Euro NymphsThe Picric Frenchie
A vibrant variation of the classic Frenchie featuring a UV chartreuse hot spot that creates an irresistible trigger point. Named after picric acid, known for its brilliant yellow color, this euro nymph uses bright chartreuse Ice Dub to maximize underwater visibility. Perfect for competitive fishing and technical presentations when fish need extra encouragement to strike.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Beginner
Trout
Overview
The Picric Frenchie builds on Lance Egan's popular Frenchie design by incorporating a brilliant UV chartreuse hot spot that excels in both clear and slightly stained water. The name references picric acid, a chemical compound famous for its intense yellow coloration. The UV properties of the Ice Dub thorax provide exceptional visibility to trout while maintaining the slim, natural profile that makes euro nymphs so effective in competition and technical water.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Hanak H 400 BL Jig Hook, #14
Thread: UTC Ultrathread 70 Denier, Fluorescent Chartreuse
Bead: Hanak Round+ Slotted Tungsten Beads, 3.5mm, Gold
Tail: Whiting Coq De Leon Euro Nymph Tailing Pack, Dark Pardo
Body: Pheasant tail fibers, wrapped
Thorax: Ice Dub, UV Chartreuse
Collar: Partridge feather
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during spring and fall Baetis hatches from March through May and September through November. Also productive during summer months in high-elevation streams and tailwaters where mayfly nymphs remain active year-round.
Presentation
Use tight-line euro nymphing techniques with a high-stick presentation. Cast upstream or across-stream and maintain direct contact with the fly throughout the drift. The jig hook design causes the pattern to ride hook-point up, reducing snags on rocky bottoms. Keep your rod tip high and follow the drift with subtle line adjustments to detect takes.
When to Use
Ideal when trout are feeding selectively on mayfly nymphs in clear water conditions. The bright chartreuse hot spot excels in overcast conditions, early morning, or late evening when visibility is reduced. Particularly effective when fish are holding deep in faster current and need a high-visibility attractor to trigger strikes.
Water Type
Designed for moving water, particularly freestone streams, tailwaters, and spring creeks. Excels in riffles, runs, and pocket water where trout hold in feeding lanes. The tungsten bead gets the fly down quickly in faster currents, while the slim profile cuts through the water column efficiently.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on a 9-12 foot euro nymphing leader with 5X or 6X fluorocarbon tippet. Use as the point fly in a two-fly euro rig with a lighter pattern as the dropper, or fish solo for maximum depth and contact. No indicator needed with tight-line techniques. Spacing of 18-24 inches between flies works well in most conditions.
Visibility & Floatation
The 3.5mm tungsten bead provides a fast sink rate, reaching depths of 3-5 feet quickly in moderate current. The UV chartreuse thorax creates a bright flash point that's highly visible to both fish and angler, making it easier to track underwater. The natural pheasant tail body maintains realism while the hot spot triggers aggressive takes. Slim jig-hook profile reduces water resistance for excellent drift characteristics.
