Origin & History
The Claret & Peacock is a traditional UK stillwater nymph pattern, popularised in Scottish lochs for targeting trout during buzzer and midge hatches. It imitates the pupae of midges and other small aquatic insects. The combination of a claret body and peacock herl thorax creates a lifelike shimmer that attracts trout, making it a versatile and reliable fly in stillwater conditions.
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: Peacock herl
- 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 to the thread and wrap forward to create a smooth, tapered abdomen.
- Add Ribbing: Optional – tie in fine wire and spiral along the body for segmentation.
- Create Thorax: Tie in 2–3 strands of peacock herl and wrap around the thorax.
- Optional Wingcase: Tie in a strip of thin black tinsel or mylar over the thorax and secure.
- Finish: Whip finish the thread and trim excess materials.
Variations
- Standard Claret & Peacock: Classic claret body with peacock thorax.
- Ribbed Variant: Adds gold or copper wire ribbing for durability and segmentation.
- Wingcase Variant: Adds tinsel wingcase for realism.
- Emerging Claret & Peacock: Slightly paler thorax to mimic emerging pupae.
- Mini Claret & Peacock: Smaller hook and thinner materials for selective trout.
Seasonality & What It Represents
Most effective spring through autumn, particularly during midge pupae and buzzer hatches. Represents emerging pupae, a key food source for trout in UK stillwaters.
Tackle & Setup
- Rod: 9–10 ft 4–6 weight stillwater or lake 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 | Peacock herl |
| Wingcase | Optional thin black tinsel or mylar |
| Seasonality | Spring to autumn |
| Best For | Midge pupae and emerging buzzers in stillwaters |