How to tie: a Classic Pheasant Tail Nymph

With: On The Fly NZ

The pheasant tail nymph is a classic fly pattern that’s a staple in any angler’s box. Here’s a step-by-step guide to tying this effective and timeless fly

Materials

• Size A12 hook (or A14/A16 for smaller versions)

• 70 denier brown thread

• Peacock herl

• Thin copper wire

• Pheasant tail feathers

• Whip finish tool

• Head cement

Steps

1. Prepare the Hook and Thread
   Start by securing your hook in the vise. Wrap the 70 denier brown thread around the hook, bringing it up to just before the hook begins to bend. This thread will be the base for the fly.

2. Attach Pheasant Tail Fibers
   Select 8-12 strands of pheasant tail. Tie these in at the start of the hook shank, keeping them tightly secured. Avoid excessive thread wraps to prevent a bulky head.

3. Secure the Copper Wire
   Cut a length of thin copper wire (about a finger's length) and tie it in, aligning it with the length of the hook shank. Bring the wire up to the same point as the pheasant tail.

4. Wrap the Pheasant Tail
   Bring your thread back just beyond the midpoint of the hook. Wrap the pheasant tail fibers around the hook shank, ensuring each wrap is close together and only wrapping in one direction. Thinner wraps are preferred.

5. Wrap the Copper Wire
   Wrap the copper wire in the opposite direction of the pheasant tail wraps. This cross-wrapping adds durability to the fly and prevents the pheasant tail fibers from unraveling.

6. Add More Pheasant Tail Fibers
   Cut a few more pheasant tail fibers, the same amount as used for the tail. Tie these in so that their thinner ends extend just beyond the eye of the hook.

7. Tie in the Peacock Herl
   Select about five long peacock herl fibers. Tie these in at the base where the pheasant tail ended. Wrap the herl around to form the fly’s abdomen and thorax. Make 2-3 wraps and then secure it tightly.

8. Create the Thorax and Legs
   Fold the remaining pheasant tail fibers over the peacock herl and secure them with several tight wraps. Trim off the excess pheasant tail fibers close to the hook. Ensure the head area is tidy and proportionate.

9. Finish the Fly
   Use a whip finish tool to create a neat head and secure the thread. Apply head cement to strengthen the head and prevent any unraveling.

10. Clean Up
    Gently tease out any stray peacock herl fibers to give the fly a clean appearance. The legs can be left with a bit of a natural, uneven look for added realism.