How to Work a Scud Fly on Your Fishing Line

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A scud fly imitates the behavior of the scud mayfly. Fishing with a scud requires fishing close to underwater rocks. You must mimic the behavior of scuds, which do not roam far from the protective shelter of a bed of rocks. Naturally fast swimmers, scuds move within a specific pattern. You can copy that pattern with a fly fishing rod and techniques such as the dead drift method, which hopefully will convince trout and other fish that the scud is ready for the taking. Learning how to do this is the key to successful fishing.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Find scuds by turning over water-covered stones in the river you are fishing.

Step 2

Attach a scud and enough weight to submerge your line quickly.

Step 3

Use the dead drift method. Cast your fly directly upstream of your location.

Step 4

Fish scuds close to stones on the bottom. Cast the scud pattern so it bounces off the bottom. The shot should appear to swim naturally just above the bottom.

Step 5

Raise your rod as you gently pull the scud pattern back to its castoff point. When the scud leaves the water and excess fly line rises to float overhead, slowly lower your fly fishing rod tip. Doing so will allow the scud to free float, which will minimize how much line is out.

Step 6

Recast the line back upstream. This time allow the current to take the line downstream. If the line travels as close as five to ten feet in front of where you're standing, raise the rod slightly and try not to interrupt the current.

Step 7

Watch the water for line movement. If movement does not occur, recast your line in a new location. Repeat the above steps.

Tips & Warnings

Use the dead drift technique to cover more water and increase your bite-to-catch ratio.

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

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