|
|
|
|
|
Red Eyed Damsel
Tied by John Simonson |
|
Eyes: 30 lb burned red amnesia
Tail: Barred wood duck fibers
Rib: Fine copper wire
Thread: Olive 6/0
Wingcase: Olive antron yarn
Legs: Olive partridge fibers
Abdomen: SLF light damsel dubbing
Thorax: SLF light damsel dubbing
Hook: TMC 200R sz 14
|
|
| Tying Instructions |
(variation of Jim Cope's Damsel) The key to tying this pattern is making the fly thin. Damsels are very thin so keep that in mind when tying this pattern.
- Lay a base of thread and tie in the tail fibers (a thin bunch 2/3 shank length).
- Tie in rib.
- Dub a slender body (about 2/3 shank length).
- Wind rib forward (6-8 wraps) and tie off.
- Build up a small round thorax.
- Tie in the antron wing case ( should extend over the eye of the hook. You will wrap the antron back, over the tie in point for the eyes).
- Tie in the olive partridge fibers (the fibers should extend past the sides of the thorax to about mid body. Use 3-5 fibers each side).
- Tie on the pre made mono eyes on top of the shank near the eye of the hook.
- Wrap the dubbed thread around the eyes (fig 8) to form a small head. Finish with the thread in front of the thorax.
- Pull the wing case over the head and secure with 5-6 wraps of thread between the thorax and head. It make a thin spot between the thorax and head.
- Whip finish and clip the wing case leaving a small lip extending over the thorax.
|
| Fishing Tips |
Making mono eyes: I use a forceps to hold the mono and use the side of the candle to melt the mono. I also use green amnesia for green mono eyes.
Tying in the legs: I use a full partridge feather and clip the tip out of the feather. This leaves a v shape in the feather. I leave 3-5 fibers on each side and hold the rest back, out of the way. Slide the prepared feather up against the thorax and wrap thread around feather (not too tight). Now you can shorten the legs if needed by pulling the stem which keeps the leg length even.
I've had success with a number of techniques....usually some erratic retreive with short strips (3-5) combined with short pauses or trolling slowly near the edge of tullies and over weed beds twitching the line every so often. The key is finding where in the water column the fish are feeding on the damsel and present your imitation there. Good Luck... |
|
|
|
One central forum for all goods related to fly fishing and tying. This is the place to sell your extra goodies or find that special bargain. For a limited time no listing fees or commissions will be charged...