NymphBreadcrust

The Breadcrust is a versatile and highly effective nymph pattern that imitates a variety of aquatic insects. Its unique 'rough' look, created by brushing out the dubbed body, gives it a natural and enticing appearance.

Season
Year Round
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Breadcrust - Image source: Charlie's Fly Box
Image source: Charlie's Fly Box

Overview

An old-school nymph pattern tied with a mottled turkey or grouse feather wrapped over a dubbed or yarn body to imitate caddis larvae. The feather should be softened or steamed beforehand. Keep the wraps tight and reinforce with wire or thread. A classic for spring creeks and tailwaters.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Year Round
Imitates: Caddis larvae, Scuds, Sowbugs

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 3769, size #12–#16
Thread: Brown Veevus 14/0
Body: Hare's Ear Plus dubbing in natural
Ribbing: Copper wire
Shellback: Pheasant tail fibers
Thorax: Peacock herl

Fishing Tips

Season

Year Round

Presentation

The Breadcrust is typically fished near the bottom of the river or stillwater body.

When to Use

Can be used anytime, but especially effective when caddis, scuds, or sowbugs are present.

Water Type

Effective in both stillwater and moving water bodies.

Rigging Suggestions

Can be fished as a single nymph or as part of a multi-fly nymph rig.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly is designed to sink and be fished near the bottom. The rough appearance of the body created by brushing out the dubbing makes it highly visible to fish.