Euro NymphsASB Smacker
The ASB Smacker brings anti-static bag material from stillwater fishing to the rivers. This unique euro nymph features a subtle dual-luster body that adds flash without being overbearing, making it effective in both clear and off-color water. Designed by Cheech of Fly Fish Food, this pattern quickly became a go-to attractor nymph for euro nymphing.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
The ASB Smacker was developed by Cheech at Fly Fish Food to adapt the popular anti-static bag buzzer material for river fishing. The material creates a unique shimmering effect that mimics the natural iridescence of aquatic insects without the overwhelming flash of traditional tinsel bodies. This pattern works exceptionally well in various color combinations—experiment with different bead and thread hotspot colors to match local conditions.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Umpqua XC400BL-BN, size #16 (or Fulling Mill 5045 Jig Force Barbless)
Thread: UTC 70 Denier, red (or fluorescent orange)
Bead: Fulling Mill Slotted Tungsten, metallic light pink, 2.8mm (or silver nickel)
Tail: Spanish Coq De Leon, pardo
Body: Anti-Static Bag Buzzer Material (dual luster)
Rib: Semperfli Tying Wire, 0.2mm, march brown (or copper)
Marker: Uni POSCA Paint Marker, black (for wingcase markings)
Finish: Solarez UV Cure Resin, thin hard
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round as an attractor pattern. Particularly productive during early season when fish are looking for something different, and in winter when subtle flash can trigger strikes from lethargic trout.
Presentation
Fish on a tight line euro nymphing rig for maximum sensitivity. The slim profile and heavy tungsten bead allow for excellent contact with the bottom. Cast upstream and follow the drift with your rod tip to maintain direct connection.
When to Use
Deploy the ASB Smacker when standard nymphs aren't producing or when you need a subtle attractor pattern. Works well during midge hatches or as a searching pattern in unfamiliar water. The flash is subdued enough for pressured fish but visible enough to draw attention.
Water Type
Originally designed for rivers after proving effective in stillwater. Excels in riffles, runs, and pocket water where the flash catches light filtering through the surface. Also effective in deeper pools when fished on the point.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish as a point fly in a two-fly euro rig with a lighter dropper above. Use 5X-6X tippet and position 12-18 inches below your sighter. Can also be fished under an indicator in deeper or faster water.
Visibility & Floatation
The tungsten bead provides a quick sink rate to get into the feeding zone fast. The anti-static bag body creates subtle iridescence visible to fish without spooking them. The slim profile cuts through current efficiently.
