Marabou Nymph

This is a pretty simple and
straightforward nymph. What makes it different is the marabou herl
used for the body.
Hook: Mustad 9671 (2XL wet fly), 8-14
Tail: Straight dark hair (moose, horse mane, human hair, etc)
Body: Marabou herl (long)
Wingcase: Wild turkey tail feather slip
Throat: Grouse body plume fibers
Thread: Monocord
If you've ever tied a nymph before,
there is nothing here that varies. If you haven't, then refer to a
good nymph tying manual. There are many available. Lay down a
foundation and cement. Tie in 3 straight tail hairs, then marabou
herl. Wrap thread forward to mid-shank. Wrap herl to mid-shank and
secure. Tie in turkey tail slip. Wrap thread forward, then continue
with herl. A slight taper, thickening toward the eye, is recommended.
Tie off, then fold turkey slip forward, tie off and trim excess slip
and herl. Tie in grouse fibers for the throat. Finish with a wrap
knot. Cement head and wingcase. Allow to dry thoroughly.
The one advantage of this nymph over
others it the motionof the body when wet. The marabou fibers of the
herl are constantly alive in the water, giving a very good impression
of gills. This is one detail that will often trigger a bite when
other nymphs won't. Plus, they are relatively inexpensive to tie.
They make very good working nymphs, no crying shame when they are
snagged on structure. A weed guard is optional for heavy cover.
Fish them much as you would any
unweighted nymph, and don't be afraid to let them crawl at a very
slow speed.