Simi Seal Leech

Hook: 2x-3x nymph hook.

Size: #8 – 12.
Thread: 6/0-3/0 depending on hook size

Weight:  Optional bead or lead if desired

Tail: AZ Simi Seal
Body: AZ Simi Seal
Rib: Wire ( I use red quite a bit)
 

Photo Courtesy of Arizona Flyfishing

Tying Instructions

1.   Apply bead (if used) on hook and secure on hook shank with thread wraps.

2.   Pull small pinch of Simi Seal for the tail and secure on hook shank above the barb, tying in the middle of the clump.

3.   Fold forward facing clump back over the thread wraps and tie down again, forming the tail. 

4.   Tie in wire or any other appropriate ribbing in front of tail.

5.   Body will be formed by what I call the simi seal dubbing technique.  No wax is used.

6.   Thread should be hanging just in front of the tail.

7.   Apply enough dubbing to cover the thread from the hook shank to the tip of the bobbin.

8.   Hold the thread, the dubbing and the tip of the bobbin between your first finger and thumb.

9.   Wrap all three up the hook shank….never loosening the grip with your fingers.

10.         The material will get tighter around the thread with every wrap.  I wrap up and back over the hook shank forming desired body shape. You may have to loosen the grip if it gets too tight.  I usually apply two separate dubbing clumps.

11.         After achieving the desired body size you want, tease out fibers with a Velcro dowel or stick.

12.         Wrap rib up the hook shank .

13.         Tie off, whip finish twice and re-tease with Velcro.

Fishing Techniques

I came up with Simi Seal because mohair is such a versatile, useful material for leeches, buggers, streamers, crayfish patterns, etc that we use here in Arizona on so many of our waters.  I simply added nylons and mylar for flash and came up with a durable easy to use material that has really proven itself on every water I have used it.

I usually tie in a bead, but the fly can certainly be tied without.  The bead gives the fly an up and down motion, much like a leech.  With all the different colors to choose from, I’m sure the fly is taken as a baitfish or dragonfly nymph or even a crayfish.  It just proves its diversity.  It’s an easy fly to tie and very durable.  There is nothing on it to break or come apart so one fly can literally last all day.

I have fished it at the Ferry, on small streams, in our desert lakes, and of course in our high trout lakes.  Using the appropriate fly line to get the fly in front of the fish allows you to give the fly the action you want.  I always tie it with a loop knot for maximum freedom of motion.  

Give it a try.  I think you’ll see it is worth carrying a few in your box. 

Good fishing

John Rohmer  - Arizona Flyfishing