Pink Albert

Angler Notes

Why it matters

When this hatch is on, trout can get selective to both the pink-toned adult and the vulnerable transition stages. Because it is a flatheaded mayfly from fast water, fish often feed where riffles soften into seams, slicks, and edges.

Imitation tips

Carry a simple progression: a slim clinger nymph, a soft-hackle or emerger, a pinkish upright dun, and a flush-floating spinner. Keep bodies lean, avoid overdressing the hackle, and match the overall rosy tone more than an exact shade.

Key life stages

NymphEmergerDun / AdultSpinnerSpent Spinner

Presentation

Start subsurface with short-drift nymphs through riffles and pocketwater. As adults appear, target seam lines and softer cushions with a dead-drift emerger or dun; if fish refuse high-riders, drop to a lower-floating or spent pattern and prioritize drag-free drifts.

Identification

Key features

A clinger-style mayfly with a flattened nymph built for fast current; adults are recognized by a slim mayfly profile and the soft pink-to-rose cast anglers associate with the hatch.

Size

Generally medium mayfly range; fish imitations around #12–16 to match local naturals.

Coloration

Nymphs are typically mottled and stream-camouflaged in tan, brown, or olive-brown tones; adults are usually pale to medium pink with lighter wings, while spinners often show a slightly richer rosy cast.

Similar bugs

Pale Morning DunFlavMahogany DunMarch Brown

Habitat

Water types

Freestone riversRiffled runsPocketwater streams

Substrate

Rocky bottoms, especially cobble and boulder structure where clinger nymphs can stay pinned in current.

Conditions

Clean, cool, well-oxygenated moving water with moderate to fast flow.

Eaten By

Brook Trout

Brown Trout

Bull Trout

Cutbow Trout

Mountain Whitefish

Rainbow Trout

Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout