colors, but other colors include green, olive and combinations of red and green. The red and green larvae look like miniature barber poles. The majority of Chironomid larvae live in tubes they construct along the bottom between the mud water interface. Other species are completely free living, while still others spend their first molts or instars as free-living larvae then settle down in a permanent tube home. Larvae feed upon detritus and other vegetative matter. Chironomid larvae thrive in lakes with mud bottoms, but are adaptable to other environments. Moving about with a vigorous head to tail lashing motion coupled with rests in the fully extended position; the larvae are feeble swimmers. During turnover or windstorms Chironomid larvae are often swept off the bottom, and become easy prey for trout. Some Chironomid larvae go through two seasonal migrations. Moving from deep water to shallow during the spring and vice versa during the fall. These are prime times to fish larvae imitations. Chironomid larvae are active during low-light conditions as they leave the protection of their tubes to forage. I have had good success fishing larvae imitations early in the morning and into the evening. Depending upon the species, Chironomids can remain in the larval stage for up to two years. These species reach large sizes, up to 1 1/8 inches in length. Fly patterns typically range from #16 2 -XL to #8 3-XL. ~ PR

Credits: Excerpt from Fly Patterns for Stillwaters By Philip Rowley, published by Frank Amato Publications. We appreciate use permission.