LeechConehead Bunny Leech
The Conehead Bunny Leech adds a gold cone head to the classic rabbit strip leech design for faster sink rates and an enticing jigging action. The cone head creates a distinctive up-and-down swimming motion on the retrieve, triggering aggressive strikes from predatory fish. This versatile pattern excels when targeting larger trout in both moving water and stillwater environments.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout, Bass
Overview
This tightlinevideo pattern demonstrates how adding a cone head transforms the classic Bunny Leech into a more versatile searching pattern. The lead-free wire wrap behind the cone provides additional weight without affecting the natural movement of the rabbit strip. The dubbing noodle technique creates a seamless transition between the cone and the zonker strip body, producing a uniform profile that fish find irresistible.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: 2X-long streamer/nymph hook (Lightning Strike SN1), #2–#10
Thread: Black, 6/0 or 140-denier
Head: Cone head, gold, small
Weight: Lead-free round wire, .020
Tail/Body: Rabbit-fur zonker strip
Body Dubbing: Rabbit-fur dubbing, in a noodle
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round with peak performance during spring and fall when larger fish are actively feeding. Summer fishing is productive during low-light periods and after rain events.
Presentation
Cast across or slightly downstream and allow the fly to sink before beginning a strip-pause retrieve. The cone head creates a distinctive jigging action on each strip that triggers reaction strikes. Vary retrieve speed until you find what the fish want.
When to Use
Choose this pattern when targeting larger fish or when you need to get down quickly in deeper water. Excellent choice for prospecting new water or when fish are holding tight to structure.
Water Type
Versatile pattern for both moving water and stillwater. In rivers, swing through deep runs and pools. In lakes, fish along drop-offs, weed edges, and near submerged structure.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 7.5-9 foot leader with 2X-3X fluorocarbon tippet. Use a floating line in shallow water, sink-tip or full sinking line for deeper presentations. Can be fished as a single fly or as the lead fly in a two-fly rig.
Visibility & Floatation
The gold cone head provides rapid sink rates and serves as an attractor element. The rabbit fur maintains lifelike movement throughout the water column, pulsing even on the slowest retrieves. Size down the cone for shallower presentations.
