Fly Tying
Bad Bug, Good Bug: Tying a Spotted Lanternfly Pattern
There really are no bad bugs, just bad humans. Infestations of Japanese Beetles, Gypsy Moths, Emerald Ash Borers, and a host of other alien invaders are all the result of humans introducing insects to places far removed from their natural range, whether by accident or intent. In the absence of the predators and diseases that normally keep their numbers in check, they can run amok and reproduce explosively.
Variations on a Rock Worm
I couldnβt find any reliable information as to when we anglers started calling the free swimming larva of Rhyacophilidae caddis βRock Wormsβ. In late 19th and early 20th century literature, such worms were lumped into a category called βcreepersβ and there werenβt to my knowledge any specific patterns to replicate them. However, in Montana Flies (Grant, 1981) George Grant gives Franz Potts of Missoula, Montana credit for the term βRock Wormβ.
Cahill Frenchie Fly
The Cahill Frenchie is a pattern that attempts to bridge the gap between jig nymphs and emergers, if such a place exists! At first glance, the inclusion of pale yellow dubbing may appear to be a hot spot or trigger, but there's more than meets the eye. Even better, this pattern can be varied to "match" various mayflies in the waters you fish. Before we get there, let's briefly investigate the fly's design, a variation of the ever popular Pheasant Tail.
Origins of the Blob Fly and Tying the FAB Fly
These rather bizarre fly patterns come to us from the reservoir trout fisheries in the U. K. An Internet search of βBlob Flyβ will reveal an array of information on tying these patterns, the materials used, how to fish them, and also a lot of controversyβwhich is not unexpected.
Mopping Up With the Mop Fly
While I canβt say Iβve exactly βmopped upβ with the Mop Fly, I have used it with some success. Like a lot of ugly flies that donβt fit our theories of imitation, but sometimes work very well nevertheless, the Mop Fly has its detractors. If you wouldnβt be caught dead with a Mop Fly on the end of your leader, of course you are under no obligation to use one. On the other hand those of us who are more open-minded are under no obligation not to. All of the wise cracks about the fine line between being open-minded and having a hole in oneβs head notwithstanding.
Choosing a Crayfish Fly Pattern
Guest Blogger: Mary S. Kuss, life-long avid angler, licensed PA fishing guide, founder of the Delaware Valle...
Spin a Yarn: A Guide to Fly Tying Yarns
Guest Blogger: Michael Vorhis, author of ARCHANGEL suspense thriller, OPEN DISTANCE adventure thriller &...
Three Methods of Weedless Fly Design
Guest Blogger: John Satkowski, Toledo, OH, fly tying demonstrator and instructor, you can find him @ River R...
Choosing a Style of Fly Tying Scissors
There are so many varieties of fly tying scissors available that choosing a pair can be confusing. Weβll attempt to explain the different styles and shed some light on picking out the right scissors for your needs. As you read this, keep in mind that choosing the right scissors has a lot to do with personal preference. Many styles have the same size blades, but there are some offerings that work a little better for certain situations.
Chicken Parts: All About Hackle Feathers
What we will discuss here is whatβs found on the outside of the birdβfeathers! Many novice or intermediate fly tyers donβt really understand the basics, let alone the finer points, of the differences in the various feathers found on chickens and the factors that determine their appropriate uses in fly tying. Hereβs some information that I hope will help.
Beautiful Flies vs. Ugly Flies
Do you have to be able to tie flies that look like the perfect flies tied by professionals to catch fish? Absolutely not. One of the finest fly fishermen I know who fished the waters of the world from Scotland to the Rockies and Alaska is one of the worst fly tiers I have ever known. The flies that come off his fly tying vise look like one of your most productive flies that have been chewed on by dozens of trout. This expert fisherman catches fish regularly in spite of the fact his flies look like they had been chewed on for a week by a goat.
The Eggie Special Dry Fly
The Eggie Special is a classic Michigan dry fly that was designed by a Grayling, Michigan fly fishing legend, Eggie Bugby. This fly is known throughout the area, but intricate details have been difficult to solidify. Until now.