Beadhead Frenchie

Primarily a mayfly nymph or general attractor nymph. It doesn’t copy one specific species but rather the slender profile and active look of small mayfly nymphs (especially Baetis or Blue-Winged Olives). The flashy body ribbing and hot-spot collar act as a trigger to provoke strikes.

History

The Frenchie Nymph was popularized by Lance Egan, a U.S. Fly Fishing Team competitor and one of the early adopters of Euro-style nymphing in America. He developed it in the early 2000s as a simplified, competition-legal variation of the classic Pheasant Tail Nymph, incorporating a hot-spot and bead to improve visibility and sink rate.

The name “Frenchie” refers to its French nymphing roots, where slim, fast-sinking flies were essential for competition success. It became a standard pattern among competitive anglers and is now one of the most productive nymphs worldwide.