Scud / ShrimpSimple Scud
The Simple Scud is a basic but effective fly that's designed to mimic the small freshwater crustaceans that fish love to eat. It's a reliable choice in any water where scuds are present, and the simplicity of the design makes it a good pattern for beginners to try.
Year Round
Beginner
Trout
Overview
A quick and effective scud imitation tied with dubbing wrapped around a curved hook, with a shellback of scud back or thin skin, and ribbed with wire. Add a resin coat to the shell for shine and durability. Excellent for stillwater or spring creeks.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Standard emerger hook (here a Dai-Riki 125), sizes 12-18
Thread: 70 Denier or 8/0, light olive
Antennae: Sow Scud dubbing, smoky olive
Rib: Ultra Wire, small, gold
Back: Thin Skin, tan and black fly speck
Body and Legs: Sow Scud dubbing, smoky olive
Fishing Tips
### Season
Year Round
### Presentation
Dead drift near the bottom.
### When to Use
Whenever scuds are present in the water, which is typically year round.
### Water Type
This fly works well in both stillwater and moving water.
### Rigging Suggestions
Use a standard nymph or scud rig.
### Visibility & Floatation
This fly sinks and is intended to be fished on or near the bottom. The UV resin shell adds a bit of shine that can help attract fish.
