Wet Fly
San Juan Worm
The San Juan Worm is a simple and highly effective pattern designed to imitate aquatic worms that become dislodged from the streambed. It is especially productive after rain, during periods of high or off-colored water, and in rivers with abundant natural worm populations. The fly is usually dead-drifted close to the bottom beneath an indicator, either alone or as part of a multi-nymph rig. San Juan Worms are commonly tied in red, pink, brown, orange, and wine, with different colors working better under different water conditions. Although the pattern is easy to tie, keeping the body properly proportioned and securing the material firmly without cutting through it are the main considerations.
Tied the San Juan Worm?
Show off your version — community photos are featured right on this page.
Recipe
This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
-
Hook · Tiemco 2457 or Mustad 80200 size 10
-
Bead · brass bead (optional)
-
Thread · Fluorescent Red
-
Body · Florescent red ultra chenille with ends burned (for durability)
Related Patterns
Wet Fly