Bodkin / Patterns

Red Head Leech

Streamer · Trout · Smallmouth Bass · Largemouth Bass · Intermediate · 1 version

Reference Recipe

  • Hook Streamer / jig, 3xl or curved, 6-10
  • Thread Red 6/0 (140 denier)

Materials

  • Bead (optional) Red or black bead (1)
  • Marabou Black or olive marabou (2 plumes)
  • Copper wire Copper wire (rib)

How to tie it

  1. If using a bead, slide it to the eye, then start thread behind it.
  2. At the bend tie in a marabou plume tail one and a half shank lengths. Leeches are long and slinky.
  3. Tie in fine copper wire and a second marabou plume at the base.
  4. Wrap the second plume forward in touching turns to just behind the bead, stroking the fibers back on each turn for a pulsing body.
  5. Counter-wrap the wire forward in 5-6 turns to lock the fragile body, then helicopter off the tag.
  6. Build a bold red thread collar and head, the red head is the trigger, then whip finish and cement.

Tying videos

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