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flyfysher
Zug Bug fly pattern
Peacock body · mallard wingcase · View the pattern reference ↗

FlyFysher

Nymph / Pattern notes

Zug Bug

Peacock herl, a barred wingcase, and soft legs create a dark searching nymph.

At the vise
Beginner friendly
Common sizes
#10–16
From hook to fly

At the vise.

4 illustrated steps

Work through the numbered steps in order. Use the written materials and proportions as your guide; select an image for a closer look.

  1. Zug Bug, step 1: Tail and rib

    Tail and rib

    Start thread and tie a short peacock-fiber tail at the bend. Attach silver tinsel and several peacock herls.

  2. Zug Bug, step 2: Body

    Body

    Twist the herls together and wind a full abdomen. Spiral the tinsel forward to reinforce it, then secure.

  3. Zug Bug, step 3: Legs

    Legs

    Tie in a hen feather and make one or two turns ahead of the body. Sweep fibers back and secure.

  4. Zug Bug, step 4: Wingcase

    Wingcase

    Tie a short mallard tip flat over the front of the body, pointing back. Trim butts, whip finish, and cement.

Beyond the bench

On the water.

Drift through seams and pools as a general nymph. Keep the peacock body full without filling the hook gap.

Tied by independent makers

Find your Zug Bug.

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Recipe references

Materials and tying methods may vary between versions. Compare the sources below for this dressing.

Portrait reference

Pattern dressings vary; use the written recipe for exact materials and proportions.

ZUG BUG NYMPH — Cyberfly Fly Fishing Products ↗

For the same fly box.

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