StreamersWoolly Worm
A classic pattern that can be tied in a variety of colors to imitate a wide range of aquatic and terrestrial insects. It's a great choice for beginners learning to tie their own flies.
Year Round
Beginner
Trout, Bass
Overview
The Woolly Worm is a classic, simple nymph or attractor pattern that uses chenille for the body and palmered hackle from head to tail for movement and profile. It's typically tied with or without a red yarn tail and can be weighted with lead wraps. The pattern is straightforward to tie and adaptable in various colors and sizes, making it a great confidence fly for new tiers and a versatile choice for many freshwater species.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: 3X-long streamer hook (here, a Lightning Strike SN3), sizes 10-14
Weight: Lead-free wire, .015
Thread: Black, 8/0 or 70-denier
Tail: Red Angora rabbit yarn
Body: Black Ultra Chenille, micro
Hackle: Grizzly saddle hackle
Fishing Tips
Season
This pattern can be used throughout the year.
Presentation
The Wooly Worm can be swung across current, stripped in still water, or even dead-drifted under an indicator.
When to Use
Use the Wooly Worm when fish are feeding on a variety of prey, as it can imitate a wide range of insects.
Water Type
This pattern works well in both moving and still water.
Rigging Suggestions
The Wooly Worm can be fished alone, or as part of a multi-fly setup. It can be fished on a floating line, or with a sink tip for deeper water.
Visibility & Floatation
The Wooly Worm sinks slowly, allowing it to be fished at a variety of depths. The high-visibility chenille body makes it easy to see in a variety of conditions.
