Hare and Copper
The Hare and Copper is New Zealand's most iconic trout nymph — a buggy hare's ear body ribbed with copper wire that imitates mayflies, caddis, and cased larvae. Strong for searches like Hare and Copper nymph pattern, New Zealand trout fly, and best buggy mayfly nymph.
Imitates: Mayfly nymphs, cased caddis, generic food
Quick Reference
- Best Sizes
- #12-16
- Best Season
- Year-round
- Best Conditions
- Clear backcountry rivers, freestones, sight-fishing water
- Water Temp
- 40-65°F
- Recommended Tippet
- 4X-5X
How to Rig It
Single nymph under a dry, or as a euro point fly.
How to Present It
Dead-drift through runs; sight-fish to cruising trout with a single fly.
Why It Works
The hare's-ear body breathes, the copper wire flashes, and the profile reads as nearly any nymph or cased caddis.
History
A New Zealand classic, refined on the South Island for backcountry sight-fishing. It's the country's default nymph.
Pro Tip
For Kiwi-style sight-fishing, fish a single unweighted Hare and Copper on a long leader. It enters quietly and drops naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Hare and Copper so popular in New Zealand?+
Clear water sight-fishing rewards subtle, natural patterns — and the Hare and Copper looks like everything and nothing all at once.
Not sure if Hare and Copper is right today?
Get a fly recommendation based on live water temp, flow, sky, and time of day for any river in the US.
Open Fly Advisor
Map
Fly Guide