Black Pennell

Black Pennell: The Universal Dark Imitator

Devised in the 19th century, the Black Pennell remains one of the most effective and popular patterns in the loch angler’s fly box. It is a fly of elegant simplicity, and its darker dressing means it’s often the first choice when trout are focused on small, dark food items.

Tied for Stealth and Success:

• Classic Profile: Tied on the slimmest side, the Black Pennell is a phenomenal imitation for emerging buzzers, midges, and small dark nymphs. Its sparse dressing allows it to move subtly and sink naturally in the water column.
• Versatile Placement: While it’s known to be deadly on the middle dropper, its clean lines make it a great point fly in a team, especially in clear or calmer conditions. It’s also an excellent early-season pattern when the weather is still cold and dark insects dominate.
• Trusted Quality: Every Black Pennell is hand-tied by me, a fellow angler, focusing on the quality of the black hen hackle and the flash of the silver rib—two keys to its timeless effectiveness. This is a confidence pattern you won’t want to be without.