Fly Tying Inventory
Japanese Beetle
A foam-bodied beetle pattern imitating the invasive Japanese Beetle, a protein-rich meal that trout readily devour in summer. The peacock herl underbody provides natural iridescence while the foam back ensures the fly floats all day. Simple construction makes it ideal for beginners. Fish it near overhanging vegetation and let it drift naturally—even a slight sink can draw strikes.
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Materials
Dry fly hook, sizes 10-16 (Tiemco 100 or equivalent)
Black 6/0 or 8/0
3-4 strands of peacock herl
Black 2mm closed-cell foam strip
Black round rubber legs or silicone legs
Bright colored foam indicator (orange, chartreuse, or white)
Super glue for durability
How to Tie the Japanese Beetle
- 1
Step 1
Secure hook in vise. Lay down a thread base from just behind the eye to above the barb.
- 2
Step 2
Tie in 3-4 strands of peacock herl at the bend and wrap forward to the two-thirds mark. Tie off and trim excess.
Peacock herl provides the iridescent green-bronze sheen that makes this pattern realistic.
- 3
Step 3
Cut a strip of black 2mm foam about the width of the hook gap, tapering one end. Secure the foam to the top of the hook at the bend.
- 4
Step 4
Pull the foam forward over the peacock herl underbody and tie it down at the front, just behind the eye, to form an arched beetle back. Trim excess foam, leaving a small head.
- 5
Step 5
Cut two pieces of rubber leg material and tie one on either side of the body. Adjust length to about the body length.
- 6
Step 6
Cut a small piece of bright foam and tie it on top of the beetle's back at the thorax for a sighter to aid visibility on the water.
- 7
Step 7
Whip finish behind the eye. Apply head cement or super glue. Trim legs and round the foam head with scissors.
Watch Tying Tutorial
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-p5cV8CGuY
Credit: Traditional