Tying The Tactical Caddis

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So I have this tin. Just a basic Altoids tin, with magnets Zap-A-Gap'd in place. It is my test bin, where new patterns go to live or die based on how they work. The past two seasons there has been one pattern that remained through all 4 seasons of fishing, catching fish Spring through Winter.

After two trout seasons and 18 months in the tin, it will remain a keeper in my box. Give it a try on your home waters and by all means let me know how the pattern works for you.

For the full blog and tying video, click on the link below:

http://www.ralphsflybox.com/2016/01/tying-ralphs-tactical-caddis.html

Tying some Tactical Caddis up soon, Ralph. It combines many of my favorite bits - scud hook, bead, rib, Ice Dub - in an impressionistic caddis pupa.

I'm intrigued by your "test bin". Seems like a good but simple way to prove out experimental patterns.

My process is much more short term. When I try a new pattern, I usually tie up several variations. I put them in an small plastic case which I scrounge from tying leftovers. Most of them are empty Dai Riki hook containers with a leftover Tiemco magnetic square in the bottom. The next time I'm in an appropriate situation, I try new patterns. When one is promising, I tie more, and they eventually migrate to my regular fly boxes.

Your long tryout period is probably a good idea. Much less hit or miss.

Great Tie, Ralph, Thanks a lot !