12 Bead head Copper John nymphs red + green 14 & 16

# **How to Choose 12 Bead Head Copper John Nymphs (Red + Green, Sizes 14 & 16)**

As an angler, selecting the right nymph can make the difference between a slow day on the water and a trophy catch. Among the most effective patterns for trout and other freshwater species is the **Bead Head Copper John nymph**, particularly in **red and green variations (sizes 14 & 16)**. This guide will help you understand why these flies work, how to choose the best ones, and when to use them for maximum success.

## **Why Choose the Bead Head Copper John Nymph?**

The **Copper John nymph** is a modern classic, designed by **John Barr** to imitate mayfly and stonefly nymphs. Its key features include:

– **Weighted bead head** – Ensures quick sinking and keeps the fly in the strike zone.
– **Copper wire body** – Adds flash and durability while mimicking natural insect segments.
– **Durable construction** – Resistant to fish teeth, making it last longer than traditional soft-hackle nymphs.

The **red and green variations** are particularly effective because they imitate **bloodworms (red) and caddis or mayfly nymphs (green)**, two staple food sources for trout.

## **Key Considerations When Choosing Copper John Nymphs**

### **1. Size Matters: 14 vs. 16**
– **Size 14** – Best for **larger trout and faster currents**, where a bigger profile is needed to attract attention.
– **Size 16** – Ideal for **clearer, slower waters** or when fish are feeding selectively on smaller nymphs.

### **2. Color Selection: Red vs. Green**
– **Red Copper John** – Mimics **bloodworms and midge larvae**, making it deadly in **spring and winter** when these are prevalent.
– **Green Copper John** – Resembles **caddis and mayfly nymphs**, excelling in **summer and fall** hatches.

### **3. Bead Head Type**
– **Brass or tungsten beads** – Tungsten sinks faster, ideal for deep pools, while brass is more versatile for moderate depths.
– **Gold vs. silver beads** – Gold adds warmth (great for murky water), while silver provides a neutral flash (better in clear streams).

### **4. Hook Quality**
Ensure the hook is **sharp and strong** (e.g., **Daiichi or Tiemco hooks**) to prevent bending or breaking on larger fish.

## **Best Fishing Techniques for Copper John Nymphs**
– **Euro-nymphing** – Works exceptionally well due to the fly’s weight and visibility.
– **Indicator rigging** – Pair with a **strike indicator** in deeper pools.
– **Dropper rig** – Use as the **point fly** with a smaller nymph (e.g., Zebra Midge) as the dropper.

## **When & Where to Fish Them**
– **Early season (spring)** – Red Copper John in size 14 is excellent for high, muddy water.
– **Summer hatches** – Green Copper John in size 16 matches caddis and mayfly activity.
– **Deep pools & fast runs** – Tungsten bead versions get down quickly.

## **Conclusion**
The **Bead Head Copper John nymph (red & green, sizes 14 & 16)** is a must-have in any fly box. By selecting the right **size, color, and bead type**, you can adapt to various conditions and consistently fool wary trout. Whether you’re nymphing deep pools or drifting through riffles, this fly delivers **strikes when others fail**.

For premium-quality **KyleBooker Copper John nymphs**, check out our **12-pack assortment**, ensuring you’re always prepared for the next big catch!

**Tight lines and happy fishing!** 🎣