NymphNewman's Micro Matcher
Newman's Micro Matcher is a detailed Baetis nymph imitation that bridges the gap between technical tailwater patterns like the RS2 and leggy attractor patterns like Pat's Rubber Legs. Developed by Walter Newman for the selective trout of Colorado's South Platte River, this pattern features a slim thread body with wire ribbing, a Thinskin wingcase, and three sets of Senyo's Shaggy Dub legs that create subtle movement. The UV resin coating accentuates the silhouette and adds durability.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Advanced
Trout
Overview
This Walter Newman pattern tied by Charlie Craven from Charlie's Fly Box represents an innovative hybrid approach to Baetis nymph design. Newman grew up fishing Colorado's South Platte River and developed this pattern to combine the slim profile of technical tailwater patterns with the leg movement found in larger attractor nymphs. The pattern's most challenging aspect is placing the three sets of ultrafine Shaggy Dub legs evenly and perpendicular to the shank. The synthetic legs create water resistance that causes the fly to move more naturally in the current. The tail is tied long and cut blunt to replicate the thicker tail fibers of natural mayfly nymphs. The UV resin top coat creates a clean silhouette and adds significant durability to this delicate pattern.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 101, #18-22
Thread: Nanosilk 30 Denier (Semperfli), olive
Tail: Mayfly Tails, blue dun
Rib: Wire (UTC), silver extra-small
Abdomen: Thread (Nanosilk), olive
Wingcase: Thinskin, black
Thorax: Superfine Dubbing, adams gray
Legs: Senyo's Shaggy Dub, brown
Coating: Solarez UV Resin, thin hard
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during Baetis hatches in spring, fall, and even winter. Blue-winged olives are prevalent on overcast, drizzly days when other insects are less active.
Presentation
Fish with a dead drift in the water column, maintaining contact to detect subtle takes. The leggy design provides natural movement even on a dead drift.
When to Use
Select this pattern when trout are feeding on Baetis nymphs, particularly on technical tailwater fisheries where fish see significant pressure. The realistic profile and subtle movement can fool educated trout that refuse simpler patterns.
Water Type
Designed for moving water, particularly tailwaters and spring creeks where Baetis are abundant. Works well in slower pools, eddies, and flat tailouts where trout can inspect flies carefully.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on a light nymphing rig with 6X-7X fluorocarbon tippet. Works well as a trailing fly behind a larger pattern like a stonefly or leech. Newman recommends pairing with a Higa's SOS or Gunslinger May as a lead fly with a midge trailer.
Visibility & Floatation
This is a subsurface pattern designed to drift in the water column. The olive coloration matches natural Baetis nymphs while the UV resin coating adds a subtle sheen. Available in a beadhead version with a 1.5mm tungsten bead for deeper presentations.
