StreamersGartside Sparrow

The Sparrow is a versatile fly that works well in a variety of conditions. Its lifelike movement and multi-species appeal make it a staple in the fly box.

Season
Year Round
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout, Bass
Gartside Sparrow - Image source: AvidMax
Image source: AvidMax

Overview

This soft-hackle nymph/emerger is tied with natural materials like pheasant tail, hare's ear, and partridge. It's intentionally messy and buggy, imitating a wide range of aquatic insects and is typically fished with a dead drift or slow swing.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout, Bass
Moving Water
Stillwater
Year Round
Imitates: Crayfish, Sculpin

Materials

Hook: Firehole 718 Size 10
Thread: UTC 70D Olive
Tail: Phesant
Body: Hareline Brown Olive & SLF Spikey squirrel natural fox blend
Rib: UTC Small wire - Brown
Collar: Phesant
Head: Phesant aftershaft feather

Fishing Tips

Season

Year Round

Presentation

Dead drift or strip with erratic twitches.

When to Use

When fish are feeding on crayfish or sculpin.

Water Type

Effective in both moving water and stillwater.

Rigging Suggestions

Fish it on a floating or sinking line depending on the water depth.

Visibility & Floatation

The Sparrow sinks and is highly visible due to its size and movement.