Overview

The Umpqua Gulper Special in Olive is a slim, high-floating dry fly pattern specifically designed for stillwater fishing, particularly when trout are cruising and feeding delicately just beneath or on the surface. Originally developed for large, slow-moving fish in lakes like Hebgen, this fly has become a go-to pattern for those pursuing “gulpers”—trout that rise regularly and take insects softly and deliberately. The Gulper Special mimics small mayflies, midges, and even terrestrials depending on size and retrieve, making it a versatile option for both calm water and glassy surface conditions where presentation is everything.

Tied with a slim dubbed body, a delicate tail, and a high-vis wing post for tracking, this pattern rides high and stays visible even in the chop of a light breeze. The olive coloration provides a natural match for a variety of stillwater insect life, especially late-summer or fall olive mayfly hatches. Its minimalist construction allows for a drag-free drift and an ultra-realistic silhouette that doesn’t spook selective fish. Whether you’re sight-fishing to risers or casting blind over drop-offs and weed lines, the Gulper Special in Olive is a precision tool designed to earn eats when other dries fail.Read More +