Euro NymphsSilver Bullet Baetis
The Silver Bullet Baetis is a sleek, fast-sinking euro nymph designed by Lance Egan for picky trout. Its drab olive and brown coloration closely mimics natural Baetis nymphs without flashy hot spots. Highly effective as a dry-dropper, under an indicator, or in euro nymphing rigs.
Spring, Fall
Beginner
Trout
Overview
Designed by Lance Egan to complement the Iron Lotus and Thread Frenchie with a more natural, subdued color palette. The Silver Bullet Baetis intentionally lacks hot spots, making it ideal for technical situations where fish are selective. The drab coloration better matches the true appearance of aquatic insects. Simple construction with few materials makes it quick to tie and highly durable.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Hanak H 400 BL Jig Hook, #16
Thread: UTC Ultrathread 70 Denier, light olive
Bead: Hanak Round+ Slotted Tungsten Beads, 3.0mm, silver
Tail: Spanish Coq De Leon, Pardo
Rib: Semperfli Tying Wire, 0.2mm, march brown
Thorax: Ice Dub, peacock black
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during spring Baetis hatches from March through May and fall hatches from September through November. Also productive year-round in tailwaters with consistent midge and mayfly populations. Works well in cold-water fisheries where Baetis are present throughout winter months.
Presentation
Cast upstream and allow to dead drift naturally along the bottom with a tight line for direct contact. When fishing as a dry-dropper, hang it 12-18 inches below a buoyant dry fly. In euro nymphing rigs, use as a point fly with lighter patterns as droppers. The fast-sinking tungsten bead gets it into the feeding zone quickly.
When to Use
Best during Baetis and Blue-Winged Olive hatches when trout are feeding selectively on natural-looking nymphs. Effective when fish refuse flashier patterns with hot spots. Works well in clear water conditions where realistic coloration is critical. Excellent choice for educated trout in high-pressure waters.
Water Type
Primarily designed for moving water including freestone streams, tailwaters, and spring creeks. Particularly effective in riffles and runs where Baetis nymphs are prevalent. Works well in pocket water and along current seams. Can be used in stillwater near weed beds during mayfly activity.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 9-12 foot leader with 5X-6X tippet for delicate presentations. Excellent as a dropper 12-18 inches below a size 14-16 dry fly for dry-dropper setups. In euro nymphing rigs, use as the point fly with a lighter nymph as dropper. Can be fished alone under an indicator with micro shot 12-18 inches above the fly.
Visibility & Floatation
Sinks quickly with the 3.0mm tungsten bead, reaching depths of 2-4 feet rapidly in moving water. The slim profile and light materials cut through current with minimal resistance. The drab olive and brown coloring provides excellent visibility to fish while remaining natural and non-threatening. The silver bead offers subtle flash without being overly bright.
