LeechEgan's Half-Wit Balanced Leech
Egan's Half-Wit Balanced Leech is Lance Egan's simplified approach to balanced leech design, using an Insta Jig tungsten head mounted backwards on a jig hook to achieve a semi-horizontal presentation without the complexity of adding a wire pin. This innovative technique creates a fly that's quicker to tie, more durable, and fishes nearly as effectively as traditional balanced leeches. A stillwater killer that has become a go-to pattern for competitive and recreational anglers alike.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
This Fly Fish Food pattern by Lance Egan demonstrates his philosophy of effective simplicity. By mounting the Insta Jig bead backwards (hook point through the larger hole), the fly achieves a more horizontal presentation than standard beaded flies. While not perfectly balanced like pin-style flies, the difference in fish-catching ability is negligible. The pattern is significantly faster to tie and far more durable. The black/red color combination has proven deadly, though Egan encourages tying in various color combinations for leeches, damsels, and minnow patterns.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Umpqua XC400BL-BN or Hanak H 400 BL Jig Hook, #12
Thread: 6/0 UNI-Thread Waxed, black
Bead: Insta Jig Tungsten Head, 1/8" (3.3mm), black
Tail: Fish Hunter Premium Strung Marabou, black UV
Tail Flash: Holographic Flashabou, black
Body: Arizona Diamond Dub, black red
Fishing Tips
Season
Year-round stillwater effectiveness with peak performance during spring and fall chironomid seasons when trout are accustomed to suspended presentations.
Presentation
Fish under a sensitive strike indicator set to the exact depth where fish are holding. The half-wit design rides more horizontal than a standard beaded fly, presenting a more natural profile. Subtle indicator movements impart lifelike action.
When to Use
Select this pattern for stillwater fishing when you want the benefits of balanced presentation without the added tying complexity. Excellent choice for production tying when you need to fill boxes quickly.
Water Type
Designed specifically for stillwater fishing in lakes, reservoirs, and ponds. Most effective suspended at depths of 8-20 feet over shoals, weed edges, and drop-offs.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 12-15 foot leader with 4X-5X fluorocarbon tippet under an adjustable strike indicator. Set indicator depth to match fish-holding zone. The Insta Jig head provides sufficient weight for most stillwater presentations.
Visibility & Floatation
The black Insta Jig head provides rapid sink rates while the UV marabou creates a visible silhouette. The holographic flash adds attraction without overwhelming the natural profile. The diamond dub body creates subtle sparkle throughout the fly.
