Lightning Bug Softhackle SBS

[ScottP]

Softhackle version of a real effective nymph. A beadhead thorax would be cool, too, if you're looking to get it a little deeper, or you could just use the standard nymph pattern.


hook - Dai Riki 280 #14
thread - MFC 8/0 brown
tail/shellback - pheasant tail
rib - x-small wire copper
abdomen - opal mylar tinsel
thorax/head - peacock herl
hackle - brown hen

Part 1

mash barb, start thread about 1 eye width back from eye; tie in wire, wrap to bend and back








take a few pt fibers, even tips, measure (gap width past bend); tie in






pull pheasant down over back, spiral rib forward; helicopter end and cover with thread




tie in a couple peacock herls




prep hackle; tie in

[ScottP]

Part 2

wrap peacock forward to hackle; tie down but don't trim




wrap hackle, stroking fibers back; tie off/trim




take a few more wraps of peacock in front; tie off, trim, half hitch x 2, SHHAN








Regards,
Scott

[Uncle Jesse]

That dog will hunt. I would be tempted to dub the thorax with blue which seems to work well on the Hooch tailwater.

[ScottP]

I would be tempted to dub the thorax with blue which seems to work well on the Hooch tailwater.

And/or tie the body with blue Flashabou.

Regards,
Scott

[Uncle Jesse]

I have often wondered how many flies are tied strictly by the original instruction, unless they are being sold as a specified pattern.

[herefishy]

Or purple. Or pink. Lots of good lightning bug colors