Overview

A timeless staple in the world of trout fishing, the Bird’s Nest is one of the most versatile and effective nymph patterns ever created. Originally developed by Cal Bird in the 1950s for California’s Truckee River, this fly has earned its place in fly boxes around the world due to its uncanny ability to imitate a wide range of aquatic insects. With its shaggy, lifelike profile and natural materials, it mimics both caddis and mayfly nymphs, offering a realistic and “buggy” presentation that trout find irresistible. The fly features a blend of soft hackle and natural dubbing to create movement and texture that triggers instinctual feeding responses. Whether drifted deep in a nymph rig, swung through current seams, or dropped below a dry, the Bird’s Nest adapts to nearly any condition. Available in multiple colors and sizes, it covers everything from technical tailwaters to fast-moving freestone rivers. If you’re targeting trout and not sure what they’re keying on, this is the confidence fly to tie on first.

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