How to Tie: The Oil Slick Baetis

In this week’s “How to Tie” video feature, Flying Ties shows us a fantastic nymph to tempt some of our trout friends this Fall, the Oil Slick Baetis. 

Learn About This Fly:

Difficulty: Easy

In many parts of the United States, trout are entering their Fall feeding mode thanks to dropping water temps and pre-spawn behaviors. This means that you’ll be able to find success on the water in nearly any capacity, but mostly subsurface. Whether fishing nymphs or streamers, trout will be happy to entertain lots of different food items if presented well. One staple in the fall box that can’t be forgotten this Fall is a simple yet deadly euro style nymph, the Oil Slick Baetis. 

This fly won’t create too many problems on the vise, even for novice tyers. If you are hesitant to tie patterns that use a dubbing loop, this tutorial has a great tip for overcoming that with ease. CDC is a material that is delicate, yet extremely fishy, and a common trait for several of my personal favorite euro style patterns. Keep in mind that CDC can be torn up easily, so tying a large batch of the Oil Slick Baetis is wise. 

This pattern will find success no matter if suspended under an indicator or tight lined. Buggy profiles are made easy when using natural materials like CDC and often make anglers lives much easier on the water as well. Fish this one with the utmost confidence in several sizes and body colors, even throwing in a hotspot on occasion. The Oil Slick Baetis is a nymph that should be both in your fly box and on the end of your line this Fall season. 

Ingredients: 

Now you know how to tie the Oil Slick Baetis!

Video and ingredients courtesy of Flying Ties.

Greg Stohrer
Greg Stohrer
I grew up fishing on the Seacoast of New Hampshire. Since 2020, I have been a part of the content team, most known for the weekly “How To Tie” series. The species I’m fortunate to call my favorite and lives in my home waters is the Striped Bass, a fish many on the East Coast of the US cherish. Whether it’s writing articles or contributing to conservation efforts, being a part of the industry and community is what makes me happiest. One thing Flylords has shown me over the years is how incredible our community is. Whether spreading our passion for the sport or conservation efforts around the world, it is a privilege to get involved in such an incredible industry. 

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