“One of the more troublesome problems connected with the smallest
of imitations, particularly this one, is the matter of eliminating
the light pattern, something which is incompatible with the
appearance of these tiny creatures on the surface film. Hooks of
the finest wire and good temper are an invaluable aid, thinly
built bodies are another, and wings tied flat over the thin
bodies supply the requisite impression of bulk since trout cannot
see things in three-dimensional terms anyway unless they are
gifted with the power of imagination. In addition to these aids,
I have suggested the use of hackle to obtain the maximum support
with the fewest of fibres, accomplished by tying in at the bend
of the hook and turning in the manner of ribbing hackle, making
one complete turn at the bend, a half turn at the middle of the
body, and one complete turn of the head, or 2 1/2 turns in all.
It is an effective method and helps to make them ride very lightly
with a minimum of disturbance to the surface film.”
~ Vince Marinaro
Originally published July 20, 2002 on Fly Anglers Online by Deanna Birkholm.