In this week’s “How to Tie” video feature, Savage Flies ties a mayfly nymph that every winter angler should carry this season, the Skip Nymph.
Learn About This Fly:
Difficulty: Easy
If you’re in the Northeast of the United States, you should be aware that winter is well underway. The cold spell we’ve had the past weeks has officially interrupted the trend in previous years of not getting a good freeze until the new year; a good sign for ice fisherman but not so great for those throwing flies. Trout will inevitably be less inclined to eat larger food items with the dropping temperatures, which is where a technical nymphing box will become your best friend. Add the Skip Nymph to your arsenal this winter regardless of whether the cold temperatures stay or for when spring rolls around.
Tying this pattern shouldn’t create any headaches. If you can tie a Pheasant Tail Nymph, you can master this fly with a few attempts even as a novice. Try a variety of sizes and colors depending on visible hatches or nymphs found under rocks in the shallow areas. Adding a hot spot behind the hook eye is another small variation that can change the tides of an outing. Enjoy tying the Skip Nymph as a batch fly and as one that can be fished outside the frigid months of winter.
Pairing this with another nymph in tandem is the most common method of use. When on the water, be sure to add a weighted nymph or split shot to get your flies deep to feeding zone. Mayflies are always on the menu no matter the season and this winter is the perfect opportunity to prove simple flies often work best. Fish the Skip Nymph with confidence in the coming months and don’t be afraid to add your own unique twist to find what works best in your water!
Ingredients:
- Hook: #10-18 2x long nymph
- Thread: Black, or to match body
- Tail: Three pheasant tail fibers
- Body: Vinyl D-rib, various colors
- Wingcase: Pheasant tail fibers
- Thorax: Hare’s mask, color to match nymph
Now you know how to tie the Skip Nymph!
Video and ingredients courtesy of Savage Flies.
Last Updated on December 20, 2024 by Zane Jeka
