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Orthodontic Flies

2 comments

It' Electrik

My neighbor works for an orthodontist and I asked if she could get me some of those little rubber bands that kids put on braces. I originally wanted them for rod building (you know to hold the guides on while wrapping), but when I saw the colorful selection she got for me I started thinking about flies.

I tied a few midges with the things. Although maybe some look more like tiny caddis larva. Whatever they look like they look good to me (and hopefully to the fish). The pattern is simple, just wrap the little elastic band around the hook (these are size 20) and you have an instant segmented body. Finish with a thread head and call it done.

Micro Sakasa Kebari

4 comments

Ah…the allure of the small. The tiny fly and the frustration that goes along with tying and fishing these morsels appeals to a certain group of fly anglers – gluttons for punishment all. I have to admit I am inclined toward this sub-genre of fly fishing. As an attempt to further marginalize myself I thought that I’d explore the darkness and small loneliness in the niche of tiny tenkara flies.

Actually, there was a post on the Tenkara USA Forum regarding small tenkara flies – it got me thinking…maybe I should tie some diminutive sakasa kebari.  Sakasa kebari are the “reverse-hackle” style tenkara fly. These flies are meant to be subtly manipulated so that the hackle pulses enticingly. Do I think tiny sakasa kebari are necessary or even very practical? No, not really. But tied them, so I figured I’d share them. These are all tied on size 22 Orvis scud hooks.

Black Midge Sakasa Kebari:
Hook: Size 22 Scud Hook
Body: Black Thread
Ribbing: Silver Crystal Flash
Collar: Peacock Herl
Hackle: Starling

Red and Grizzly Sakasa Kebari:
Hook: Size 22 Scud Hook
Body: Red Thread
Ribbing: Silver Crystal Flash
Collar: Peacock Herl
Hackle: Grizzly Rooster

Yellow and Grouse Sakasa Kebari:
Hook: Size 22 Scud Hook
Body: Yellow Thread
Collar: Peacock Herl
Hackle: Grouse