Nymph

Leech

Stillwater streak pattern

TroutSubsurface

A long, undulating strip of marabou or rabbit fur on a heavy hook — it swims with a sinuous motion that no trout can mistake for anything other than an easy meal. Retrieve it slowly through weed beds and drop-offs, or let it hang and sink on a long leader. Leech patterns catch the biggest fish in any stillwater because big fish eat big food.

Fish this when

Fish it during early season and summer and autumn on stillwater. Use it when the naturals are about and fish are feeding seriously. Have it ready for selective moments.

Why it works

Leeches move through water with sinuous, lifelike motion — a silhouette that triggers predatory feeding even on dour days. Trout don't forget the taste once they've taken one.

Naturals it imitates