The Copper John Red Beadhead Trout Fly is a highly effective nymph pattern, renowned for its ability to attract trout in various water conditions. Designed by John Barr in the 1990s, this fly has become a staple in anglers' boxes due to its innovative use of a copper wire body, which adds weight and a realistic segmented appearance. The red beadhead enhances its visibility and mimics the natural movement of aquatic insects, making it irresistible to fish.
Key features include a sleek profile, durable construction, and a flash of red that triggers strikes. Its versatility and proven track record make it a must-have for any serious fly fisher..
The Copper John Red Beadhead is a versatile nymph fly effective in both fast and slow-moving waters. To maximise its effectiveness, use a dead-drift presentation by casting upstream and allowing the fly to drift naturally with the current. This technique mimics the natural movement of aquatic insects, enticing trout to strike.
For retrieves, employ a slow, steady hand-twist retrieve to simulate an emerging nymph. In deeper pools, use a strike indicator to maintain the fly at the desired depth. Adjust the weight and leader length based on water conditions to ensure the fly reaches the strike zone efficiently.
Key Seasons - when is this
Bead Head Nymph Trout Fly
most effective?
The Copper John Red Beadhead is most effective during late spring to early autumn, aligning with key insect hatch periods. In spring, it mimics emerging nymphs, making it ideal when trout are actively feeding on subsurface insects. Summer months see increased insect activity, and this fly's vibrant red beadhead attracts trout in clear, fast-moving waters. Autumn is another prime time, as trout prepare for winter and are more aggressive in feeding. Use it in clear, sunny conditions when visibility is high, and in rivers or streams with rocky bottoms where nymphs are abundant.
How does the Turrall Copper John Red Beadhead Trout Fly imitate a key stage in a fish's diet?
The Copper John Red Beadhead fly is designed to imitate the nymph stage of aquatic insects, particularly mayflies. This stage is crucial as nymphs are abundant and a primary food source for trout. The fly's beadhead helps it sink quickly, mimicking the natural drift of nymphs in the water column. Its copper body and red accents replicate the natural sheen and colouration of these insects, making it irresistible to fish.
Fish target nymphs because they are nutrient-rich and plentiful, especially during hatches when nymphs emerge en masse, providing an easy and abundant meal.
Copper John Red Beadhead Trout Fly expertly tied
by Turrall for maximum performance.
The Turrall Copper John Red Beadhead Trout Fly is expertly tied using high-quality materials to ensure maximum performance on the water. This fly features a realistic profile that mimics natural prey, making it irresistible to trout. The use of a red beadhead not only adds weight for deeper water penetration but also provides an enticing flash that attracts fish. Turrall's craftsmanship ensures durability and effectiveness, with each fly meticulously constructed to withstand multiple strikes. Perfect for both still and running waters, this fly is a must-have in any angler's tackle box for successful fishing trips.
Turrall Copper John Red Beadhead Trout Fly BH75
- Turrall Premium Award-Winning Flies – The Best in Fly Fishing
England is the birthplace of fly fishing, and Turrall & Co. Ltd. is proud to be its longest-established company of professional fly dressers, crafting premium flies since the mid-nineteenth century. Over the years, Turrall has earned prestigious recognition from The Sunday Times, Country Living Magazine, and EFTTEX – the leading European Fishing Tackle Trade Association.
Every Turrall fly is the result of traditional craftsmanship fused with modern innovation, delivering consistent, high-performance results on the water. Turrall use only the finest materials, starting with high carbon steel hooks—needle-ground, surgically sharp, and double-coated for durability. Matched with world-class feathers and furs, including
Metz Genetic Hackles where appropriate, these hand-tied patterns are trusted by fly anglers worldwide.
