NymphBead-head Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail
The Bead-head Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail is a highly effective nymph pattern that imitates a wide range of aquatic insects. It's easy to tie and its beadhead helps it sink quickly, making it perfect for fast-moving waters.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
This variation of the classic Pheasant Tail Nymph adds a soft hackle collar for subtle movement and a tungsten or brass bead for depth. Tied with pheasant tail fibers for the tail and body, a fine copper wire rib for durability, and partridge or hen hackle for the soft hackle, it blends realism with motion. It's a simple tie, but attention to sparse, even wraps and proportional hackle is key.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 3769, size #12–#16
Bead: Gold or copper bead, size to match hook
Thread: Brown 8/0
Tail: Pheasant tail fibers
Body: Pheasant tail fibers
Ribbing: Copper wire
Thorax: Peacock herl
Hackle: Partridge feather
Fishing Tips
Season
This fly is particularly effective in Spring and Summer when aquatic insects are abundant.
Presentation
Cast upstream and let it drift naturally with the current.
When to Use
Use this fly when fish are feeding below the surface, especially during insect hatches.
Water Type
Best used in moving water.
Rigging Suggestions
Can be used as a dropper off a dry fly or fished alone on a nymph rig.
Visibility & Floatation
The beadhead helps this fly sink quickly. The soft hackle gives it a lifelike movement, stimulating fish to strike.
