Video - Michigan Wriggler Winter Steelhead Fly (aka Spring Wriggler)
I first found the wriggler in a fly swap over a decade ago. The fly was developed based on the success of center-pin fishermen using "wrigglers" as bait on the Great Lake tributaries. The Wrigglers are the nymphs of the Hexagenia mayfly. These are large nymphs and can be up to a couple of inches long.
Size 6-10 is the sweet spot for the fly pattern. Variations include colors like brown, tan, yellow and orange. You may also want to include hot butts or flashier chenilles in the body of the fly.
Michigan Wriggler Fly Pattern Recipe
aka Springs Wriggler or Beaver Mines Special
Hook: Mustad 3906B #6-10
Thread: Olive 8/0 (70d)
Tail: Squirrel tail (grey)
Rib: Copper wire
Body: Olive chenille
Legs: Grizzly hackle
Back: Squirrel tail (grey)
optional UV resin or cement on the back