NymphCasual Dress
The Casual Dress is a classic wet fly pattern with a proven track record of success. The combination of peacock herl, partridge hackle, and a touch of red silk creates a fly that is both attractive and imitative, able to suggest a variety of food items to the fish.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
The Casual Dress is a classic stonefly nymph pattern known for its buggy appearance and heavy profile, making it ideal for deep nymphing in fast currents. Its simple design with natural dubbing gives it a lifelike look that works well as a general attractor or stonefly imitation.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 3769, size #12–#16
Thread: Black Uni-Thread 8/0
Tail: Golden Pheasant Tippets
Body: Peacock Herl
Ribbing: Red Silk
Hackle: Partridge Feather
Fishing Tips
Season
The Casual Dress is a versatile pattern that can be used from spring through fall.
Presentation
This fly is typically presented on the swing, imitating an emerging insect or small minnow.
When to Use
Use the Casual Dress when fish are feeding subsurface, particularly during a hatch or when small minnows are present.
Water Type
This pattern is most effective in moving water.
Rigging Suggestions
The Casual Dress can be fished on its own or as part of a tandem rig. It can also be effective when fished under a dry fly as a dropper.
Visibility & Floatation
The Casual Dress sinks, and its natural colors and materials give it a lifelike appearance in the water. The touch of red silk adds a bit of flash and visibility.
