Scud / ShrimpAmorous Gammarus

A small freshwater shrimp imitation designed by Barry Ord Clarke that effectively imitates Gammarus species found in rivers and lakes. The pattern features a distinctive pink dubbing blend with a translucent body stretch shell back that creates a realistic crustacean appearance. Available in both pink and grey-brown color variations, this pattern has proven highly effective for selective trout feeding on shrimp.

Overview

Designed by renowned fly tyer Barry Ord Clarke, this pattern uses a custom dubbing blend that can be made in a coffee grinder combining pink and pearl Ice dubbing, squirrel fur, Antron, and waste Coq de Leon fibers left over from tying hackled flies. The grey-brown color variation is equally effective and may be preferred in certain water conditions. The translucent body stretch material creates excellent segmentation and lifelike translucency when wet.

Fishing Tips

Season

Year Round. Freshwater shrimp are available to trout throughout the year, making this pattern effective in all seasons. Particularly productive during early spring and late fall when other aquatic insects are less active.

Presentation

Fish with a slow retrieve or dead drift along the bottom using a floating or intermediate line. Allow the pattern to sink and retrieve with short, erratic strips to imitate the darting movement of natural shrimp. In stillwater, use a figure-eight retrieve with occasional pauses.

When to Use

Most effective when you observe trout feeding near the bottom or in the mid-water column. Excellent choice during midday when surface activity is minimal. Works well in clear water where trout can be selective. Use when traditional nymph patterns are being refused.

Water Type

Highly effective in both moving water and stillwater. In rivers and streams, focus on slower runs, pools, and eddies where shrimp congregate. In lakes and reservoirs, fish near weed beds, rocky shelves, and along drop-offs. Particularly productive in spring creeks and tailwaters with healthy shrimp populations.

Rigging Suggestions

Use a 9-12 foot leader with 4X-5X tippet for general fishing. In stillwater, fish under an indicator 3-5 feet deep or use a floating line with long leader. Can be fished as a dropper below a dry fly or larger nymph. Add small split shot 12-18 inches above the fly in faster current to reach the feeding zone.

Visibility & Floatation

Sinks slowly to moderately depending on wire weight used. The pink coloration provides excellent visibility to both fish and angler in most water conditions. The translucent body stretch shell back creates realistic light transmission similar to natural shrimp. The slim profile allows for natural movement in the water column.