Don’s Grasshopper

Created by the late Don Dixon, Don’s Grasshopper was our Fly of the Month for April 2017, when Don also demonstrated the pattern at one of our club fly-tying nights. With its layered foam body, contrasting wing case and choice of leg colours, it’s an appealing grasshopper imitation designed to tempt fish looking for a substantial terrestrial meal. A fitting addition to the Hastings Fly Fishers Fly Box and a reminder of Don’s contribution to the club.

Materials

• Hook: Size 6 2x
• Thread: Yellow or clear mono
• Body: Double layer yellow/green or fawn/green foam
• Wing case: Yellow foam
• Legs: Green, yellow, fawn or brown – your choice

How to Tie Don’s Grasshopper

1. Cut out the shape of your hopper – about 40-50mm long by 5mm wide.
2. With hook mount in the vise, lay a bed of thread along the shank of the bend.
3. Lay a thin bead of super glue along the hook shank and tie the body on at approximately 1/3 from the hook eye.
4. Tie in the wing case on top of the body at the same location.
5. Tie in the legs – one pair on each side.
6. If you feel inclined – segment the tail of your hopper with thread or fine mono.