NymphClouser Swimming Nymph

The Clouser Swimming Nymph is a versatile and effective pattern that can be fished in a variety of ways. It's designed to mimic a swimming nymph, making it irresistible to fish when presented correctly.

Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Clouser Swimming Nymph - Image source: Big Y Fly Co
Image source: Big Y Fly Co

Overview

Combining features of both nymphs and streamers, this fly is tied with marabou, soft hackle, and subtle flash over bead chain or small dumbbell eyes. It's a slim, suggestive profile designed to swing or strip like a juvenile baitfish.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Fall
Imitates: Nymphs
Variant of: Clouser Minnow

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 3769, size #12–#16
Thread: Olive Dun 8/0 Uni-Thread
Weight: .025 lead wire
Tail: Olive marabou
Body: Olive hare's ear dubbing
Ribbing: Gold wire
Wingcase: Pearl Flashabou
Legs: Partridge feather

Fishing Tips

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Presentation

Dead drift with occasional twitches to imitate a swimming nymph.

When to Use

When fish are feeding on nymphs, particularly in off-color water.

Water Type

Effective in both stillwater and moving water.

Rigging Suggestions

Use a tapered leader with a 5X tippet. Can be fished alone or as part of a multi-fly rig.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly sinks and is most effective when fished on the bottom. Its olive coloration makes it less visible, but the flash of the wingcase can attract fish.