NymphHare's Ear Stonefly

Imitates a variety of aquatic insects, particularly stoneflies and large nymphs.

Season
Spring, Summer
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Hare's Ear Stonefly - Image source: FlyFishFood
Image source: FlyFishFood

Overview

This nymph combines the buggy appeal of the classic Hare's Ear with a larger, more robust profile to imitate stonefly nymphs. It's typically tied on a long shank hook with a dubbed body using natural hare's mask, a rib of gold wire, a dark wingcase (often turkey tail or synthetic), and rubber legs for lifelike movement. A bead or lead wraps add the weight needed to get it deep in fast water.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Imitates: Stoneflies, Large Nymphs

Materials

Hook: Fulling Mill 1550, sizes #10-#18
Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed Thread - 8/0 - Brown
Bead: Fulling Mill Tungsten Beads - Copper - 3.2mm
Tail/Legs: Flash Sale Hackle 77 - Whiting 4B Hen Saddle - Variant (Speckled Brown)
Lead: Lead Wire Spool - .015
Ribbing: UTC Ultra Wire - Amber - Small
Flash: Mirage Tinsel - Opal - Medium
Body: Arizona Mega Synthetic Dubbing - Dark Hare's Ear
Wingcase: Thin Skin - Mottled, Bustard Natural

Fishing Tips

Season

Spring, Summer

Presentation

Drift along the bottom

When to Use

During stonefly hatches or when nymphs are active

Water Type

Moving Water

Rigging Suggestions

Can be fished alone or with a smaller nymph

Visibility & Floatation

Sinks, natural materials blend well with riverbed