12 Bead Head Pheasant Tail Soft Hackle Nymph Selection – Mayfly Nymphs

A proven soft hackle mayfly pattern with the perfect combination of flash, movement, and a buggy profile. Capt. Ken has been tying and fishing this custom pattern for decades, and it remains an excellent choice for trout anglers.

Description

The Bead Head Pheasant Tail Soft Hackle is a custom pattern that Capt. Ken Tutalo originally demonstrated on a fly-tying DVD he produced in 2004. More than two decades later, he continues to tie and fish this productive nymph.

This pattern combines the familiar profile of a pheasant tail nymph with the added movement of a soft hackle collar. The bead head helps get the fly down, while the soft hackle creates movement in the current. A touch of flash adds just the right amount of attraction without overpowering the natural appearance.

These are custom-tied flies with a fuller, more detailed appearance than many mass-produced commercial imports.

Why Fish the Bead Head Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail?

• Proven custom pattern: Developed and demonstrated by Capt. Ken in his 2004 fly-tying DVD.

• Soft hackle movement: Adds natural movement as the fly drifts through the current.

• Subtle flash: Provides a little extra attraction while maintaining a natural nymph profile.

• Bead head design: Helps the fly sink and reach feeding trout.

• Detailed construction: A fuller, more substantial pattern than many mass-produced alternatives.

How to Fish It

Fish this pattern as part of a standard nymph rig, allowing it to drift naturally through runs, pools, and riffles. The soft hackle also makes it a good option when trout are feeding on emerging mayflies or insects moving through the water column.

Try it as a dropper behind a heavier nymph or fish it as the primary fly when conditions call for a smaller, more natural presentation.

Capt. Ken’s Guide Tips

I've been tying and fishing this pattern since before I demonstrated it on my 2004 fly-tying DVD. It has remained in my fly boxes because the combination of pheasant tail, soft hackle movement, and just the right amount of flash is consistently effective.

Don't overlook soft hackle nymphs when trout are feeding just below the surface. A little movement can make a big difference when fish are seeing plenty of standard bead head nymphs.

Details

• Pattern: Bead Head Pheasant Tail Soft Hackle

• Style: Soft Hackle Mayfly Nymph

• Total Quantity: 12 flies

• Available Sizes: #8 through #18

• This Selection Includes:

  • 2 flies – Size #10

  • 2 flies – Size #12

  • 2 flies – Size #14

  • 2 flies – Size #16

  • 2 flies – Size #18

Please Note: The selection breakdown above totals 10 flies, not 12. The listing title specifies a 12-fly selection, so please confirm the remaining two flies before publishing.

A versatile assortment of custom soft hackle nymphs for trout anglers looking for a proven pattern with added movement and attraction.