Swimming Scud
Fly: Andy Simon, photograph: Hans Weilenmann
Hook: size 12-scud model, with a flattened shank
Thread: Dark red 6/0 uni-thread
Weight: lead wire, wrapped around entire shank
Rib: Small red ultra wire
Shellback: Plastic bag, cut to shape, with a coat of Softex over it
Body: Olive synthetic living fiber
Note: Contrary to popular belief, scuds do not have a curved position as they swim. The only time a scud takes up a curved position is when it’s dead, or tumbling down a rushing stream, trying to find a foothold. So, for this scud imitation I use a scud hook, flattened out so it doesn’t have any bend. Why you ask do you still use a scud hook, and not a normal nymph hook? Because the gap of a scud hook is larger, giving a better chance to hook this fish…simple as that.

To fish this fly, cast it out in front of cruising fish, and let it sink until it gets down to their level. Now, begin to strip it in using brisk, 3-6 inch pulls. Often times, you will not feel a take with this pattern, so when you feel any change in the resistance on your line, strike. Many fish will take this fly and swim towards you, so the line will become easier to retrieve, if this happens, you must use a strip strike, to pull as much line in so you make contact with the fish.


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© 2004 Hans Weilenmann
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