Origin and History
The Willow Grub fly pattern was developed in New Zealand, where trout often gorge on tiny, bright green willow grubs that fall from trees into rivers and stillwaters. UK anglers later adopted the pattern for selective trout feeding on terrestrials, particularly during summer months. Although simple, the Willow Grub has proven itself on chalkstreams, stillwaters, and rivers alike, where fish can become extremely focused on these abundant food items.
Materials
- Hook: Curved grub or scud hook, sizes 14–20
- Thread: White or light green 8/0
- Body: Stretch floss, vinyl rib, or micro chenille in bright green, chartreuse, or yellow
- Rib: Fine wire or mono (optional, for durability)
- Thorax (optional): Fine dubbing to bulk up the head
Popular Variations
- UV Willow Grub – body tied with UV chartreuse materials
- Weighted Willow Grub – with fine wire wraps for quicker sink
- Clear-Body Willow Grub – uses vinyl rib for semi-transparent look
- Mini Willow Grub – size 18–22 for ultra-selective trout
- CDC Wing Grub – adds CDC tuft for visibility
Step-by-Step Tying Guide
- Secure a curved grub hook in the vice and start thread at the bend.
- Tie in a length of stretch floss, vinyl rib, or fine chenille at the hook bend.
- Wrap the material forward in close, overlapping turns to form a segmented body.
- (Optional) Counter-rib with fine wire or mono for added strength.
- Build a tiny thorax with fine dubbing if desired, keeping profile slim.
- Whip finish neatly behind the eye and add a touch of varnish.
Seasonality & Representation
The Willow Grub is primarily a summer and early autumn pattern, when willow and poplar trees drop large numbers of grubs into rivers and lakes. Trout often key in heavily on these grubs, feeding with selective precision. This fly represents terrestrials rather than aquatic insects and is best fished when trout are visibly grubbing just below the surface.
Tackle and Setup
- Rod: 8–9ft, 3–5wt for delicate presentation
- Line: Floating line
- Leader: 10–14ft, 5–7X tippet
- Setup: Fished singly on fine tippet, presented upstream with a dead drift to feeding fish
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | New Zealand, later adopted in UK |
| Best Seasons | Summer to early autumn |
| Represents | Fallen willow grubs (terrestrials) |
| Hook Sizes | 14–20 (micro 22) |
| Tackle Setup | 8–9ft rod, floating line, 10–14ft leader |
