Tied by Matt O'Neal of Savage Flies on YouTube
The All-Fur Wet Fly might not have originated with Dave Hughes, but he’s the one who put it on the map. Somewhere between a traditional nymph and a classic wet, this pattern blends form and function in a way that’s unmistakably Hughes—equal parts practical observation, entomological study, and time on the water.
Dave Hughes is a writer, teacher, and lifelong student of the craft. He’s known for his work on wet flies, and this one stands out as a favorite—not because it’s flashy, but because it just plain works. The All-Fur Wet Fly is simple to tie, drifts naturally, and can be fished in a variety of ways, from a slow swing to a dead drift. It’s one of those flies that fills a quiet but permanent space in your fly box.
This version is tied by Matt O’Neal of Savage Flies, who brings Hughes’ original dressing to life with his signature clear instruction and no-frills presentation. It’s a humble-looking fly, but as many of us have learned the hard way, those are often the ones that catch the most fish.
Materials
- Hook: #12-16 standard wet or 1x heavy
- Thread: Orange
- Tail: Hare's ear (guard hairs from Hare's Mask)
- Body: Hare's ear dubbing (underfur with a few guard hairs from Hare's Mask)
- Hackle: Squirrel body fur (in split thread or a dubbing loop)
