LeechEZ Egg Suck'n Leech
The EZ Egg Suck'n Leech from Myers Flies Fly Fishing is a simplified take on the classic egg sucking leech pattern designed for salmon and steelhead. This beginner-friendly pattern combines a fluorescent fire orange bead with a dark marabou body to create the signature egg-and-leech profile that triggers aggressive strikes from spawning fish and opportunistic trout.
Fall, Winter, Spring
Beginner
Salmon, Steelhead, Trout
Overview
This Myers Flies pattern showcases how simple construction can produce highly effective flies. The egg sucking leech concept imitates leeches feeding on salmon and steelhead eggs, a common sight during spawning runs. Fish key in on this predator-prey relationship, making egg sucking patterns deadly during fall runs.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: 2X-long streamer/nymph hook, #6-12
Thread: Brown, 6/0 or 140-denier
Bead: Fluorescent fire orange, 1/8"
Tail: Marabou blood quill, dark brown
Body: SLF Prism Dubbing, chocolate brown
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during fall salmon and steelhead runs when egg patterns are productive. Also works well in winter and spring when trout continue to feed on leftover eggs.
Presentation
Dead drift through spawning gravels and tailouts where trout hold waiting to intercept drifting eggs. The marabou tail provides lifelike movement even on a dead drift presentation.
When to Use
Select this pattern during spawning season or when fish are actively feeding on eggs. Works equally well as a searching pattern when fish are keyed in on protein-rich food sources.
Water Type
Designed for moving water including rivers and streams. Most effective in runs, pools, and soft water adjacent to spawning areas.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish under an indicator or on a tight-line nymphing rig with 4X-5X fluorocarbon tippet. The bead provides adequate weight for most presentations without additional split shot.
Visibility & Floatation
The fluorescent fire orange bead creates a highly visible hot spot that mimics an egg while the dark marabou body suggests a leech. This combination triggers both opportunistic and predatory feeding responses.
