Euro NymphsTasmanian Devil
An aggressive attractor pattern featuring black marabou for maximum movement. Named for its wild, frantic action in the water, the Tasmanian Devil uses marabou at both tail and collar to create irresistible pulsing movement. The red wire rib adds a subtle hint of color to the dark profile.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Beginner
Trout
Overview
Designed by Fly Fish Food as a euro-style attractor nymph that excels in clear water conditions. The black marabou creates exceptional movement even in slower currents, while the red wire rib provides a subtle flash of color without overwhelming the natural profile. This pattern works particularly well when fish are feeding aggressively or when a more animated presentation is needed to trigger strikes. Can be tied in various colors, though black remains the most popular and effective.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Hanak H 400 BL Jig Hook, #14
Thread: UTC Ultrathread 70 Denier, Black
Bead: Hanak Round+ Slotted Tungsten Beads, 3.5mm, Black Nickel
Tail: Marabou, Black
Body: Ice Dub, Black
Rib: UTC Ultra Wire, Red, Brassie
Collar: Marabou, Black
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during spring runoff through fall when water temperatures are optimal and insect activity is high. Works particularly well in late spring and summer when stonefly nymphs are active. Remains productive into fall as trout feed heavily before winter.
Presentation
Dead drift along the bottom using tight-line euro nymphing techniques. The tungsten bead and jig hook keep the pattern riding hook-point up, reducing snags. Short, controlled drifts work best, allowing the marabou to pulse with current changes. Effective in pocket water and runs where the action can be exaggerated.
When to Use
Excellent searching pattern when no specific hatch is occurring. Use when trout are holding in deeper water or feeding aggressively. Particularly effective in off-color water where the dark profile and movement stand out. Works well during overcast conditions or low-light periods when fish are more willing to chase.
Water Type
Designed for moving water, particularly freestone rivers and streams with moderate to fast currents. Excels in pocket water, runs, and deeper pools where the tungsten bead gets it down quickly. The jig hook makes it ideal for fishing near bottom structure without constant snags. Works well in both clear and slightly stained water.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 9-12 foot leader with 4X-5X tippet in euro nymphing setup. Use as point fly with lighter nymph or perdigon as dropper. The 3.5mm tungsten bead provides sufficient weight for most situations without additional split shot. In deeper runs, can add micro shot 18-24 inches above fly. Works well in tandem rigs with smaller attractor patterns.
Visibility & Floatation
Sinks quickly due to tungsten bead, reaching depths of 3-5 feet rapidly. The black marabou creates significant movement and silhouette that's highly visible to fish even in deeper water. Jig hook design keeps fly oriented properly during drift. The Ice Dub body adds subtle sparkle without excessive flash. Red wire rib creates segmentation and a hint of color that attracts attention without spooking wary fish.
