LeechSquirrel Leech
The Squirrel Leech is a Charlie Craven pattern from Charlie's Fly Box that uses pine squirrel zonker strips for exceptional movement and a natural profile. The rusty brown coloration with copper tungsten bead creates an earthy, buggy appearance that matches many natural leeches. The zonker strip serves double duty as both tail and collar, creating undulating movement throughout the entire fly.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
This Charlie's Fly Box pattern by Charlie Craven demonstrates the versatility of pine squirrel zonker strips for creating lifelike leech patterns. The natural guard hairs and underfur create a buggy profile with excellent movement in the water. The red flashabou provides a subtle hot spot that can trigger strikes without overwhelming the natural presentation. The pattern can be tied in various sizes from 12-16 to match conditions.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 2457, #12-16
Thread: UNI 6/0, rusty brown
Bead: Tungsten bead, copper, 3/32"
Flash: Flashabou, red
Tail: Pine Squirrel Zonker Strip, rusty brown
Collar: Pine Squirrel Zonker Strip, rusty brown
Fishing Tips
Season
Year-round effectiveness with peak performance in spring and fall. The rusty brown coloration matches natural leeches found in waters with decomposing organic matter.
Presentation
Dead drift through likely holding water or use a slow strip retrieve. The pine squirrel fibers create lifelike movement even at rest. Allow the fly to sink to the desired depth before beginning retrieval.
When to Use
Choose this pattern when fish are feeding on leeches and prefer natural, subdued presentations. Excellent choice for clear water where trout have time to inspect offerings carefully.
Water Type
Versatile pattern effective in rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. In moving water, fish through deep runs, pocket water, and pool tailouts. In stillwater, work along weed edges, drop-offs, and structure.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 9-12 foot leader with 5X-6X fluorocarbon tippet. The 3/32" tungsten bead provides adequate weight for most presentations. Can be fished as single fly or as dropper behind larger attractor patterns.
Visibility & Floatation
The copper tungsten bead provides moderate sink rates while adding a subtle attractor point. The rusty brown pine squirrel creates a natural silhouette that blends with the environment while the red flash provides a subtle trigger point.
