On similar lines to Hans’ Dame Juliana, but a dry fly.
If you get the wing on a Wullf fly just the tiniest bit too long they will fall “face forward” onto the water. Using a Wally wing reduces the weight and bulk at the head and goes some way to relieving the problem. These were tied for imitating the true mayflies (Ephemerella) so are on the large size. As a general patten it works well in a variety of sizes.
Hook: 8 to 14 long or standard shank (Examples on 12s L/S)
Thread: Tan UTC 70
Wing: Duck flank tied Wally Wing style
Tail: Blue Dun cock hackle fibres.
Body: Hare’s ear mixed with a little antron and CdC.
Hackle: Golden Badger.
(As these were for a customer they have the large varnished head customers expect!)
Excellent, as always. When you were forming the Wally Wing, did you just moisten the duck flank? I found that I had to place the feather I was using in a damp paper towel and microwave it for about 20 seconds to get it to split properly.
No, but I find it easier to grab 4 or 5 loose fibres to peal. Usually a couple come off as I peal but sometimes it is needed. Its a good job I don’t need to microwave them… haven’t got one!
What I do do is moisten my fingers when forming the feather into shape for tying in as the wing. Wet finger and thumb and rub together to make them tacky.
Cheers,
A.
A.K. Best suggests using white Turkey T-Base feathers, in lieu of calf tail or calf body hair, on Royal Wulff’s. Don’t get the bulk but do get the brightness.
