In the latest great fly-tying video from Tightline Productions, Tim Flagler ties an imitation of the Baetis nymphs that he finds in his local stream, the South Branch of the Raritan River in New Jersey. This pattern is meant to sink quickly, be very durable, and of course draw strikes from trout.
As usual, Tim’s tying demonstration is full of great tips and tricks that you can use on other patterns. The way he uses the UV cure to create a smooth body and anchor the thread make tying this pattern much easier.
Beadhead Baetis Nymph
Hook: 2X-long nymph hook (here, a Dai-Riki #730), sizes 18 and 20.
Bead: Gold bead, 5/64-inch.
Thread: Yellow olive, 8/0 or 70-denier.
Tails: Coq de Leon fibers.
Body: Stripped peacock herl.
Coating #1: Thin UV-cure resin.
Wingcase: Dyed golden-yellow pheasant tail fibers.
Thorax: Olive rabbit-fur dubbing.
Coating #2: Thin UV-cure resin.
Tools: Plunger-style hackle pliers, bodkin, dubbing brush.
Tim, I look forward to trying this pattern. I find your videos to be the absolute best for clarity, both visually and your crisp narrative. I’ve been tying for 30+ years and have made greater strides in the past few years than ever before thanks to your videos.
Thanks for your great work.
Steve Lant