Origin & History
The Claret & Black is a classic UK stillwater nymph pattern, designed to imitate dark midge pupae in lakes and reservoirs. Originating in the Scottish Highlands, it has been a staple for fly anglers for decades. Its deep claret body with contrasting black thorax and optional wingcase effectively triggers trout during low-light conditions, early mornings, and buzzer-dominated days.
Materials
- Hook: 1X–2X long nymph hook, sizes 10–16
- Thread: Black or brown 8/70D
- Tail: 3–5 strands coq de leon fibres
- Body: Claret synthetic dubbing
- Rib: Optional – fine gold or copper wire
- Thorax: Black synthetic dubbing
- Optional Wingcase: Thin black tinsel or mylar
Step-by-Step Tying
- Secure the Hook: Place the hook in the vise and secure firmly.
- Attach the Thread: Start behind the hook eye and wrap back to the bend.
- Prepare the Tail: Tie in 3–5 strands of coq de leon fibers at the bend, roughly the length of the hook shank.
- Form the Body: Apply claret dubbing and wrap forward to form a smooth, tapered abdomen.
- Add Ribbing: Optional – tie in fine wire and spiral along the body for segmentation and durability.
- Create Thorax: Apply black dubbing around the thorax for contrast.
- Optional Wingcase: Tie in a strip of thin black tinsel or mylar over the thorax and secure.
- Finish: Whip finish the thread and trim any excess materials.
Variations
- Standard Claret & Black: Classic claret body with black thorax.
- Ribbed Claret & Black: Optional gold or copper ribbing for segmentation.
- Wingcase Claret & Black: Adds tinsel or mylar wingcase for realism.
- Mini Claret & Black: Smaller hook for selective feeding trout.
- Dark Thorax Variant: Slightly larger black thorax for heavy buzzer days.
Seasonality & What It Represents
Most effective spring through autumn, particularly during midge pupae hatches. Represents emerging midge pupae or buzzers, a key food source for trout in UK stillwaters.
Tackle & Setup
- Rod: 9–10 ft 4–6 weight stillwater rod
- Line: Floating or intermediate line for controlled depth
- Leader: 9–12 ft tapered leader
- Tippet: 4–6 lb
- Presentation: Slow drag-free drift or washing-line presentation
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hook Size | 10–16, 1X–2X long nymph |
| Tail | 3–5 strands coq de leon fibres |
| Body | Claret synthetic dubbing |
| Rib | Optional fine wire |
| Thorax | Black synthetic dubbing |
| Wingcase | Optional thin black tinsel or mylar |
| Seasonality | Spring to autumn |
| Best For | Midge pupae and buzzers in stillwaters |