Here I am looking at two different flies (Just Old Flies), originated by two different fly tiers, both live in the Butte Montana,during the 1930's.

At first glance both fly patterns look identical, yet after reviewing the material list, you will start to notice the differences in the photos.

So which came first, the 3-Bar-X, or the Butte Fly?
3-Bar-X

Originated by Laurn Ashliman of Butte Montana, 1930s.

Hook: Mustad 9672(3XL0,size 4 - 6.

Thread: Black 6/0.

Tail: Forked from black horse mane hairs.

Body: Formed by parallel weave of sorrel horse mane dark over light.

Wing: Red squirrel tail.

Legs: Black horse mane hair tied on either side below wing and bent to form an "X".

Antennae: Pair of black horse mane hairs.


Butte Fly

Originated by Wilbur Beaty of Butt, Montana, 1930s.
Hook: Mustad 9671 (2XL), size 4-10.

Thread:: Red 6/0.

Body:: Woven by sandy mite weave of gray floss over orange floss.

Wing:: Trude-style gray squirrel tail."


~ Parnelli
Chartered Member of "Friends of FAOL"!

Down in the meadow in a little bitty pool
Swam three little fishies and a mama fishie too
"Swim" said the mama fishie, "Swim if you can"
And they swam and they swam all over the dam




[This message has been edited by Steven H. McGarthwaite (edited 26 July 2005).]