nymph
Perdigon
The Perdigon is a sleek, heavy, UV-resin-coated nymph designed for one purpose: getting to the bottom fast. Its smooth body and tungsten bead cut through current with minimal drag, making it the preferred point fly for competitive Euro nymphers fishing deep, fast runs where traditional flies struggle to reach the strike zone.
Originated by Spanish competition fly fishers, early 2000s
Recipe
- HookJig nymph hook (Hanak H400BL) · Ahrex
- BeadTungsten bead 3.3mm Silver
- ThreadBrown or black tying thread 8/0 or 70 denier · Semperfli
- TailCoq de Leon fibers
- BodyPheasant tail fibers, coated UV resin
- HotspotBlack or brown nail polish wing case
- HeadUV cure resin
History
Developed by Spanish competition fly fishers in the early 2000s, the Perdigon (Spanish slang for lead shot) was designed to sink like a bullet. It dominated European fly fishing competitions and was introduced to American anglers through the US Fly Fishing Team's competition results. Its UV resin coat was the key innovation, creating a durable, smooth, fast-sinking profile.
Tying overview
On a jig hook with a heavy tungsten bead, wrap a thin thread or tinsel body, add a thin fiber wing case, and seal everything with UV resin.
Fishing tips
Fish the Perdigon as the heavy point fly in a Euro tandem rig, with a lighter emerger or midge pattern as the dropper. Lead the flies through deep runs with constant bottom contact. The smooth profile means fewer snags than traditional nymphs in rocky substrate.