Olive Quill Body Euro Nymph

The Polish Quill Nymph

This is a popular fly pattern used by fly fishers,  especially those using European nymphing techniques. It is often referred to as a "Polish Quill" because of the use of quills from Polish Peacock feathers as the primary material for the fly.

The quills are stripped and dyed in various colors to create the body of the nymph. The most common color variations are olive, brown, and black. It is typically tied on a jig-style hook and features a tungsten or brass bead head for weight, and often uses an oversized bead for added weight.

The Polish Quill Nymph is a versatile pattern imitating a variety of aquatic insects like mayflies, stoneflies, and caddisflies. It is especially effective in fast-moving, turbulent water where traditional fly patterns may not sink quickly enough to reach the fish. This is done with the combination of the added weight and slim profile of the fly. When fished using the European nymphing technique, the fly is cast upstream and allowed to drift naturally downstream, with the angler using subtle rod movements to detect strikes.

Tying Video

Materials List:

• Hook: Moonlit Premium Togatta ML501 sz12-16
• Bead: Moonlit Slotted Tungsten Apple/Pale Olive 3.5mm-2.5mm
• Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed Pale Olive 12/0
• Tail: Whiting CDL Medium Dun or use Hen Saddle Fibers
• Body: Semperfli Perfect Quills Clear Medium-Small
• Thorax: SRF Club Dub Seal Sub Dark Olive