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Summer can be a challenging time for the fly fisherman. Often upwings and caddis reduce in numbers when compared with the spring. More so, the fish can become very picky. When fish are 'smutting' and apparently rising to nothing, often they are locked on to terrestrial insects. Aphids, ants, beetles... the list of insects that find their way on and in the surface is long. Here I offer a tutorial for a pattern that I have come to rely on throughout the warmer months and even later in the year. My thanks to Paul Procter for introducing me to this devastatingly effective pattern.
Perhaps it's the obvious, solid outline or the way it 'plops' onto the surface. Maybe it's the fact it sits deep in the surface, but fish will really move to intercept this pattern. Cast into foam lines and under the over-hanging branches, fish relish this superb little fly.
A decent fish falls to the charms of the beetle imitation:
What makes it even better? It is very simple to tie. No need for fancy foam cutters - I cut a simple wedge of foam. Try a variety of colours ~ I like black, grey and yellow. A sighter tag on the top of the fly helps you to locate it very easily on the water. Carrying versions with a variety of colours can help in different light conditions.
Hook: Partridge SLD #18 - #12
Thread: Sheet 14/0
Dubbing: peacock herl or coloured dubbing
Wing Case: Foam
Sighter Tag: TMC Aero-wing or Funky Fibre
A pink sighter with a grey, foam shell back:
The all-important fish-eye view:
In the Summer, the river bank flora is brimming with insects - many of which find their way onto the water's surface:
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