Pheasant Tail Nymph

Hook: TMC 3769 Size #12-20

Thread: Black, brown, or olive 8/0

Tail: Pheasant tail fibers, wood duck tail (barred yellow and white)

Body: Pheasant tail fibers, wrapped

Rib: Fine copper or gold wire

Thorax: Peacock herl or choice of dubbing (brown Australian possum, olive-gray beaver) 

Wing Case: Pheasant tail fibers pulled over (Black or pearlescent Krystal Flash is also an alternative as well), biots (rust, olive)

Comments: This fly is a staple in almost every fly box.  It can be fished in almost any circumstance or condition - some times more successfully than others.  Earlier in the year, many anglers use smaller versions of this fly to try and imitate some of the smaller insect hatches that can occur.  During the winter periods size 18-22 are ideal.  It can be tied in a variety of colors depending upon the area and preference of the angler and trout.

Special Flies: I have had a great deal of success fishing olive and black PT nymphs as trailer patterns on larger nymphs throughout the season.  These are usually tied with an olive or black biot as the tail and pulled over to make a wing casing.  Fine gold or copper wire works great as the rib, and peacock or ostrich herl is a fine choice for the dubbing.