The EZ-Nymph

As I promised last week, it’s time to tie our first fly. First we need to look at the traditional way you will see flies listed in fly tying books. If you know how they are usually presented, it will be easier to pick out the key things you need to know.

First, there is usually a narrative that describes something about the fly and how or when to use it. Next, there is a list of components used in the fly. Then you’ll probably see a short list of tying steps, sometimes assuming you know a lot about fly tying. Finally, there is often more narrative about the fly and how it is useful.

Since I tend to be a little less conventional, you might not see this series of events listed this way in my fly tying series. Don’t worry, it isn’t written in blood anywhere that you must do things the conventional way. Just kick back and enjoy, it’s about to get fun.

List of materials:

Mustad 3399A or 3906B hook or equivalent Size 10 to 16.

Pheasant tail feather - A long one from the center of the tail, can be dyed.

Black 3/0 or 6/0 thread.

Tying steps:

1. Start the thread on the hook. You did this last time, so I won’t go into detail again.

2. Pull about 12 strands of feather fiber from a large pheasant tail feather. Since length is important, be sure to get these fibers from the upper 2/3 of the feather. Trim the base of feather stem material.

Thanks again to Al Campbell.
Ron & Beth

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