The Two-Bit Pheasant Tail Nymph: A Game-Changer in Nymph Fishing

Few fly patterns stand the test of time like Frank Sawyers Pheasant Tail Nymph, a true classic that's been a staple in fly boxes for decades. Now, imagine taking the best of this legendary fly and fusing it with the powerhouse efficiency of Charlie Cravens Two-Bit Hooker. The result? The Two-Bit Pheasant Tail is pattern that will help you reach the feeding zone faster and more effectively helping to make it the perfect pattern when fishing in faster moving water.

If you’re looking for an edge to bring more fish to the net, the Two-Bit Pheasant Tail could be the game-changer your setup needs.

What Makes the Two-Bit Pheasant Tail Unique?

By combining the Pheasant Tail Nymphs classic profile and combined that with the Two-Bits hallmark feature of two tungsten beads helps breathe new life into this timeless classic.  The added weight of the two tungsten beads help enhance this flies effectiveness as a point fly in a two nymph set up, and get your fly into the fishes feeding zone quickly, thus making this pattern a Depth-Driving Machine.  A must have in fast moving water, where you have to get your fly down quickly to reach the fish before you past them, putting your fly right where it needs to be.

The two-bead setup isn’t just about getting deeper, though. It can be used to add a hot spot inside the thorax, and some shimmer to help catch the fishes attention form a distance. The tones and depth of the pheasant tail fibers create a lifelike and realistic constructed fly to help trick the most selective fish.  

Why This Combo Is So Effective

Merging the Pheasant Tail’s slim, natural profile with the tungsten-powered weight of the Two-Bit Hooker results in a fly that’s not only more versatile but also incredibly efficient. Here’s why this mash-up is a must-have:

• Weight and Depth: Two tungsten beads drive this fly down fast, perfect for getting through faster-moving currents or diving deeper into pools. Faster sinking means your fly spends more time in the strike zone, which translates to more fish.
• Versatility in Rigging: The Two-Bit Pheasant Tail shines in various setups. Fish it as a point fly on your favorite tandem nymph rig, allowing it to draw fish up toward a trailing fly. Or, for a more dynamic approach, try it as a dropper beneath a larger dry fly. This setup not only offers the illusion of a tasty morsel drifting by but also allows you to cover different depths with ease.
• Irresistible Profile: The Pheasant Tail is a tried-and-true pattern, and adding the two beads provides that extra bit of movement and flash. For pressured waters or selective fish, the Two-Bit Pheasant Tail's natural appearance and slightly heavier profile make it a tough combination for trout to resist.

Two-Bit Pheasant Tail Fly Tying Tutorial:

Are you ready to tie your own Two-Bit Pheasant Tail Nymphs?  Join us as we tie this pattern in a step by step video, and make sure to grab the materials to tie you own below.

Two-Bit Pheasant Tail Materials List:

• Hook: Moonlit Premium TOGATTA ML501 sz10-16 (substitute ML502)
• Beads: Moonlit Slotted Tungsten Metallic Purple (first sized to match, trailing bead one size under)
• Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed 12/0 Purple
• Tail: 4 Purple Dyed Pheasant Tail Fibers (or color of choice)
• Rib: Semperfli Fly Tying Wire 0.2mm Purple (or color of choice)
• Body: 4-6 Purple Dyed Pheasant Tail Fibers (or color of choice)
• Wing Case: Semperfli 1/16"Flat Tinsel Mirage Iris
• Thorax: Moonlit Pine Squirrel Dubbing Purple (optional)
• Legs: Semperfli Micro Glint Tinsel Purple (or color of choice)
• Hot Spot (optional): Semperfli Classic Waxed 12/0 Fluoro Green (or color of choice)

Gear Up to Fish the Two-Bit Pheasant Tail

Pairing the Two-Bit Pheasant Tail with the right gear can make all the difference. If fishing a two nymph set up a high-quality nymphing rod with excellent sensitivity will help you feel even the subtlest of takes. Fluorocarbon tippet will also give you the abrasion resistance needed for bouncing your flies of rocky riffles, as well as the stealth factor in clear water. Make sure to consider adding other nymphing essentials to your order.

1. Moonlit Fly Fishing Umbra 10’ 3wt or 5wt
2. NIRVANA Moksha 10’ 3wt or 5wt
3. Moonlit 50m Fluorocarbon Tippet
4. Moonlit Big Hog Furled Leader

Ready to Hit the Water?

The Two-Bit Pheasant Tail isn’t just a pattern—it’s an invitation to elevate your nymph fishing game. With the perfect combination of classic appeal and modern effectiveness, this fly pattern brings versatility, performance, and that extra edge needed to take on everything from fast-flowing rivers to deep pools.

Whether you’re new to tying or an experienced angler looking to expand your fly box, this pattern deserves a spot in your setup. Grab the materials, tie up a few Two-Bit Pheasant Tails, and hit the water with confidence. With this fly in your arsenal, you're set for a productive day on the water—and likely, a few more fish in the net.