Euro NymphsMil Spec Perdigon
A military-inspired olive perdigon designed for competitive euro nymphing. The slim profile created by the Hends Body Quill and UV resin coating allows for a fast sink rate while maintaining a natural appearance. The chartreuse hot spot adds visibility and attraction in clear water conditions.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
The Mil Spec Perdigon follows the modern euro nymph philosophy of minimal materials and maximum efficiency. The Body Quill creates an ultra-slim profile that cuts through currents easily, while the UV resin coating adds durability and weight for fast sinking. The fluorescent chartreuse hot spot provides a trigger point without overwhelming the natural olive coloration. Can be tied in various sizes from #14-#18 to match different water conditions.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Hanak H 450 BL Jig Hook, size #16
Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed Thread 12/0, olive
Bead: Hanak Metallic+ Slotted Tungsten, olive, 2.8mm
Tail: Coq De Leon fibers, medium pardo
Body: Hends Body Quill, olive
Hot Spot: Glo-Brite floss, fluorescent chartreuse
Coating: Solarez Bone Dry UV Resin
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round, particularly during spring Baetis hatches (March-May) and fall mayfly activity (September-November). Works well in winter when trout are holding deep and selective. Summer applications work best in high-altitude streams and tailwaters with consistent flows.
Presentation
Fish using tight-line euro nymphing techniques with a high stick presentation. Cast upstream at a 45-degree angle and lead the fly through the drift with minimal line on the water. The tungsten bead and UV coating provide quick sink rates for getting into the feeding zone fast. Use short, controlled drifts in pocket water and seams.
When to Use
Most effective when trout are feeding subsurface on mayfly nymphs or caddis pupae. Excellent choice in clear water conditions where the slim profile and natural coloring won't spook wary fish. The chartreuse hot spot works well in low-light conditions or stained water. Use as a searching pattern when no visible hatch is occurring.
Water Type
Designed for moving water, particularly freestone streams with moderate to fast currents. Excels in riffles, runs, and pocket water where quick sink rates are essential. Works well in tailwaters and spring creeks during technical presentations. Most effective in water depths of 2-5 feet where the fast sink rate reaches feeding lanes quickly.
Rigging Suggestions
Use as a point fly in a euro nymphing setup with 10-14 foot leader and 5X-6X tippet. Pair with a lighter dropper fly 12-18 inches above for a two-fly rig. No indicator needed for euro nymphing techniques—rely on sighter material or visual takes at the leader. Can also be fished under an indicator in deeper pools with 4X-5X tippet.
Visibility & Floatation
Sinks extremely fast due to the combination of tungsten bead, jig hook design, and UV resin coating. The slim profile minimizes water resistance, allowing the fly to reach depths of 3-4 feet within seconds. The olive coloration blends naturally with underwater environments while the chartreuse hot spot provides a visual target for trout. The UV resin creates a translucent sheen that mimics the natural gases in emerging nymphs.
