Tying Instructions

Start thread at head and wrap back to the tail tie in position

Tie in CDC Feather by the tip with the feather hanging off the back of hook

Move thread forward to just behind the eye

Attach hackle pliers, twist feather 3-4 times

Palmer CDC feather forward to form the body, stroke any loose barbules back while wrapping

Tie off CDC feather, clip the excess

Clean and stack a small bunch of elk hair

Measure and tie in elk hair wing (wing should extend to the bend of the hook)

Whip finish

Clip off butt ends of elk hair to form head

How to Fish

 

I saw this pattern a few years ago and have been experimenting with it since then. It is now my ‘go to’ dry caddis pattern. The original pattern I saw recommended not using any dry fly floatant (as it will ruin the CDC natural floating abilities). I prefer to carefully separate the elk hair wing from the CDC and apply a light coat of floatant to the wing. I hold the fly with the two materials separated until the floatant dries. If you decide to try the pattern, do not buy the CDC ‘puffs’ , you want the CDC feathers that are 1”-3” long. I like the natural dun and have also had good success with shades of yellow and olive. I tie these flies in sizes 14-18. Fish them as you would any dry caddis pattern. I like the pattern because of the ‘buggy’ appearance and ease to tie. The pattern also is suprisingly durable. After catching a fish squeeze the excess water out on a piece of cloth (like your fishing shirt), make a couple false casts and the fly is ready to go. I also like to pull up and out on the elk hair wing after each fish. If anyone has any questions please feel to e-mail me

[email protected]