When it comes to enticing fish to eat, movement is a key factor. Leeches in particular pulse and swim through the water in an attention-grabbing way. They also offer a meal that’s rich in protein and are present in almost every body of water. For this reason, there’s a good chance we’re tying one on at some point during the day.

The Balanced Leech’s unique construction starts with the hook—a super-sharp 90 degree hook with the bead tied to a pin that extends beyond the hook eye. This allows the fly to ride horizontally in the water column—the “balance” implied in the name—which makes the fly bounce, dip, and dart in an extremely lifelike way.

Our favorite ways to fish it: 

• In alpine lakes, we’ll strip this fly like a streamer.

• Super effective on a nymph rig, but should be used as your bottom fly to avoid tangles that can be caused by the 90 degree hook eye.

• Using the same setup as nymphing or stripping, try dead drifting this fly without an indicator.

Type of Water: Rivers & Creeks Stillwater & High Alpine Lakes 

Imitates: Leech 

Target Species: Cutthroat Trout Brown Trout Brook Trout Rainbow Trout

Insect Life Stage: n/a

Pair it with: Green Machine, Crystal Chironomid Pupa, Crystal Chironomid Larva, Hot Wire CDC, Little Leech—Unweighted, Little Leech—Weighted