When we were out in Idaho a couple of weeks ago, this was one of the hot flies on the Henry's Fork. So when we returned home, Tim Flagler - Tightline Productions, suggested we make a video on tying this fly. The fly is fairly simple to tie, and can be tied in black or cinnamon (see photos below) to imitate any number of flying ants found throughout North America. This is the time of the year they are abundant, and we recommend you carry them and be prepared to fish them right into October.
RECIPE
Hook: Dry fly #14-18
Thread: 6/0 Danville Olive (Use whatever thread you prefer)
Abdomen: Wapsi Sow/Scud dubbing
Legs: Pearlescent copper krystal flash
Wing: Dun zelon
Head: Rusty brown Australian Opossum
Here is the same fly tied in black, and also cinnamon, using EP Trigger fibers for the wing.
Sharpen your hooks!
6 comments:
Wow. What a great pattern, I must tie a few up this week. Thanks
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Looks like a great pattern. Two questions - 1. Do you use the Sow/Scud dubbing because of color, because you want the fly to sink in the film, or both? 2. Do you grease the total fly, just the wing, or neither when fishing.
I enjoyed these simple ant patterns. Thanks for taking the time to video and post.
Mike's Spring Creeks book is one of THE fly fishing books. Our native ants are smaller, maybe a true #22-#24 and similarly coloured. The closed season is approaching fast here so this is bookmarked for the tying season :)
Best, AB
Anon - I used the sow/scud dubbing because that's what Mike Lawson uses. I don't use any paste or floatants other than Frog's Fanny after taking a fish or two to restore the fly. That said, if you like to use them, go for it.
Andy, Great to hear from you. That book is a good one, loaded with good info and tactical advice. I also tie ants down to #22 or so. Can't see them, but the fish can.
Best, Matt
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