The classic Walt’s Worm is already a simple and effective nymph, but this version brings two important upgrades that make it even more reliable on the water. First, the ribbing is made with UV Peacock Tinsel, which adds a fine sparkle and increases the fly’s visibility in deeper runs or slightly colored water. This subtle flash can be enough to catch the attention of a curious trout or grayling.
The second improvement is how the thorax is made: instead of using a plain tight dubbed fur behind bead, I build it with natural squirrel fur fixed in dubbing loop/split thread. This material has a beautiful mix of guard hairs and underfur that gives the fly extra movement and a slightly spiky, buggy profile. When the nymph sinks and starts drifting near the riverbed, these fibers pulse naturally in the current, adding life to an otherwise simple pattern.
To enhance this effect, I use the split-thread technique to create a soft, mobile collar. It’s a small detail, but one that makes the fly come alive—especially when jigged behind stones or slowly lifted during the drift. That little burst of movement often works as a trigger, convincing fish to strike even when they are selective or not very active.
Tying tip: pluck the extra fur to avoid overdressed collar!
In my experience, this upgraded version keeps all the strengths of the original Walt’s Worm—simplicity, speed, and versatility—but adds just enough attraction and mobility to make it stand out during tricky fishing days.
Materials:
- Hook -Demmon Supreme J100 Jig Hook size #16
- Thread I used is Sumo Power Thread Yellow – 50DEN
- Body made of Troutline Pure Squirrel Dubbing -natural eastern grey color
- Ribbing is made with Troutline Perdigon UV Tinsel – peacock
- Thorax: Squirrel dubbing fixed in split thread
- Tungsten : Gold color – micro slot type
Video:
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