Euro NymphsZola Bug
The Zola Bug is a euro-influenced dropper pattern designed specifically for stained and off-color water conditions. The black and purple color combination creates a striking attractor profile that fish can spot even in murky water or during runoff. Created by AJ at Fly Fish Food, this versatile pattern also excels in stillwater situations when indicator fishing deeper waters with limited light penetration.
Year Round
Beginner
Trout
Overview
The Zola Bug's strength lies in its bold color scheme that triggers strikes in low-visibility conditions. The metallic purple bead paired with purple Flex-Floss ribbing and UV lavender thorax creates a cohesive attractor profile. While designed for dirty water, this pattern offers unlimited color variations—experiment with different bead and dubbing combinations to match local conditions or personal preference.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Fulling Mill 5045 Jig Force Barbless, size #14
Thread: Semperfli Nano Silk Ultra Fine 100D 6/0, black
Bead: Hareline Slotted Tungsten, metallic purple, 2.8mm (7/64")
Tail: Coq De Leon, black (Hareline)
Rib: Fulling Mill Flex-Floss, purple
Thorax/Hot Spot: Ice Dub, UV lavender
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round, but particularly productive during spring runoff and after rain events when water clarity is reduced. The bold colors work in any season when visibility is compromised.
Presentation
Fish on a tight line euro rig or under an indicator in stillwater. The jig hook design helps the pattern ride point-up, reducing snags. In moving water, dead drift through likely holding areas with direct contact.
When to Use
Deploy when water is stained, off-color, or during runoff conditions. Also excellent for deeper stillwater fishing where light penetration is limited and fish need a highly visible target.
Water Type
Excels in both moving water and stillwater. In rivers, focus on runs, pools, and slower water where fish hold during high water events. In lakes, fish deeper zones under an indicator.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 4X-5X fluorocarbon tippet. Use as point fly in euro rigs or as dropper below a larger attractor. In stillwater, rig under an indicator with enough depth to reach holding fish.
Visibility & Floatation
The tungsten bead provides quick sink rate while the purple and UV lavender materials create maximum visibility in stained water. The contrasting black tail adds definition to the silhouette.
