StreamersPartridge Bugger
The Partridge Bugger combines classic Woolly Bugger construction with a soft hackle partridge collar for enhanced movement and a more natural profile. This versatile streamer excels in both rivers and lakes, with the partridge collar adding lifelike breathing action that triggers aggressive strikes.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout, Bass, Panfish
Overview
The Partridge Bugger represents an evolution of the classic Woolly Bugger, incorporating soft hackle techniques to create a more nuanced presentation. The partridge collar provides subtle undulation and breathing action that standard palmered hackle cannot achieve. This pattern works exceptionally well when fish are pressured or feeding selectively, as the softer profile appears more natural in the water.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Firehole Sticks 718, Size #8
Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed Thread 8/0, Tan
Bead: Hareline Slotted Tungsten Beads, Gold, 7/64"
Tail: Hareline Wooly Bugger Marabou, Olive
Body: Hareline Woolly Bugger Hackle, Olive/Black, Large
Ribbing: UTC Ultra Wire, Gold, Brassie
Collar: Hareline Hungarian Partridge Feathers, Natural
Adhesive: Solarez UV Cure Resin, Bone Dry
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round, particularly productive during spring runoff and fall when larger prey is active.
Presentation
Fish with slow, steady retrieves interspersed with pauses to allow the partridge collar to pulse and breathe. In moving water, swing across current and let it hang in the seam. In stillwater, use a count-down-and-retrieve method along drop-offs and weed edges.
When to Use
Excellent choice for cloudy days, off-color water, or low-light conditions. Ideal when targeting aggressive feeders or searching water. Works well both as a lead fly or trailer in a streamer rig.
Water Type
Versatile in rivers, streams, and lakes. Particularly effective in slower pools, tailouts, and along structure where predatory fish ambush prey. In stillwater, fish near weed beds, drop-offs, and rocky shorelines.
Rigging Suggestions
Use 2X-3X tippet for trout, heavier for bass. In rivers, fish on a floating line with a 9-foot leader. In lakes, use a sinking tip or full sink line depending on depth. Weight can be adjusted by changing bead size.
Visibility & Floatation
Sinks at a moderate pace due to tungsten bead. The marabou tail and partridge collar provide substantial movement even at slow speeds. Olive/black coloration provides strong contrast in varied water conditions while maintaining a natural appearance.
