In this week’s How to Tie Video feature, The Fly Fiend shows us how to tie the Articulated Stonefly.
Learn About This Fly
Difficulty: Intermediate
The stonefly nymph is one of the most common flies used by anglers when fishing big flows in regions from Pennsylvania to California. These insects are largely dependant on rich oxygenated waters, and will often be found in cold, clean rivers and streams. In their larval stage, they spend their time submerged, feasting on the larvae of several other smaller insects such as caddis and mayflies. Because of their ravenous diets, stoneflies are known to grow to be quite large and are often the first choice of any hungry trout.
Because of their size and abundance of these flies, they have grown immense favor amongst anglers and tiers alike. This popularity has lead to hundreds of different variations in how these flies, larval and adult states alike, can be tied. The articulated nymph variation we see above is one of the most interesting as well as effective stonefly patterns.
By utilizing a dual-hook body, or articulation, this fly possesses an extra level of movement in flowing currents, and not only looks more life-like when submerged, but will draw more fish as its movement acts as an additional attractor. Fish will be hard-pressed to pass up this protein-packed morsel whenever it happens to enter their general vicinity. Not to mention, it is an incredibly fun tie, and a great way to explore new methods.
Ingredients:
- Hooks: Rear Hook Mustad Nymph Sz10 2XL AND Raven Specialty Hook
- Head: Sz10/ 1/8 Gold Bead.
- Legs: Black Flexifloss.
- Body: Wapsi Round Vinyl Rib Size Med.
- Wingcase: Black Think Skin
- Thorax: Black/Pheasant Tail Ice Dub.
Now you know how to tie the Articulated Stonefly
Video and ingredients courtesy of The Fly Fiend
