Euro NymphsSexy Walts Worm
A jig-style evolution of the classic Walt's Worm featuring a CDC puff collar for enhanced movement. The buggy hare's ear body combined with gold ribbing creates a realistic segmented appearance that effectively imitates crane fly larvae and various aquatic worms. This pattern is quick to tie and highly effective in euro-nymphing presentations.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Beginner
Trout
Overview
This modern variation of Walt's Worm adds a CDC collar for increased movement and a more lifelike appearance in the water. The jig hook design helps the fly ride hook-point-up, reducing snags on the bottom while maintaining natural drift. The hare's ear dubbing provides a buggy texture that imitates various subsurface food sources. Tie in sizes #10-#16 to match different worm and larvae sizes in your local waters.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Fulling Mill 5045 Jig Force Barbless, size #12
Bead: Hareline Slotted Tungsten bead, gold, 1/8" (3.3mm)
Thread: UTC Ultrathread 70 Denier, tan
Body: Hare's ear dubbing, natural
Ribbing: UTC Ultra Wire, gold, small
Collar: CDC puff, natural
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round but particularly productive during spring runoff when worms and larvae are dislodged and actively moving. Excellent choice during high water conditions when trout are feeding opportunistically on drifting food sources.
Presentation
Fish with a tight-line euro-nymphing presentation or under an indicator in deeper runs and pockets. Cast upstream and allow the fly to dead drift along the bottom. The jig hook design creates subtle jigging action when the current varies. Use short line nymphing techniques in pocket water for maximum control.
When to Use
Most effective when no specific hatch is occurring and trout are feeding on bottom-dwelling organisms. Works well in off-color water or during periods of high flow. Excellent searching pattern when prospecting new water or when fish are holding tight to the bottom.
Water Type
Designed for moving water environments including freestone streams, tailwaters, and spring creeks. Particularly effective in riffle-run-pool sequences and pocket water behind boulders. The tungsten bead helps the fly reach feeding zones quickly in faster currents.
Rigging Suggestions
Use as a point fly in euro-nymphing rigs with 10-12 foot leaders and 4X-5X fluorocarbon tippet. Can also be fished as a dropper below a larger attractor pattern. The jig hook rides hook-point-up, making it ideal for bouncing along rocky bottoms without excessive snagging. No additional weight typically needed due to tungsten bead.
Visibility & Floatation
The gold tungsten bead provides fast sink rate, getting the fly into the strike zone quickly. Natural hare's ear coloring is visible to fish without spooking them in clear water. The CDC collar creates subtle movement and breathing action that triggers strikes. Slim profile cuts through current efficiently while the segmented body appears lifelike underwater.
