Euro NymphsThe Blowtorch
The Blowtorch is a hot spot jig nymph combining peacock herl with fluorescent orange accents for maximum attraction. The tungsten bead and jig hook design create a quick sink rate and natural jigging action. This pattern's irresistible color combination makes it effective even when no specific hatch is occurring.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
Developed by Fly Fish Food, The Blowtorch leverages the proven attraction of hot spot nymphs with the natural appeal of peacock herl. The fluorescent orange bead and hot spot provide a visual trigger point that draws strikes, while the peacock body maintains a realistic silhouette. The red wire ribbing adds subtle flash and durability. This pattern can be tied in various sizes to match different water conditions and fish preferences.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Hanak H 450 BL Jig Hook, size #16
Bead: Hanak Metallic+ Slotted Tungsten, fluorescent orange, 2.8mm
Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed Thread 12/0, black
Tail: Coq De Leon fibers, dark pardo
Body: Peacock herl
Ribbing: UTC Ultra Wire, red, small
Hot Spot: Glo-Brite floss, fluorescent orange
Thorax: Ice Dub, peacock
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round, particularly during spring and fall mayfly hatches. Works well in winter when bright attractors help fish locate flies in cold water. Summer fishing is productive in high-gradient streams where trout key on larger nymphs.
Presentation
Use a tight-line euro nymphing technique for best results, allowing the jig hook to ride point-up and reduce snags. Short-line nymphing in pocket water and seams is highly effective. Cast upstream and maintain contact through the drift. The tungsten bead provides quick sink rate for reaching feeding zones rapidly.
When to Use
Excellent searching pattern when no hatch is evident. Deploy when fish are holding deep in runs and pockets. The hot spot design works well in off-color water or low-light conditions. Particularly effective during periods of high competition pressure when trout have seen standard patterns.
Water Type
Best suited for moving water including freestone streams, tailwaters, and pocket water. Works exceptionally well in faster riffles and runs where the jig action is most pronounced. Target deeper slots, behind boulders, and along current seams.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish as the point fly in a euro nymphing rig with 2X-3X tippet for durability. Can be paired with a smaller, lighter nymph as a dropper 12-18 inches up the leader. Adjust leader length based on water depth, typically 1.5-2 times the water depth. No split shot or indicator needed in most euro nymphing applications.
Visibility & Floatation
Sinks rapidly due to the 2.8mm tungsten bead, reaching depths of 3-5 feet quickly in moderate current. The fluorescent orange bead and hot spot provide excellent visibility for tracking the fly's position. The jig hook design keeps the pattern riding point-up, reducing bottom snags. The peacock and dark materials create a natural subsurface profile that doesn't spook wary fish.
