The McGinty
In the annals of Fly-Fishing there are many, many patterns, which have fallen into
the abyss of obscurity. It is sad so many of us are trying to fool our favorite
quarry with our own concoctions, and relegating to the ages so many
beautiful and effective flies of years gone by.
The McGinty is a wonderful example, and when Jim Birkholm, Editor
of FAOL asked me to do this fly as he had many requests for it, well
frankly delighted does not quite encompass my feelings.
Charles McGinty conceived the McGinty in 1883. McGinty was from Chicago and came up
with this as a bass fly originally. Do not be deceived however, trout of every description
absolutely love these.
They have the appearance of a wasp or perhaps a bumblebee, which having fallen into the river
is now part of the forage, which help fish grow into the monsters of our dreams.
Bounced off of a rock or bank, thrown into a stream side bush and being allowed to plop onto
the water, is the sound of the ‘dinner bell’ for many a carnivorous fish. Dead drift this fly in
the current and you may be amazed at what you can put on the end of your fly line.
Materials
Hooks: 3906B sz 6 to 12.
Thread: Black 8/0 thread (heavier if you do not have 8/0).
Tail: Red Hackle Barbules.
Body: Alternating Yellow and Black Chenille.
Beard: Brown Hackle Barbules.
Wing: White Tipped Mallard Quill.
Originally published June 5, 2000 on Fly Anglers Online by George E. Emanuel.