Euro NymphsSecret Squirrel CDC Jig
The Secret Squirrel CDC Jig is a buggy euro nymph that combines fox squirrel dubbing with CDC for exceptional movement underwater. The purple/violet color scheme with pearl ribbing creates an attractive profile that can act as both an imitation and attractor pattern. The jig hook design keeps the fly riding hook-point up, reducing snags in rocky bottom structure.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
Developed by Fly Fish Food in 2023, this pattern leverages the natural bugginess of fox squirrel dubbing combined with the lifelike movement of CDC dubbing. The unique purple/violet color scheme with pearl ribbing provides excellent visibility in various water conditions while maintaining a natural appearance. The Coq De Leon tail fibers add subtle movement and realistic segmentation. This pattern can be tied in various colors to match local preferences and water conditions.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Hanak H 400 BL Jig Hook, size #14
Thread: 8/0 UNI-Thread Waxed Midge, purple
Bead: Hanak Metallic+ Slotted Tungsten Beads, dark violet, 3.5mm
Tail: Whiting Coq De Leon Tail Feathers
Dubbing 1: Natural Furs Dubbing, fox squirrel
Dubbing 2: TroutHunter CDC Dubbing, black
Ribbing: Hends Pearl Round Ribbing 17, violet pearl
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round in moving water, particularly productive during spring and fall mayfly activity when trout are feeding heavily on nymphs. Works well in winter during midge hatches when fish are holding in slower pockets and runs.
Presentation
Use a tight-line euro nymphing technique with high-stick presentation. Allow the fly to drift naturally near the bottom with minimal drag. The tungsten bead provides quick sink rate, while the jig hook keeps it riding hook-point up through rocky structure. Dead drift is essential for natural presentation.
When to Use
Excellent searching pattern when no specific hatch is occurring. Most effective in clear to slightly stained water where the purple/violet coloration provides good visibility without spooking fish. Works well as a point fly during active feeding periods or when fish are holding near the bottom.
Water Type
Designed for moving water including freestone streams, tailwaters, and spring creeks. Particularly effective in riffles, runs, and pocket water where trout hold in feeding lanes. The jig hook design makes it ideal for fishing around boulders and broken bottom structure without constant snags.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish as the point fly in a euro nymphing setup with 10-12 foot leader and 4X-5X tippet. Can be paired with a lighter midge or emerger pattern as a dropper 12-18 inches above. The 3.5mm tungsten bead provides sufficient weight for most situations, but add split shot if needed to reach deeper runs and pockets.
Visibility & Floatation
Sinks quickly with the 3.5mm tungsten bead, reaching depths of 3-5 feet rapidly. The purple thread and pearl ribbing create subtle flash and visibility in the water column. The combination of fox squirrel and CDC dubbing creates a buggy, breathing profile that moves naturally with current fluctuations. The slender profile cuts through faster water efficiently while maintaining natural drift characteristics.
