Euro NymphsMay ICU - Brown
The May ICU - Brown is a clever mayfly nymph designed by Norman Maktima, a signature tyer for Umpqua and long-time Team USA competitor. This quick-to-tie pattern features a slender body, CDC collar, and pearlescent cheeks that grab the attention of unsuspecting trout. The combination of natural materials and subtle flash makes it an effective searching pattern during mayfly activity.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
Designed by Norman Maktima, who has spent over two decades as a guide and competed for years on Team USA. The pattern's slender profile and CDC collar provide movement and lifelike appearance in the water. The marker ribbing technique adds segmentation without bulk. The pearlescent cheeks give just enough flash to draw attention without being overly flashy.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Umpqua XC400BL-BN jig hook, #14 (or Hanak H 400 BL, #14)
Bead: Slotted tungsten, 3.3mm (1/8"), copper
Thread: UTC 70 denier, wood duck
Tail: Spanish Coq de Leon fibers, pardo
Abdomen: SLF Spikey Squirrel Dubbing, rusty brown
Rib: Chartpak marker, delta brown (dark brown)
Cheeks: Veevus Pearl Tinsel, medium
Collar: CDC feathers, natural grey
Hot Spot: UTC 70 denier, fluorescent orange
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during spring through fall mayfly hatches, particularly when Baetis and other small mayflies are active. Works well from March through October in most trout waters.
Presentation
Fish with a tight-line euro nymphing technique, maintaining direct contact with the fly. Allow the fly to dead drift through likely holding water, using the sensitive leader to detect subtle takes. The tungsten bead gets the fly to depth quickly.
When to Use
Excellent as a point fly or dropper in a euro nymphing rig when trout are feeding on mayfly nymphs. Particularly effective during pre-hatch periods and when fish are holding in deeper runs and pockets.
Water Type
Best suited for moving water including riffles, runs, and pocket water. The slim profile and weight allow it to sink quickly and stay in the feeding zone in moderate to fast currents.
Rigging Suggestions
Use as a point fly on a euro nymphing setup with a long, sensitive leader. Also effective under an indicator or as a dropper below a dry fly. Pair with 5X-6X fluorocarbon tippet for clear water presentations.
Visibility & Floatation
The copper tungsten bead provides quick sink rate to reach feeding fish in deeper water. The CDC collar adds subtle movement while the pearl tinsel cheeks catch light and attract attention. The rusty brown coloration blends naturally with most mayfly nymph species.
