Tenkara terrestrials?
The deadline for Fly Swap VII on the Tenkara USA forums is here. So Brian and I have to decide what we’re tying — and tie 8 flies each real quick.
The theme this time around is terrestrials — or, as acheateaux puts it, “The Big Fat Fly Swap.”
A couple weeks ago we stocked up on supplies to experiment with big ol’ honkin’ terrestrial patterns.
Twenty-four dollars buys a LOT of deer hair on eBay. Wish I had more colors, though.
And four dollars buys a lot of foam.
Some of the first experiments: beetles and such
Hoppers and the like.
Experimenting with foam and silk line to make bulging eyes and antennae to imitate the natural (top).
Two attempts at a foam frog go for a swim. I thought about tying a frog for the swap...
...but when I learned that trout sometimes eat swimming mice, I decided I had to tie a mouse fly pattern.
So I learned how to spin deer hair.
I didn't find it as difficult as some people make it sound.
After packing on about eight stacks of deer hair, I started shaping my first deer-hair mouse.
Somehow the general shape of a rodent emerged. I tied on a partridge feather and swept it forward to imitate whiskers.
Which makes it a sakasa kebari. Kind of.
My second mouse goes for a swim in the aquarium.
So now I am busy tying lots of mice.
And after experimenting with all sorts of giant foam and deer-hair monsters, what terrestrial did Brian decide to tie for the “Big Fat Fly Swap”?
A Size 26 aphid.
Those look awesome! So much better than my lame attempt at mini hoppers…..but I think they will catch fish…..I hope..
Thanks, Steven. And I like your mini hoppers! I plan to catch fish on the one I get.
way cool! love the hopper with silk cord.
But it’s a Big, Fat Size 26 Aphid, isn’t it?
Exactly! Since the natural itself is pretty plump, yes, it’s a big, fat Size 26.
Very cool Ashley! I have messed around with stacking deer hair a little…it’s definitely a challenge, well done.
I’ve posted a couple killer terrestrial tutorials on my blog. Be sure to check them out.