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My Philosophy on Flies

In my business life I run an advertising photographic studio. I realised many years ago that very little is truly new and original. Most "new" ideas are adaptations of existing themes. I believe the same applies to trout flies. So use your imagination.

There are thousands of traditional flies, many many more than any one fisherman will ever need, so he has to refine the flies that are successful for him. I would suggest a maximum of ten different patterns, probably less. Then it is just a matter of modifying colour and hook size.

I spent a few years tying intricate imitative patterns, many invented more as an art form than a means of catching fish. I have to say it was a good exercise in improving fly tying technique, but little else, especially if the flies so lovingly tied ended caught in trees and bushes. Having got to a reasonable standard I now experiment and adapt traditional patterns to suit myself. I find it hugely satisfying and much more fun to fish.

The Adams

A wonderful fly throughout the season. Last year I caught more fish on this dry fly than any other. If you can master this fly, and it is not difficult, then you have the basis for almost any trout dry fly. Just alter the colour and size, from size 10 down to size 18, even try different materials, use your imagination and experiment. Have fun.

Click here view the Adams movie

Klinkhammer

A great emerger, will tempt fish up throughout the season. Hook size 12 to 16. Trout and grayling.

Click here view the Klinkhammer movie

Deer Hair

A very good friend of mine, Richard Cripps, has been raving on about this fly for some time, so I thought I had better give it a go. It is simple and quick to tie and certainly lives up to its reputation. It sits on the surface well and lasts quite a while before becoming waterlogged, just add a little floatant.

Use a shrimp hook or even a nymph hook, sizes 14 to 18. Definitely a regular in my fly box.

Good for trout and grayling.

Click here view the Deer Hair Movie