Scud or Sow Bug

The Scud or Sow bug Fly—also known as the Simple Scud, Garbage Scud, or UV Scud is a minimalist imitation of freshwater scuds and sowbugs, with all versions sharing nearly the same basic shape and profile. While materials may vary slightly (standard dubbing, synthetic blends, or UV accents), the core design remains consistent: a compact, curved body that closely matches the natural crustaceans trout feed on year-round. Its simplicity is its strength, making it an extremely effective pattern in tailwaters, spring creeks, and lakes where scuds are abundant. Subtle differences in translucence or flash can fine-tune the fly, but functionally these patterns fish the same and excel as dependable, no-nonsense producers.

The key to success with this fly is a slow, natural drift, as scuds typically move with the current.