The Ultimate Guide to Tying and Fishing the Rubber Leg Green Drake Copper John Soft Hackle Nymph

When it comes to mayfly patterns that consistently produce results, few can match the allure of Green Drake imitations. These large mayflies (Ephemera guttulata) represent a significant food source for trout, making them a must-have pattern for any serious angler's fly box.

The Legacy of the Copper John Before diving into our enhanced pattern, let's acknowledge John Barr's revolutionary Copper John nymph. Created in the early 1990s, this pattern changed how we approach nymph tying with its innovative wire-wrapped body and striking profile. Today, we're building on this legendary pattern with a Green Drake twist that's absolutely deadly on the water.

Why This Pattern Works Our Rubber Leg Green Drake Copper John Soft Hackle Nymph combines the best of multiple proven techniques. The addition of rubber legs creates more movement in the water, while the soft hackle adds a lifelike pulse that triggers strikes. The wire body provides weight and flash, perfectly mimicking the natural's translucent shell.

Advanced Wire-Wrapping Technique Here's a game-changing tip for achieving that perfect wire body: Start by creating a smooth thread base, then tie in your wire at the bend. Instead of traditional forward wraps, use slightly overlapping turns while maintaining constant tension. This technique creates seamless segments and enhanced durability. The result? A more symmetrical profile that fish can't resist.

Rubber Leg Green Drake Copper John Soft Hackle Tutorial:

Materials List:

• Hook: Moonlit Premium TOGATTA ML502
• Bead: Moonlit Slotted Tungsten Apple/Pale Olive
• Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed 8/0 Pale Olive
• Tail/Legs: Semperfli SilliLegs Grizzly Flutter Black Barred Chartreuse
• Body/Rib: Semperfli Fly Tying Wire 0.2mm Bright Damsel Green
• Thorax: Moonlit Pine Squirrel Dubbing Pale Olive
• Hackle: Moonlit India Hen Neck Badger Dyed Olive

Check out the Tying Kit HERE>>>

When and Where to Fish Green Drake hatches typically occur from late May through July, with some regional variations. The nymphs prefer clean, cool waters with rocky or gravel bottoms. Prime fishing times are:

• Morning: 8-11 AM
• Evening: 6-9 PM
• Overcast days can produce all-day action

Regional Hatch Guide: US Rockies: June-July Pacific Northwest: May-June Eastern US: Late May-Early July Canada: June-August UK: May-June

Weather conditions that trigger the best hatches include:

• Stable barometric pressure
• Light wind
• Temperatures between 55-70°F
• Overcast or partly cloudy skies

Why This Pattern Belongs in Your Box The Rubber Leg Green Drake Copper John Soft Hackle Nymph isn't just another pattern – it's a strategic weapon for your fly box. Its versatility allows you to fish it effectively in various conditions:

• Dead drift in faster runs
• Swing through seams
• Deep pools with a slow retrieve
• Under indicators in pocket water

The combination of flash, movement, and proper profile makes this pattern especially effective during both hatch and non-hatch periods. Fish it as a searching pattern or during active hatches for consistent success.

Whether you're targeting selective brown trout in Pennsylvania's limestone streams or aggressive rainbows in Colorado's high country, this pattern delivers results. The added rubber legs and soft hackle create a more lifelike presentation that often triggers strikes when standard patterns fail.

For detailed step-by-step instructions, check out our comprehensive video tutorial on our website, where we demonstrate every aspect of tying this productive pattern.

Remember, success with any fly pattern comes down to presentation and confidence. With the Rubber Leg Green Drake Copper John Soft Hackle Nymph in your arsenal, you'll have both in spades. Tie some up, hit the water, and get ready for some exciting action!