Euro NymphsLeggy Euro Copper John

The Leggy Euro Copper John is a variation of the classic Copper John nymph pattern that incorporates rubber legs for added movement. This fly excels in heavy current and gets down quickly to where the fish are feeding.

Season
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Difficulty
Advanced
Target Species
Trout, Steelhead
Leggy Euro Copper John - Image source: AvidMax
Image source: AvidMax

Overview

A hybrid Euro-style fly that incorporates rubber legs into a slim-bodied jig pattern. With a dark dubbed or wire-wrapped body and contrasting hotspot or bead, it's built for depth and motion—combining attractor and natural qualities in one fly.

Pattern Characteristics

Advanced Difficulty
Trout, Steelhead
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Fall
Winter
Imitates: Stoneflies
Variant of: Copper John

Materials

Hook: Daiichi 4647
Bead: MFC Jig Bead Tungsten Copper
Wire: Lead 0.10
Backing: Flashabou Tinsel and Scud Back 1/8" Black
Thorax: Strung Peacock Herl
Legs: MFC Centipede Legs Ylw/Blk/Red
Thread: Veevus 10/0 Black
Abdomen: UTC Wire Brassie Red

Fishing Tips

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Presentation

Cast upstream and let the fly drift naturally with the current.

When to Use

This fly is effective year-round but is especially productive when stoneflies are active.

Water Type

Ideally suited for fast-moving water.

Rigging Suggestions

Use with a Euro nymphing setup for best results.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly sinks quickly and is not designed for visibility. The black body can be hard to see in murky water, but trout seem to find it just fine.