NymphSquirmy Wormy

The Squirmy Wormy is a simple yet deadly pattern that imitates an earthworm. It's incredibly effective in high, stained water when visibility is low and trout are seeking out large, easy meals.

Season
Year Round
Difficulty
Beginner
Target Species
Trout
Squirmy Wormy - Image source: Orvis
Image source: Orvis

Overview

An update to the San Juan Worm using stretchy, wiggly squirmy material for extreme movement. Tied simply on a curved hook with or without a bead, it's a controversial but highly effective pattern, especially in off-color or pressured water.

Pattern Characteristics

Beginner Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Year Round
Imitates: Earthworm

Materials

Hook: Dai-Riki 135, sizes #12-#16
Thread: 6/0 or 140 Denier, red
Underbody/overbody: Superfine Dubbing, red
Body: Red Sili Worm, half a strand

Fishing Tips

Season

Year Round

Presentation

Dead drift it like a standard nymph, or twitch it to imitate a live worm.

When to Use

Use in high, stained water or after a heavy rain when worms are likely to get washed into the stream.

Water Type

Both stillwaters and moving waters.

Rigging Suggestions

Can be fished alone, or as part of a multi-fly nymph rig. A tungsten bead helps get it down deep.

Visibility & Floatation

The Squirmy Wormy is a sinking fly. Its bright red color and wiggly movement make it highly visible in the water.

Additional Videos