This is the nymph of the Great Western Grey Drake,
(Siphlonuridae Siphlonurus Occidentalis),
a strong swimmer and no slouch in fast water. Quite
successful when used in a river or river/lake
confluence. Named after Medicine Lake, Jasper National
Park, Alberta, and area where this mayfly abounds.
2. Tie in ribbing floss and body floss and wind body
floss to form slender tapered body. Twist fine blue dun floss
and wind forward as ribbing.
3. Tie in rolled section of grey goose wing quill by the
butts with tips pointing rearward. Tie in bronze peacock herl
and wind thorax.
4. Tie in v-section grizzly hackle, three fibers each side
under thorax. Bring goose quill fibers forward over thorax
to form wing case, tie off, form head and whip finish.
Tying note: 3/0 thread of dark grey or dark brown may be
used for the rib. Vee-section legs and tail gives the artificial a
more life-like appearance and it always rides properly (upright).
Fishing the Fly
This fly is more productive using a long non-tapered leader
with a floating or sink-tip fly line. Strip-retrieve with
a darting motion much like a small minnow. Check back next
week for the dry of this same insect! ~ Reg G. Denny