LeechHerman's Leech

Herman's Leech is a highly effective streamer pattern known for its ability to attract big fish. It has a long, slim profile that accurately mimics a leech in the water, with the addition of a flashy body to attract attention.

Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout, Carp
Herman's Leech - Image source: InTheRiffle
Image source: InTheRiffle

Overview

This weighted streamer uses black or burgundy rabbit fur and a simple dubbed body for max movement and durability. Fished with a strip retrieve, it's especially effective in lakes and slow rivers when leeches are active along weed lines or bottoms.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout, Carp
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Fall
Imitates: Leeches

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 5263, size #2–#6
Bead: Brass or Tungsten, Sized to Hook
Thread: UTC 70 Denier, Olive
Body 1: Medium Ultra Wire, Red
Body 2: Pine Squirrel Zonker, Olive
Flash: Flashabou, Copper
Glue: Loon UV Fly Finish

Fishing Tips

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Presentation

Cast and retrieve with a slow, steady strip.

When to Use

When fish are feeding on leeches, usually after a rainstorm when leeches get washed into the water.

Water Type

Effective in both still and moving water.

Rigging Suggestions

Fish it on a sinking tip line to help it get down to the bottom where leeches are usually found.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly sinks slowly and is highly visible in clear waters. The rabbit fur on the body gives it a lifelike swimming motion.