Fed’s Orange Bead Head Hares Ear
When it comes to reliable, all-purpose fly patterns, few can rival the enduring success of the Hare’s Ear Nymph. Known for its uncanny ability to imitate a wide variety of aquatic insects—especially mayfly nymphs—this pattern has long been a favourite among trout anglers across the globe. It’s earned its place as a staple in fly boxes thanks to its versatility, lifelike profile, and consistent results in streams, rivers, and still waters alike.
Fed’s Orange Bead Head Hares Ear takes this classic design a step further. It retains everything that makes the original pattern effective: the buggy texture of hare’s mask dubbing that mimics natural insect movement, and a weighted bead head that helps the fly get down quickly to where the fish are feeding. The bead also adds a subtle glint, which can catch a fish’s eye even in murky or fast-moving water.
What sets Fed’s version apart is the addition of a bold orange “hot spot” at the bead. This bright touch acts as a trigger point, making the fly even more visible and enticing—especially in low-light conditions or when fish need a little extra incentive to strike. The result is a fly that not only blends in with the natural forage but also stands out just enough to provoke a reaction.
When to Fish It
This pattern shines year-round and is particularly effective:
- During mayfly hatches or general nymph activity
- In riffles and runs where natural drift is key
- When fish are holding deep and need a reason to commit
- Try it as the lead fly in a two-nymph rig or under a dry in a hopper-dropper setup.
Whether you’re targeting pressured trout in a clear alpine stream or searching for feeders in a deeper pool, Fed’s Orange Bead Head Hares Ear is a modern twist on a time-honoured pattern that belongs in every angler’s kit.
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Materials
- Hook: Size 14.
- Bead: 5/64 Fluoro orange.
- Weight: 6 turns .015 Lead free wire.
- Thread: Light tan Sheer 14/0.
- Body: Whitlock Red Squirrel Thorax and Natural Hare ear mix.
Tying Instructions
- Slide on the bead and crimp the barb on your hook.
- Wrap 6 turns of lead-free wire behind the bead to add weight. Push the wire wraps forward into the bead to help seat it securely.
- Secure your tying thread behind the bead and wrap a smooth thread base down the hook shank.
- Create a dubbing loop, then add your 50/50 dubbing mix into the loop.
- Spin the loop to form a dubbing rope, then wrap a tapered, slightly bulky body up the hook shank. Tie off and trim the loop.
- Whip finish behind the bead.
- Use a dubbing brush or Velcro to tease out the fibres, giving the fly a buggy, natural appearance.
