Fly Tying Instructions for a Gray Nymph

Fly Anglers Online considers the gray nymph as one of the 10 best nymphs for catching trout. This is a wet, or "swimmer" fly designed to be fished near the bottom. For that reason, it can optionally be tied as a weighted fly to help it sink quickly in deeper waters. It is most effective early in the season, from April to May. Some common variations include adding Antron -- a synthetic fiber -- or tinsel to the body fur to add sparkle and using ostrich or partridge feathers for the tail.

Things You'll Need

  • Hook (nymph style, Mustad 3906 or similar) size 6-12
  • Gray 3/0 to 6/0 thread
  • Body: muskrat fur, Antron (optional)
  • Tail: ostrich, partridge or grizzly hackle fibers
  • Hackle: grizzly hen
  • Lead wire (optional)
  • Fly tying vise and tools
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clamp the hook in the vise. If you are tying a weighted fly, wrap the shank with lead wire. Wrap the entire hook length with thread, ending at the bend. Tie in a tail of three to six partridge or ostrich feathers, about two-thirds of the shank length, at the bend.

    • 2

      Roll a small piece of muskrat fur without the guard hairs into a 2- or 3-inch long strand. If desired, roll in a string of Antron to add flash. Apply a coat of dubbing wax to the thread and tie in the end of the muskrat strand near the bend. Use your fingers to twist the strand onto the waxed thread, then begin to wrap it forward toward the eye. The strand will tend to loosen around the thread as you wrap it; stop to twist it back onto the thread periodically. Continue wrapping the body forward, leaving just enough room behind the eye for a head. Allow the strand to loosen away from the thread so you can wrap it against the shank to tie it off and cut off the excess.

    • 3

      Tie in a hackle of grizzly hen feather. Wrap the hackle four to six times and tie off. Wrap a small thread head just behind the hook eye, then tie it off with several whip finishes. Apply a drop of head cement to complete the fly.