The Bassano Klinkhammer, crafted by Tasmanian tier and guide Chris Bassano, imitates various stages of the mayfly life cycle with impressive versatility. Its slender profile passes easily for a spinner, while its unique design allows it to sit in the water column like an emerger and float high enough to resemble a dun. This versatility makes it an exceptionally effective fly pattern for anglers seeking to mimic mayfly behaviour. Additionally, the simplicity of its construction and the accessibility of its materials make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced fly tiers.

Thanks to its coral post, the Bassano Klinkhammer remains highly visible. Tying it on a lightweight Klinkhammer or emerger hook allows it to dangle enticingly below the surface film, a crucial feature for mimicking an emerger when many fish are most eager to strike. Tournament anglers have found this fly particularly effective, and it has helped them catch numerous large brown trout in Tasmania. You can fish it as a stand-alone dry fly during a hatch, or use it to suspend a small nymph or stick caddis, thereby offering dual opportunities to tempt fish.

Fed’s Bassano Klinkhammer Variant uses different materials than the original fly. This version employs a scud size 14 hook, black 14/0 thread, fine silver wire for the rib, and black possum fur for the thorax. The wing, crafted from poly-yarn treated with Scotch Guard, enhances flotation, and the fly features black saddle hackle.

Despite the added buoyancy from Scotch Guard, Fed recommends kinking the post before fishing to ensure optimal performance. This variant maintains the core attributes of the original while introducing subtle material changes that can make a difference in specific fishing conditions.

Materials

• Hook: Scud size 14
• Thread: Black 14/0
• Body: Black thread
• Rib: Fine silver wire
• Thorax: Black possum fur
• Wing: Poly-yarn treated with Scotch Guard
• Hackle: Black saddle hackle

Tying Instructions

1. Cover the hook with thread.
2. Tie in the silver wire.

3. Wrap the thread back to the tie-in point.
4. Tie in the poly-yarn post.

5. Rib the hook with the silver wire.
6. Tie in the hackle and post it up.

7. Dub a thorax with the black possum fur.
8. Parachute the hackle and tie it off.
9. Trim the post and the bottom of the fly.