Walton Powell was a fly fisherman and fly tier as well as a famous rod maker

Fly Patterns
1

Hi,

I “rediscovered” my shadow box of Walton Powell’s flies. Now, I apologize for the photo as I took it with my iphone. But, thought those familiar with such a famous rod builder might get a kick out of seeing some of his flies - in his own handwriting!!!

Thanks for looking,

Byron

I found his style of tying to be interesting. In addition to The “rough character”, almost all are tied with the tail pointing slightly downward. I personally think it was to make up for oversized hackle. I was in the same club with his grandson. He demonstrated tying some of Walton’s flies, and he tied them the same way with the tail slightly bent down.

2

Very cool. They really have a classic look to them. When were they tied?

3

I think it was about 1995 or so…

4

I just read a great article by a guy who took Walton fishing in Northern Ca in the late 1990’s. At the end of the article, he listed the dry flies used on the trip: buzz hackle, Pitt River Special, and Yellow Belly.
Must still work as they caught some large trout.

http://www.fallonfly.com/oldsite/10050.htm

5

Byron , I know your a little busy but please post a better photo when you can. I would love to see more detail of the flies.
Thanks

6

Tex,
I will do that.

7

Hope this is better. Problem is, the flies are against a black shiny background which makes it very difficult to see well.
Byron

I must say, that the Yellow Belly Nymph (which is a dry fly) looks as though the current day Crackleback could have been a variation of it???