Euro NymphsGraffam's Hustler
Graffam's Hustler is a proven Euro nymph pattern that combines classic pheasant tail construction with modern competition techniques. The combination of natural pheasant tail body, peacock Ice Dub thorax, and subtle partridge collar creates an effective mayfly nymph imitation. Named after a skilled competition angler, this pattern has proven itself in both tournament and everyday fishing scenarios.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
The Hustler's design reflects the evolution of classic pheasant tail patterns into modern Euro nymphing styles. The jig hook and tungsten bead provide quick sink rates essential for competition fishing. The partridge collar adds subtle movement and life to the pattern while the copper rib creates segmentation and flash. The Dark Pardo Coq De Leon tails provide durability and natural coloration that matches various mayfly species.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Hanak H 400 BL Jig Hook, size #14
Thread: UTC Ultrathread 70 Denier, black
Bead: Hanak Round+ Slotted Tungsten Beads, 3.5mm, gold
Tail: Whiting Coq De Leon Euro Nymph Tailing Pack, Dark Pardo
Body: Pheasant tail fibers
Rib: UTC Ultra Wire, Copper, Brassie
Thorax: Peacock Ice Dub
Collar: Partridge feather
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during spring and summer mayfly hatches (March through September), particularly productive during Baetis and PMD emergences. Also works well in fall when smaller mayfly species are active. Can be fished year-round in tailwaters with consistent flows.
Presentation
Fish with Euro nymphing techniques using a tight line for maximum sensitivity and strike detection. Allow the fly to dead drift naturally along the bottom, maintaining contact throughout the drift. The jig hook design helps the fly ride hook-point up, reducing snags in rocky substrate while improving hook-up ratios.
When to Use
Ideal during mayfly nymph activity when trout are feeding subsurface in riffles and runs. The natural coloration and profile make it effective in clear water conditions. The peacock thorax and copper rib provide enough attraction to trigger strikes in slightly off-color water or during overcast conditions.
Water Type
Designed for moving water applications, particularly effective in riffles, runs, and pocket water of freestone streams and rivers. Works exceptionally well in competition settings where precise depth control and quick sink rates are critical. Best suited for medium to fast currents where mayfly nymphs are naturally present.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on a Euro nymphing leader with 4X-5X fluorocarbon tippet for optimal presentation and stealth. Use as a point fly with a lighter pattern as a dropper, or fish alone in shallow water. The tungsten bead provides sufficient weight for most situations, though additional split shot can be added 18-24 inches above the fly in deeper runs.
Visibility & Floatation
Sinks quickly due to the tungsten bead and slim profile, reaching depths of 2-4 feet rapidly. The natural pheasant tail coloring with copper flash provides excellent visibility to fish without appearing unnatural. The partridge collar adds subtle movement in the current. The jig hook orientation keeps the pattern riding upright, improving both snag resistance and hook penetration on the take.
