The Orange Scud Nymph (Gammarus Imitation) is a proven subsurface nymph pattern designed to imitate freshwater shrimp, a key natural food source for trout or grayling in rivers, streams and lakes. The orange coloration provides a strong visual trigger, replicating scuds that are newly moulted, stressed or exposed in changing water conditions. This brighter profile makes the fly particularly effective in stained water, after rainfall, or when fish are actively feeding on shrimp close to the riverbed.
Featuring a curved shrimp style silhouette, the Orange Scud closely matches the natural shape and movement of drifting gammarus. The weighted body helps the fly reach feeding depth quickly, while the vibrant tone improves visibility without excessive flash. It is an excellent choice as a searching nymph in pressured fisheries, limestone rivers and weedy margins where freshwater shrimp are present throughout the year.
Please note all of our fishing flies are barbless unless otherwise stated.
Orange Scud Nymph (Gammarus Imitation) Specification
Tail - Cock Orange
Body - Seals Fur Orange, Weighted
Rib - Nylon
Horn - Cock Orange
Head - Orange Silk
Hook - Barbless, Mustad of Norway
Target Species - Trout & Grayling
How To Fish The Orange Scud Nymph (Gammarus Imitation)
Upstream Natural Drift
Cast upstream or slightly across and allow the fly to drift naturally along the bottom contour. Maintain controlled contact during the drift then watch for subtle checks in the leader, as takes on shrimp patterns are often gentle or quick.
Czech Nymphing
Czech nymphing is an effective technique for fishing the Orange Scud tight to the riverbed where gammarus naturally move. Fish at close range with a long leader and minimal fly line beyond the rod tip to maximise strike detection. This controlled, high-contact presentation keeps the fly in the feeding zone, allowing you to feel slight takes as the Orange Scud tracks through riffles and faster water.
Klink and Dink / New Zealand Style
Suspend the Orange Scud beneath a buoyant dry fly using a Klink and Dink or New Zealand style rig. The dry fly provides flotation and visual indication, while the scud pattern drifts below at a controlled depth. This method covers both surface and subsurface feeding behaviour and is highly effective when trout or grayling alternate between shrimp and emerging insects.
