For those anglers who fish tailwaters or spend time trying to catch trout during winter, scud imitations are vital. But these little crustaceans also exist in lakes, ponds, and spring creeks. Scuds usually live in or near weeds, and they are most active at times of low light. Even better, they are active all year long. Trout can grow large very quickly, putting on up to a pound per year, when they have access to large scud populations, so don’t be surprised if you catch a monster trout on a tiny fly.
In this video, Tim Flagler of Tightline Productions walks you through the steps for tying this simple yet effective pattern. As usual, Tim’s materials-handling skills are the key to tying this pattern quickly, efficiently, and simply.
Wood-Duck Scud
Hook: 2X-short emerger hook (here a Dai-Riki #125), size 16-20.
Thread: Fluorescent orange, 8/0 or 70-denier.
Antennae/overbody: Wood-duck flank feather fibers.
Rib: Gold Ultra Wire, small.
Body: Smokey-olive sowbug or scud dubbing.
Adhesive: Sally Hansen Hard-As-Nails.
Tools: Velcro or dubbing needle to tease out legs.