NymphMercury Baetis

The Mercury Baetis is a versatile nymph that imitates a variety of Baetis (Blue Winged Olive) nymphs. The mercury bead adds flash and weight, making it an excellent choice for fishing deeper pools or faster currents.

Season
Spring, Fall
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Mercury Baetis - Image source: Tailwater Junkie
Image source: Tailwater Junkie

Overview

A variation of the Baetis nymph, this fly includes a clear glass bead and slim thread body with fine wire ribbing. Subtle flash and a clean silhouette make it ideal for pressured fish during BWO hatches.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Moving Water
Spring
Fall
Imitates: Baetis nymphs

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 200R (18-22)
Bead: Silver-lined glass bead (extra small)
Thread: Olive UTC 70 Denier
Tail: Black Saddle hackle fibers
Abdomen: BWO Superfine
Wing case: Black Z-lon
Thorax: BWO Superfine
Legs: Black Z-lon

Fishing Tips

Season

This fly excels in the spring and fall during Baetis hatches.

Presentation

Dead drift this fly through deep pools or along seams.

When to Use

Use the Mercury Baetis when you see trout feeding on nymphs just below the surface.

Water Type

This fly is best used in moving water.

Rigging Suggestions

Try rigging this fly in a tandem nymph setup with a heavier point fly to get it down deep.

Visibility & Floatation

The mercury bead adds weight to help this nymph sink, and gives off a flash that can attract attention in a variety of water conditions.

Additional Videos