"The Thunder and Lightning was once known as the
"Great Storm fly," deriving its name from the fact
that in its early days it was universally used when the
water was rising after a storm. At this time the appetite
of the salmon or grilse is thought to be more keen, and
with the proper fly success more probable. But of late
other patterns have become more valued for this state
of the water, and the Thunder and Lightning is considered
best to raise fish in low clear water, or for autumn
fishing.
"Mr. George Kelson writes: "it has been proven that the
fly can also be advantageously used on other occasions
than in clear water. Under trees in bright water, or
in water that is slightly discolored, the fly certainly
shows well, and therefore should kill well. I cannot
call to mind any other standard pattern that is equally
effectual, regardless of changeable weather, state of the
water, either clear or dirty, or the humor of the fish.
There is no river that I have ever visited where it has
not succeeded at one time or another."
The recipe is: Thunder and Lightning (As tied by Mary Orvis Marbury)
Tag: Fine oval tinsel and yellow floss.
Tail: Golden pheasant crest.
Butt: Black ostrich herl.
Body: Black floss.
Rib: Embossed gold tinsel and orange hackle
(palmered).
Throat: Eurasian jay.
Wing: Teal; bronze mallard over.
Shoulder: Jungle cock.
Topping: Golden pheasant crest.
Horns: Blue and gold macaw.
Head: Black ostrich herl.
The recipe above is for the fly shown at the top -
one of nine different variations I found for this fly.
Another version is shown at the right.
Credits: quoted sections and information from Favorite
Flies and Their Histories by Mary Orvis Marbury,
re-published by Lyons Press.
Color photo and recipe from Forgotten Flies.
We appreciate use permission! ~ DLB
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