How to tie the Peeping Tom with Steve Cullen

When Winter arrives, many trout anglers are quick to pack away their gear and wait for the new year and the next season. For others, however, Winter marks the perfect opportunity to switch focus and begin targeting grayling an exciting pursuit that requires a few thoughtful changes, starting with what’s in your fly box.

Steve shared one of his go-to Winter patterns, a proven favourite he fishes throughout the colder months: the Peeping Tom.

At its core, the Peeping Tom is a Shuttlecock CDC pattern, an exceptionally effective emerger style fly for targeting rising fish. When fished on the surface, the natural buoyancy of the CDC allows the fly to sit perfectly in the film, with the hook suspended just beneath the surface. This lifelike presentation closely imitates emerging insects and can be irresistible to grayling feeding confidently in Winter conditions.

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile Winter pattern, the Peeping Tom is well worth adding to your box. Give it a try this season and get out on the water to target the elusive grayling.