LeechBloody Black Leech

The Bloody Black Leech is a large, weighted streamer pattern that's designed to imitate a leech. The combination of black and red can trigger aggressive strikes from predatory fish.

Season
Fall, Spring
Difficulty
Advanced
Target Species
Trout, Bass
Bloody Black Leech - Image source: InTheRiffle
Image source: InTheRiffle

Overview

Tied with a black marabou tail and a body of black dubbing or chenille, this leech imitation adds a hot red or blood-colored collar to grab attention. Use a heavy nymph or streamer hook and optional bead or conehead for depth. The movement of marabou and the contrast from the hotspot make it deadly in stillwater or off-color conditions.

Pattern Characteristics

Advanced Difficulty
Trout, Bass
Stillwater
Fall
Spring
Imitates: Leeches

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 5263, size #8-#10
Thread: Black UTC 140
Tail: Black marabou
Body: Black chenille
Ribbing: Red wire
Hackle: Black saddle hackle
Head: Copper Bead

Fishing Tips

Season

The Bloody Black Leech can be effective any time of year, but is particularly good in the spring and fall months when predatory fish are actively feeding.

Presentation

This fly should be presented with a slow, erratic retrieve to imitate a struggling leech.

When to Use

Use this fly when fishing in still water environments, especially in areas known to hold large predatory fish.

Water Type

This pattern is primarily designed for still water fishing.

Rigging Suggestions

This fly can be used on a sinking line or with a floating line and a long leader to get it down deep.

Visibility & Floatation

The Bloody Black Leech is a sinking pattern, the bead head helps get it down to the depth where fish are feeding.