LEECH LOGIC
Not fond of leeches? These patterns will have you loving them
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The world’s most popular fly, the Woolly Bugger, is a credible leech imitation (image: Umpqua Fly Merchants)FISHING
While almost every fly angler has chucked a Woolly Bugger at some point, many don’t realize how versatile leech patterns actually are, with many presentation options. In rivers, the easiest tactic is to swing them like a wet fly. That is, cast across and quarter downstream, letting the fly swing across the current on a tight line. You can also dead-drift them like a nymph, bouncing near bottom, with or without an indicator.
In ponds or lakes, on the other hand, simply cast out a leech pattern and let it sink, then retrieve it slowly and steadily with occasional pauses. Again, you generally want it fairly close to bottom where natural leeches typically lurk. If the fly isn’t heavily weighted, a sinking or sink-tip line can help get it down. Stillwater is also where the Balanced Leech shines. Rig it under a strike indicator, cast it out, and just let it sit there, with the wind or very slow lake current moving it around. If you’re like me, and lack the patience for this, you can give the fly little twitches, and even slowly retrieve it.
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Whether you intend to swing, drift or simply float them around on a teeny bobber, leech flies really are must-haves for the well-stocked fly box. Just try not to think about how the naturals make you feel, and focus on how much the fish love ’em.