NymphGummi Grub
The Gummi Grub is a realistic larvae imitation designed by Barry Ord Clarke that uses nymph skin or latex to create a translucent, segmented body. The simple design only requires practice mastering the nymph skin wrapping technique. Once perfected, this little grub excels in pocket water and euro nymphing presentations for both trout and grayling.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout, Grayling
Overview
Developed by Barry Ord Clarke, this pattern can be tied in any color including pink, orange, grey, and natural. The nymph skin can be substituted with latex and regular rubber bands if you source the correct type. The translucent body and segmented appearance created by the ribbing make it an extremely effective larvae imitation. The weighted underbody ensures it reaches the feeding zone quickly.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Mustad Heritage C49S #12
Thread: Sheer 14/0 White
Under body: Lead tape
Rib: Clear Mono
Body: Natural Nymph skin
Coating: Veniard Brush coat
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round, as midge larvae are present in all seasons. Particularly productive during winter months when other aquatic insects are less active and fish focus on available larvae.
Presentation
Cast upstream and allow to dead drift naturally along the bottom using euro nymphing or tight-line techniques. The weighted body sinks quickly, making it ideal for pocket water presentations. Use a high-stick presentation to maintain contact with the fly.
When to Use
Best when fish are feeding on larvae near the bottom. Excellent searching pattern in pocket water, riffles, and runs. Works well when no visible hatch activity is present and trout are feeding opportunistically.
Water Type
Most effective in moving water, particularly pocket water, riffles, and runs of freestone streams. Also productive in tailwaters where midge populations are abundant. The quick-sinking design makes it ideal for faster currents.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 9-12 foot euro nymphing leader with 5X-6X tippet. Use as point fly in multi-fly euro nymphing rigs. The weighted body provides enough mass to act as an anchor fly. No additional weight typically needed due to lead tape underbody.
Visibility & Floatation
Sinks quickly to the bottom due to lead tape underbody. The translucent nymph skin body creates a realistic larvae appearance that's highly visible to fish. The clear mono ribbing adds subtle segmentation. The brush coat finish provides durability and slight flash.
