LeechDiamond Jig Leech
The Diamond Jig Leech is a Fly Fish Food pattern that combines the effectiveness of Arizona Diamond Dub with a jig-style presentation. The matte black tungsten bead and black red diamond dub create a dark, buggy profile with subtle flash that triggers strikes from trout in both moving water and stillwater. Built on a barbless jig hook, this pattern rides point-up to reduce snags.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
This Fly Fish Food pattern by Cheech showcases the effectiveness of Arizona Diamond Dub for creating buggy, sparkle-filled leech patterns. The black red color combination provides a dark base with subtle red highlights that become visible as the fly moves through the water. The matte black tungsten bead adds weight without excessive flash, allowing the diamond dub body to provide all the attraction needed.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Umpqua XC400BL-BN (or Hanak H 400 BL Jig Hook), #8
Thread: Danville 140 Denier Waxed Flymaster Plus Thread, black
Bead: Fulling Mill Slotted Tungsten Beads, matte black, 3.8mm
Tail: Nature's Spirit Premium Bugger Bou, black
Body: Arizona Diamond Dub, black red
Fishing Tips
Season
Year-round effectiveness with peak performance during low-light conditions when the subtle flash of the diamond dub becomes more visible to trout.
Presentation
Dead drift through likely holding water or use a slow strip retrieve. The diamond dub body catches light and creates flash with every movement. Allow the fly to sink to the desired depth before beginning retrieval.
When to Use
Choose this pattern when fish are responding to dark, buggy profiles with subtle flash. Particularly effective in slightly stained water where the sparkle helps trout locate the fly.
Water Type
Versatile pattern effective in rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. In moving water, fish through deep runs, pocket water, and pool tailouts. In stillwater, work along weed edges and structure.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 9-12 foot leader with 4X-5X fluorocarbon tippet. The 3.8mm tungsten bead provides adequate weight for reaching deeper holding water. Works well as a point fly or anchor fly in multi-fly rigs.
Visibility & Floatation
The matte black tungsten bead provides rapid sink rates without flash. The black red Arizona Diamond Dub creates a distinctive silhouette with internal sparkle that catches light as the fly moves through the water column.
