Tying Caddis fly

[Riverkeeper]

Are you doing an underwrap of thread on the hook shank before tying on the other stuff? That is key.

[globalfisher]

Yes, the underwrap helps a lot and that is the main key. Also when you are making the wraps around the head on top of the elk hair, pull the thread into your left pointer finger and thumb, pinching it so it does not get loose, then wrap once around the elk hair then do it again about 4 times. I think I might not of explained it very well but I can be more specific if you would like.

P.S This is Geoff from Globalfisher...

[ 01-06-2004, 02:02 PM: Message edited by: globalfisher ]

[Fish_N_Russ]

extend a little bit of dubbing (or whatever you use for body material) on the EHC, then you will have a better base to tie hair on.

for clear shellbacks, try cutting some strips of heavy freezer bag.

[Chromaflage]

This is a little cheesy, but it might help

Caddis Wing

Good luck

ORS

[GasJockey]

Thanks guys for the help. I knew there was something I was missing. Just goes to show you can't learn everything from a book.

Trent

[float2ber]

For a clear shell back, try a drop of epoxy, especially over a few strands of pearl flashabou pulled forward over the top of the thorax. Looks very buggy and attracts fish for sure.

[GasJockey]

OK, got a vise for Christmas and have started tying fly's. I fish over in central Oregon most of the time so I'm focusing on Caddis and bead head nymphs. Question is, is there a secret to tying on the wings of the Elk Hair Caddis so that they don't spin around? Even when I have the thread really tight, when I twist just a little, the hair is more than willing to just spin around. I've had this happen w/ alot of store bought caddis also, so is this just normal? Also, I have been trying to tie a bead head nymph w/ a "clear shellback". So what material am I suppose to use for the shellback. Guy at Sportsmans said to use Swiss Straw. But when I do, they don't look like the picture that I'm suppose to be following? Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Trent

[TillamookChinook]

Yes, there is a secret.

TC

[TillamookChinook]

I don't know much about shellbacks.

I have had the problem with deer/elk hair "spinning" around the hook, too. I think you need to hang onto it long enough to get several wraps of thread around it. Then it should stay put when you let go. After you trim it the head cement should also secure it.

Maybe that "spinning" action is the way to create some other patterns, like the head on a Muddler. Others can probably advise you better about that.

TC

[greenbuttskunk]

yes, a good underwrap and body to start, then the stacked elk hair. Give it a good pinch and hold in place against the shank behind the eye and wrap twice, then pull with some pressure and set the wing, then keep wrapping.
Just takes some practice. As for caddis nymphs, they are some of the easiest nymph patterns to tie, and seem to catch fish everywhere. I have a few go-to patterns I tie and they are fast to tie and the fish seem to chow on them. Keep practicing, each fly gets easier and nicer.
GBS

[Mojo]

GBS is dead on, and I find that a few wraps in front of the little clump of hair that makes the head help hold everything in place. Also a small drop of head cement on the wraps over and in front of the elk hair, adds durability and helps keep things from slipping.