Why the Balanced Leech is a Must-Have Fly

Stillwater Edge Podcast - Episode #29: Why the Balanced Leech is a Must-Have Fly

Hook: If you’re not fishing a Balanced Leech, you’re missing out on one of the most effective Stillwater patterns out there. This fly works year-round, triggers subtle but deadly strikes, and can be fished multiple ways. In this episode, I’m breaking down why it works, when to use it, and the best techniques for fishing it successfully.

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Key Takeaways from This Episode

Why Does the Balanced Leech Work So Well?

1. Suspended Presentation – Unlike standard leeches that hang vertically, the balanced leech sits horizontally, imitating a natural swimming motion.
2. Lifelike Movement – Wind and subtle rod twitches give it a realistic, pulsing action.
3. Versatile Across Seasons – Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, this fly works when trout are targeting leeches.

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When to Fish the Balanced Leech

✅ Cold Water Periods (Spring & Fall) – Trout key in on leeches as an easy, high-protein meal. Fish it under an indicator near drop-offs and shallow bays.

✅ Midday Lulls – When the bite slows, a slow hand-twist retrieve or an indicator setup can trigger subtle takes.

✅ Deep Water Suspension (Summer) – Hang a balanced leech under an indicator in 20+ feet of water or use a hover/sinking line to get down to feeding trout.

✅ After a Cold Front – When trout are sluggish due to weather shifts, the slow presentation of a balanced leech can be the key to success.

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How to Fish the Balanced Leech Successfully

1. Under an Indicator – The easiest and most effective method. The fly moves naturally with the water, and even the slightest twitch on the indicator could be a fish.

2. Slow Retrieves with a Floating Line – Strip, pause, strip to mimic a leech swimming. Works best in shallow water (3-6 feet).

3. Hover or Sink Line for Deep Water – Use a sinking line to get the leech into deeper zones without an indicator. The dangle method (letting your fly hover motionless just off the bottom) is deadly for big trout.

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Top 3 Tips for Balanced Leech Success

1. Use the Right Leader Setup – Fluorocarbon tippet adds stealth and durability. Adjust your indicator depth in 6-12 inch increments until you find fish.

2. Match the Hatch – Use black, brown, and olive in clear water, and go for red, purple, or white in stained water. If you see black leeches in the lake, fish a black leech.

3. Be Patient – Long pauses under an indicator almost always outperform active retrieves. If you’re fishing two rods, try one under an indicator and another with a slow strip to see what works best.

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Final Thoughts

The Balanced Leech is a Stillwater essential. Whether you fish it under an indicator, with a slow retrieve, or suspended in deep water, it just works. If you're struggling to get bites, tie one on and fish it with confidence.

Call to Action:
Tried the Balanced Leech before? Let me know your favorite colours and techniques! Reach out to me on Instagram @StillwaterEdge and let’s talk.

If you found this episode helpful, share it with your fishing buddies and help grow the Stillwater Edge community.

Until next time, tight lines—see you on the water