Brassie Fly

Brassie

A minimalist and heavy nymph fly, primarily designed to mimic various species of small aquatic larvae.

How it's tied

The Brassie is tied on a short-shank hook, typically in sizes 18 to 22. It features a slim, cylindrical body made from tightly wound wire—usually copper or brass, hence the fly's name. This construction gives the Brassie its characteristic weight and flash, allowing it to sink quickly and catch the light underwater

The thorax of the Brassie is usually made from peacock herl, giving it a touch of iridescence and natural appeal. A simple thread head completes the fly, followed by a whip finish and head cement for durability..

Despite its simplicity, achieving a neat, even body with the wire can require a certain level of skill, as can tying in the delicate peacock herl without damaging it.

What it mimics

The Brassie is a versatile pattern that can mimic various small aquatic larvae, such as midge or caddis larvae. Its slim profile and the flash from the wire body can make it particularly effective in mimicking midge pupae or small mayfly nymphs.

Where it's used

The Brassie is a valuable fly in a variety of water types. It can be used in rivers and streams, where its weight helps it get down in faster currents, and it can also be effective in still waters like lakes and ponds, especially where you need to get your nymph deep quickly.

Fly tying video for the Brassie

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Fish you can can fly fish for with the Brassie

Bream

Brook trout

Brown Trout

Chub

Common Carp

Cutthroat Trout

Golden Trout

Grayling

Ide

Marble Trout

Rainbow Trout

Roach

Rudd

Steelhead

Tench

Insect orders relevant to the Brassie

These are insect orders of which one or more species are mimicked by the Brassie.

Caddisflies

Trichoptera

Mayflies

Ephemeroptera

True Flies

Diptera

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