Copper John
Imitates: Mayfly/stonefly nymph + sinking weight
Quick Reference
- Best Sizes
- #14-18
- Best Season
- Year-round
- Best Conditions
- Deep, fast runs that need a fly to drop fast
- Water Temp
- 40-65°F
- Recommended Tippet
- 4X-5X
How to Rig It
Lead fly in a tight-line or indicator rig — its weight pulls a smaller trailing midge to depth.
How to Present It
High-stick or Euro-nymph through deep buckets. Let it tick the bottom.
Why It Works
The copper wire body sinks faster than any other classic nymph its size, putting smaller trailing flies in the strike zone instantly.
History
John Barr created it in Colorado in 1996 specifically as a 'sinker' to anchor two-fly rigs. It became the best-selling fly in Umpqua Feather Merchants history.
Pro Tip
Use red Copper John in spring runoff and chartreuse in stained water — the flash triggers strikes when fish can't see clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Copper John imitate?+
Loosely a mayfly or small stonefly nymph, but it's primarily designed as an attractor and weight to get droppers deep fast.
Not sure if Copper John is right today?
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