Variations on a Theme – Woolly Bugger
The Woolly Bugger is a very versatile pattern that will catch fish on virtually any lake or river. It can be tied in a variety of colour combinations, usually natural ones such at black, brown and olive.
Fly of the MonthCategorySubscribe
Welcome to our “Fly of the Month” feature, where we highlight a different fly pattern (or patterns) each month to enhance your fly fishing experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, our monthly spotlight will provide you with essential information, including detailed tying instructions, tips on when and where to use it, and the best techniques for maximising its effectiveness.
Join us on this journey as we explore the art and science of fly fishing, one fly at a time!
attractor attractor nymph bass flies beetle caddis caddis fly clousers dry flies emergers freshwater flies freshwater fly gurglers hairwings hoppers midge emergers midges minnows nymph terrestrials nymphs poppers saltwater flies soft hackle stimulator streamers terrestrials wet flies wet fly wet terrestrials zonkers
Rabbit Fly
Primarily tied as a general nymph pattern, the Rabbit Fly also makes a pretty good imitation of small dragonfly nymphs that emerge in huge numbers on many Australian lakes.
When it comes to tying flies for use on lakes, it pays to have as much built-in action as possible.
Foxy’s Horror
A fly designed by Rod Fox, of Hunter Valley Fly Fishing Club, appropriately named Foxy’s Horror. Great bass fly for rivers.
Foam for the body (the yellow for visibility), zonker strip for the tail and cactus chenille for the underbelly.
Flashback Pheasant Tail Nymph
This pattern is a variation of the classic Pheasant Tail Nymph. It’s body, tail and rib are the same as the original, but the thorax of this pattern includes a few strands of pearl Lurex laid over the peacock herl.
Red Tag
The Fly Tyers Bible, pp. 36-37
Throughout Australia the Red Tag is excellent fished to surface feeding trout in rivers or still water (it is also a must-have for herring!). The fly is a half imitator and half attractor; the red tag, the peacock herl and to some extent the brown hackle attracting the fish.
Black Tadpole
Designed by Terry Griffiths and Peter Gathercole in the 1960s, the Tadpole takes the use of turkey marabou for highly mobile wings and tails to it’s logical conclusion. The Tadpole’s tail is highly mobile and much longer than its body, giving it plenty of movement in still water.
Weed Fly
Materials
- Hook: size 8 – 10
- Ice dubbing (olive or fluoro green)
- Thread: green or mono
If you are chasing Luderick then this is the fly you need!
Designed to represent the natural seaweed that they eat this fly just has to be put in front of them and they will eat it.
Flashtail Whistler
Source: InTheRIffle.com
The Flashtail Whistler is a great fly for Pike, Peacock Bass and Largemouth Bass. It is a large profiled baitfish pattern that “whistles” when cast (due to the large bead chain eyes).
The Flashtail Whistler can also be used in saltwater applications for offshore species and jacks.
Cat’s Whisker
The Cat’s Whisker is one of the best, if not the best, when it comes to stillwater trout fishing. There are many variations but the original remains as effective today as it was decades ago when Bob Church popularised the pattern after being given a handful to try by its inventor David Train.
Grasshopper
Materials
- Hook: Size 6 2x
- Thread: Yellow or clear mono
- Body: Double layer yellow/green or fawn/green
- Wing case: Yellow
- Legs: Green, yellow, fawn or brown – your choice
Instructions
- Cut out the shape of your hopper – about 40-50mm long by 5mm wide.