Using the basic dry fly we learned last time as a reference pattern, we
will expand on that learned skill to fan tails and split tails. We’ll
also tie our first wing this week. Each fly is a stepping stone to the
next fly. Each fly will add a new dimension to your tying skills.
I mentioned split tails last time. The advantage to split tails is
increased buoyancy and balance. They also look a lot like the split
tails that occur on mayflies. A twist on split tails is a fan tail. Our
first fly this time will have a fan tail. Otherwise, it’s the same fly
as the one we tied last time. We’re just adding to what we already
know.
Originally published c. August 2, 2008 on Fly Anglers Online by Al Campbell.