NymphCopper John
The Copper John is a popular nymph pattern that's known for its ability to sink quickly. Its flashy profile and realistic silhouette make it an effective attractor pattern that can fool even the most selective trout.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
A modern nymph tied with a flashy wire body (typically red, copper, or green), split biot tail, peacock thorax, and white biot wingcases over a heavy tungsten bead. Lead wire underbody helps it sink fast—ideal for deep nymphing.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 3769, #12-#18
Thread: UTC 70 Denier, color to match body
Weight: Lead wire, .020 for sizes #12-#14, .015 for sizes #16-#18
Tail: Goose biots, color to match body
Abdomen: Copper wire, size to match hook
Wingcase: Thin Skin or similar material, coated with Solarez Bone Dry UV resin for glossy finish
Thorax: Peacock herl
Legs: Partridge feather fibers
Fishing Tips
Season
The Copper John can be effective year-round, but it's especially productive in the spring and fall when stoneflies and mayflies are active.
Presentation
This fly can be fished on its own, or as part of a multi-fly rig. It works well in both stillwater and moving water environments.
When to Use
Use the Copper John when you need to get down deep quickly, or when fish are keying in on stoneflies or mayfly nymphs.
Water Type
This pattern can be effective in both stillwater and moving water environments.
Rigging Suggestions
Try fishing this fly on a dead drift, either under an indicator or as part of a Euro nymphing rig.
Visibility & Floatation
The Copper John sinks quickly and is designed to be fished near the bottom. The use of a UV resin on the wingcase gives it a glossy finish that can catch the light and attract fish.
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