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Lateral view of a Female Hexagenia limbata (Ephemeridae) (Hex) Mayfly Dun from the Namekagon River in Wisconsin
Hex Mayflies
Hexagenia limbata

The famous nocturnal Hex hatch of the Midwest (and a few other lucky locations) stirs to the surface mythically large brown trout that only touch streamers for the rest of the year.

Artistic view of a Perlodidae (Springflies and Yellow Stones) Stonefly Nymph from the Yakima River in Washington
This one seems to lead to Couplet 35 of the Key to Genera of Perlodidae Nymphs and the genus Isoperla, but I'm skeptical that's correct based on the general look. I need to get it under the microscope to review several choices in the key, and it'll probably end up a different Perlodidae.
27" brown trout, my largest ever. It was the sub-dominant fish in its pool. After this, I hooked the bigger one, but I couldn't land it.
Troutnut is a project started in 2003 by salmonid ecologist Jason "Troutnut" Neuswanger to help anglers and fly tyers unabashedly embrace the entomological side of the sport. Learn more about Troutnut or support the project for an enhanced experience here.

Updates from May 26, 2004

Closeup insects by Troutnut from Miscellaneous Wisconsin in Wisconsin

Male Ephemerella invaria (Ephemerellidae) (Sulphur) Mayfly Spinner from unknown in Wisconsin
I caught this one as a dun and he molted into a spinner in my room.

Updates from May 25, 2004

Closeup insects by Troutnut from Miscellaneous Wisconsin in Wisconsin

Female Epeorus vitreus (Heptageniidae) (Sulphur) Mayfly Spinner from unknown in Wisconsin
I collected this one as a dun, and she molted into a spinner in my room.

Updates from May 23, 2004

Closeup insects by Troutnut from the Namekagon River and Miscellaneous Wisconsin in Wisconsin

Male Stenonema vicarium (Heptageniidae) (March Brown) Mayfly Dun from the Namekagon River in Wisconsin
This is the only Heptageniid mayfly I saw hatch on May 24, 2004, and luckily it floated right by me.

Edit: Gonzo confirmed most likely vicarium 06.21.12
Male Baetidae (Blue-Winged Olive) Mayfly Spinner from unknown in Wisconsin
I love the shape of this guy's eyes.
Female Baetidae (Blue-Winged Olive) Mayfly Spinner from unknown in Wisconsin
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