The Best Anglers Never Stop Learning

The Best Anglers Never Stop Learning

Nymph

San Juan Worm

Insect Species Icon Annelid
Difficulty Icon Easy - < 1 Min
Water Category Icon Coldwater

Tying Video

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Tying Recipe
  • Hook: Down Eye, Fine Wire, 2X Wide, 2X Short
  • Thread: UTC 70 Deneir, Red
  • Body: Fine Velvet Chenille, Red

The San Juan Worm doesn’t have any substitutions for obvious reasons. One package of the chenille necessary will make you countless flies, so if you don’t have any you should absolutely invest in some.

This pattern can be tied in any color the chenille is offered in, but some popular colors are red, brown, pink, and orange. You can also make a flashier version by tying it with sparkle braid in any of the recommended colors. If it needs some extra weight you can add a bead of your weight preference as well.

This pattern has saved the day for many anglers plenty of times. If nothing else seems to be getting the fish all hot and bothered, see if this bug doesn’t jump their bones. Having a few variations, and sizes in your box can make for an incredible day out on the water. This fly is a great beginner bug for those new to tying and fly fishing. There shouldn’t be any excuses to not have a box bursting with these dudes.

There isn’t just one situation where it’s a good idea to fish the San Juan Worm. In fact it’s a great pattern for times when the water is high and dirty, like runoff; as well as being a great pattern for crystal clear water flowing at a normal pace. Fish are always in the mood for it, so tie one on!

Annelid

Regional Hatch Chart Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Region: West, Northwest, East, Southeast, Midwest
Annelid
Sizes: #10 - #16

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