How to Tie the Diamond Dub Scud Fly | Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Fly Tying

Apr 12

The Diamond Dub Scud is an effective, simple fly pattern that works great for trout in local waters. With the right materials and a few key steps, you'll be able to tie a fly that’s sure to produce results.

Materials:

Hook: Size 14 (or your preferred size)
Lead wire
Thread: Olive or color of your choice
Partridge feather (for antennae)
Thin Skin (about 2.5mm strip)
Arizona Diamond Dub Nymph Blend (NBC 15)
Wire (for segmentation)
UV resin or Sally Hansen Hard-as-Nails (for coating)
Brush or Velcro (for brushing out fibers)

Step-by-Step Guide: Diamond Dub Scud Fly

1. Create a Thread Base

Start by laying down a solid thread base on the hook shank. If you'd like added weight and a proper profile, wrap lead wire along the body of the hook. Once the lead is secured, make sure the thread ends deep into the bend of the hook.

2. Tie in the Antennae

Select a Partridge feather that matches your color scheme. Strip all the fibers except the tip, which should be about the same length as the distance from the hook eye to the barb. Tie it in securely at the bend of the hook, wrapping it to hold it in place.

3. Attach Wire for Segmentation

Move the thread forward and tie in a piece of wire for body segmentation. Wrap the thread all the way back to the antenna, making sure the wire stays on the side of the hook facing you.

4. Prepare and Tie in Thin Skin

Cut a strip of Thin Skin about 2.5mm wide. Tie it in at the base of the antenna, making sure the strip is about halfway between the antenna and the hook. Wrap the thread forward, securing the Thin Skin in place.

5. Dubbing the Body

For the body, use Arizona Diamond Dub in a light amount, creating a thin dubbing noodle. Wrap the dubbing just in front of the lead wire and continue wrapping back towards the antenna. The body should be tapered, with the widest part in the middle.

6. Add Legs with Split Thread

Split your thread by spinning the bobbin counterclockwise. Use a sharp tool to split the thread into two strands, then insert a small amount of dubbing to form the legs. Twist the thread tightly and wrap it in spiral fashion along the body, covering the thread with dubbing.

7. Brush Out the Fibers

Once the body is wrapped, use a brush or Velcro to pull out the dubbing fibers. This will help form the legs and create a more natural look.

8. Form the Back of the Scud

Gently pull the Thin Skin over the top of the fly. Make sure it covers the back evenly but under some tension (but not too tight to avoid breaking). Tie off the Thin Skin tightly, ensuring it is secure and covers the entire back.

9. Add Segmentation with Wire

Wrap the wire forward in tight coils to create the segmented look. Be sure to pull out any trapped fibers for a cleaner appearance. Once you reach the head, tie off the wire and secure it.

10. Finish the Fly

Cover any remaining wire or Thin Skin with thread wraps, then whip finish the fly. Trim the thread and brush out any trapped dubbing. To finish, trim the legs to the right length, and apply a coat of UV resin or Sally Hansen Hard-as-Nails to the Thin Skin for a shiny, protective layer.

Fly Tying