Tiny flies are the bane of my fly-tying existence, so when I come across a small pattern that is actually easy to tie, I tend to pay attention.
And, this time of year on the West’s wild rivers and tailwaters, tiny flies are often the name of the game.
Above, Tim Flagler ties the Micro Caddis Larva, a simple pattern that can be deadly on finicky winter trout. Dead-drifted in the water column, this little bug should tempt cold-water trout to what looks like an easy meal. The fact that it can be tied by nearly anyone—even ham-handed guys like me—makes it a valuable addition to your winter fly box.
Check it out.
— Chris Hunt