Marabou Leech

The marabou leech pattern was originally created by Hal Janssen in 1957. The pattern takes into account the natural process of how a leech looks when it swims. In nature, leeches swim by more or less forming into a ball and then stretching out flat propelling them through the water. The Marabou Leech replicates this long cylindrical shape better than most other leech patterns.

Fish the Marabou Leech with a slow, steady retrieve to mimic a leech’s natural swimming motion, or use a jerky, erratic retrieve to imitate a distressed or fleeing leech. In deeper water, pair it with a sink-tip line or weighted leader to reach the strike zone. Target areas near weed beds, drop-offs, or structure where leeches are commonly found. For added versatility, try using different colors to match the local forage.