LeechDDH Leech
The DDH Leech is Stu Thompson's dubbing-loop leech pattern featuring Arizona Simi Seal dubbing and marabou for maximum movement. Built on a heavy wire hook with bead chain eyes, this pattern sinks to the strike zone quickly while maintaining a natural swimming action. The DDH (dubbing-loop design) creates a buggy, undulating profile that triggers aggressive strikes.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout, Bass
Overview
This tightlinevideo pattern by Stu Thompson showcases the effectiveness of dubbing loop construction for leech patterns. Arizona Simi Seal creates a translucent, spiky body that catches light and moves naturally in the water. The bead chain eyes add subtle weight while positioning the hook point up to reduce snags. The heavy wire hook provides durability for larger fish.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Heavy wire salmon/steelhead hook (Dai-Riki 899), #6
Thread: UTC 140 Denier, black
Eyes: Bead chain eyes, gold, medium
Tail: Woolly bugger marabou, olive
Body: Arizona Simi Seal dubbing, olive
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round with peak performance in spring and fall. The olive coloration matches natural leeches found in most waters throughout the seasons.
Presentation
Cast and allow the fly to sink before beginning a slow, erratic strip retrieve. The bead chain eyes create a jigging action on each strip. In moving water, dead drift through deeper runs and pools.
When to Use
Choose this pattern when targeting fish feeding on leeches in both moving water and stillwater. The dubbing loop construction creates a profile and movement that fish find irresistible.
Water Type
Versatile pattern effective in rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. In moving water, fish through deep runs and pool tailouts. In stillwater, work along weed edges, drop-offs, and structure.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 7.5-9 foot leader with 2X-3X fluorocarbon tippet. Use floating line with long leaders in shallow water, sink-tip lines for deeper presentations. Can be fished as a single fly or as the lead fly in a two-fly rig.
Visibility & Floatation
The bead chain eyes provide a moderate sink rate suitable for most fishing situations. The Simi Seal dubbing traps air bubbles initially, creating flash and sparkle before saturating. The olive coloration provides excellent visibility to fish while maintaining a natural appearance.
