The gold-ribbed hare's ear is the all-purpose nymph of Eastern trout fishing. Its rough, buggy dubbing imitates caddis pupae, mayfly nymphs, and small crustaceans with equal conviction.
1. Thread base — Attach tan thread and lay a smooth base to the bend.
2. Tail — Tie in a short pinch of hare's mask guard hairs at the bend.
3. Rib — Tie in a length of gold tinsel at the bend.
4. Abdomen — Dub a slightly rough, tapered hare's ear body from the bend to the midpoint.
5. Rib — Wrap the gold tinsel forward over the abdomen in evenly spaced turns. Tie off and trim.
6. Legs (optional) — Tie in a few partridge feather fibers on each side to suggest legs.
7. Thorax — Build a heavier, shaggier hare's ear thorax from the midpoint to just behind the eye. Pick out dubbing fibers with a needle for a buggy look.
8. Head — Whip finish and apply head cement.
Seasons
Water conditions
hook
thread
tail
rib
body
legs
thorax
bead
Baetis spp.
Brachycentrus spp.
Hydropsyche spp.
