StreamersSlumpbuster

A highly effective streamer that imitates a range of baitfish and other large aquatic prey. Its slim profile and heavy conehead make it perfect for getting down deep quickly.

Season
Year Round
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout, Bass
Slumpbuster - Image source: Charlie's Fly Box
Image source: Charlie's Fly Box

Overview

This classic streamer uses a pine squirrel zonker strip for the tail and overbody, combined with a weighted conehead and flashy underbody. It has a compact, pulsing profile that imitates leeches or baitfish and can be tied in olive, black, or rust for versatility.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout, Bass
Stillwater
Moving Water
Year Round
Imitates: Baitfish
Variant of: Woolly Bugger

Materials

Hook: #04-10 Tiemco 5262
Cone: Large Silver Tungsten Conehead
Thread: Black 6/0 UNI
Tail: Black Pine Squirrel Zonker Strip
Body: Blue Sparkle Braid
Rib: Blue Brassie Wire
Collar: Black Pine Squirrel Zonker Strip

Fishing Tips

Season

Year Round.

Presentation

Fish this fly with a strip-and-pause retrieve to imitate a wounded baitfish.

When to Use

This fly can be effective any time of day, but it's particularly good in low light conditions when baitfish are most active.

Water Type

This fly is effective in both stillwater and moving water, but it's particularly good in rivers and streams with strong currents.

Rigging Suggestions

Use a sinking line or weighted leader to get this fly down quickly.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly sinks and is moderately visible due to its size and olive color.

Additional Videos