How to Tie the Atomic Worm Fly Pattern

May 02, 2022 · 2 min read

Learn how to tie the Atomic Worm fly pattern including step-by-step instructions, a video tutorial, pictures, and much more. Improve your fly tying skills here.

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Bloodworms are common in most bodies of water and make easy meals for trout. The Atomic Worm is an excellent bloodworm imitation, easy to tie, and requires only a few materials. It is a great pattern to drop off hoppers or under an indicator and is equally effective in stillwater as in moving water. Trout crush this fly!

Material List

Hook: Kona Universal Klink; #10
Thread: 8/0 Uni Waxed Thread; Red
Body: Hairline Vinyl Nymph Rib; Red

Step One

Fly-tying vise holding small curved hook wrapped in bright orange thread for Atomic Worm fly pattern on gray background

Begin the pattern by laying a thread base from below the hook’s eye to the bend.

Step Two

Fly tying vise holding a barbed hook wrapped with bright red thread for Atomic Worm fly pattern, close-up detail

We are using vinyl rib for the Atomic Worm’s body. Tie a section of material by the tip and below the eye with the arc facing outward, then cover the fabric with thread. Be sure to leave the uncovered rear material intact.

Step Three

Red segmented Atomic Worm fly tied on a hook in a vise with orange thread, fly tying tutorial

Make overlapping wraps with the vinyl rib up the shank, then tie off right below the head.

Step Four

Red segmented Atomic Worm fly pattern on a curved black hook clamped in vise with red tying thread, blurred background

Create the Atomic Worm’s head by simply running the thread between the eye several times.

Step Five

Hand tying a bright red segmented Atomic Worm fly on a hook held in a vise with red thread, fly tying tutorial

The Atomic Worm is ready to hit the water after securing the head with a whip finish.

Written by

Stephen D' Angelo

Stephen D'Angelo is a fly fishing expert with a passion for fly tying, gear, and time on the water. From small-stream trout to saltwater flats fishing, Stephen brings hands-on experience across a wide range of species and scenarios — and he's always happy to help you find the right setup for your next adventure.

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