How to Tie the Micro Bugger Streamer for Wild Trout in Small Streams
With: Savage Flies
Here’s a step-by-step guide for tying the micro bugger pattern, designed for small streams targeting wild rainbows and brook trout. This pattern is quick to tie, utilizes just a couple of materials, and is perfect for those backcountry fishing trips.
Materials Needed:
Hook: J Stockard 430 (3x long, multi-purpose curved shank)
Weight: .015 lead wire
Thread: Black or matching color
Body: Marabou (color of choice)
Hackle: Ginger hen (feather)
Bead: Optional (based on preference)
Step-by-Step Guide: Tying the Micro Bugger Streamer
Secure the Hook and Add Weight
Begin by placing your hook in the vise and adding weight. Wrap eight to nine turns of .015 lead wire behind the hook eye to add some weight for better casting and sinking. Make sure the wraps are tight, and cover them with thread to secure the weight.
Attach the Marabou Tail
Cut a small tuft of marabou (about the length of the hook shank) and tie it in just behind the hook barb. Make sure to catch it in with a couple of tight wraps.
Add the Ginger Hen Hackle
Take a ginger hen feather (concave side facing the hook) and tie it in behind the marabou tail. Secure the feather with 2-3 wraps of thread and make sure the stem is positioned so that it’ll create a nice, buggy look.
Build the Marabou Body
Now, create a marabou rope by licking your fingers and twisting the marabou fibers together. Wrap the twisted marabou up to the hook eye, keeping the wraps tight and close together for a dense body.
Final Touches
Once you reach the bead or hook eye, tie off the marabou body and trim any excess material. Pull back the marabou fibers to create a tapered body shape, and wrap a few additional turns of thread to secure everything in place. Clean up any loose fibers and finish the fly with a whip finish.
Tips for Fishing the Micro Bugger:
This fly is effective in smaller streams with wild trout, where an eight-inch fish is noteworthy.
Use a light, delicate presentation and focus on getting a good drift in crystal-clear waters.
For added depth and action, you can adjust the weight and use a bead head for faster sinking.
