NymphBlue Wing Olive Quill Nymph
The Blue Wing Olive Quill Nymph is a highly effective fly that imitates a common aquatic insect in its nymph stage. Its realistic body and exact proportions make it a go-to nymph pattern for many anglers.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
The Blue Wing Olive Quill Nymph is a slender, realistic mayfly imitation that excels during BWO hatches. Its segmented body, typically made from stripped peacock or dyed quill, creates a lifelike profile that works well in clear, pressured water where subtlety is key.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Daiichi 1560, size #16–#20
Bead: Tungsten bead, 2mm, silver
Thread: 6/0, fire orange
Tail: Medium Pardo Coq de Leon, sparse
Abdomen: Peacock quill, Golden olive, stripped
Collar/thorax: Squirrel dubbing, dark brown
Hot Spot: Tying thread
Fishing Tips
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Presentation
Dead drift it along the bottom, similar to a natural nymph.
When to Use
When mayflies are active and trout are feeding subsurface.
Water Type
This pattern excels in moving water like rivers and streams.
Rigging Suggestions
Tie it on a dropper off a dry fly or use it in a traditional nymphing rig.
Visibility & Floatation
This fly sinks to imitate a nymph drifting in the current. It's not highly visible, so watch the end of your fly line or your indicator closely for strikes.
