NymphPheasant Tail
The Pheasant Tail is a classic nymph pattern that is extremely effective at catching trout. It's versatile, imitating a wide range of mayfly nymphs, and is a proven pattern around the world.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
The Pheasant Tail is a timeless and highly adaptable nymph pattern known for its natural profile and effectiveness across a wide range of insect hatches. Variants include beadhead versions, flashback wingcases, and color changes to better imitate specific mayfly species or add visibility in different water conditions.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 3769, size #12–#20
Thread: Brown Veevus 14/0
Tail: Pheasant tail fibers
Body: Pheasant tail fibers wrapped forward
Ribbing: Fine copper wire
Thorax: Peacock herl
Wingcase: Pheasant tail fibers
Legs: Pheasant tail fibers
Resin Coating: Solarez Bone Dry UV resin
Fishing Tips
Season
This fly is most effective in the Spring, Summer, and Fall seasons when mayflies are most active.
Presentation
Fish this fly on a dead drift, with occasional twitches to imitate a nymph rising to the surface to hatch.
When to Use
Use the Pheasant Tail nymph when mayflies are active, or when nothing else seems to be working. It's a versatile fly that can be effective year-round.
Water Type
This fly can be used in both stillwater and moving water situations.
Rigging Suggestions
Try fishing this fly as part of a nymph rig, with a heavier nymph as the lead fly and the Pheasant Tail as the trailing fly.
Visibility & Floatation
This fly sinks and is not highly visible, so a strike indicator may be useful.
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