For those of you who are familiar with the Babine Special, a long time favorite winter steelhead fly pattern, this version of the fly may seem a stretch. But come on, have heart, and forgive a little creative messing around, will ya?
This winter steelhead fly of 2012 is one characterized by fresh thinking about old flies. It is not so much that the old flies were not effective, not a case where the old fly pattern wouldn’t still catch fish, but more the case that we steelhead fly tyers are continually fiddling around with new materials and techniques, always dreaming about creating the perfect fly, the fly that will catch one more fish than last year’s flies.
This here Babine Special still has the hint of two eggs. It is tied on a jig hook, just in case a guy or gal wants to suspend it from an indicator. This isn’t necessary, because this fly will swing or bottom-bounce with the finest of your egg patterns. The Rubber legs are another 2012 enhancer to add a little wiggle and jiggle to entice a grab.
Hope you find inspiration and steel in this fly.
Jay Nicholas
January 2012
Babine Special Jig Fly
Hook: Gamakatsu Jig 90 degree Heavy Wire
Thread: White Lagartun 150
Tail: Arctic Fox
Krystal flash fl. fucsia
Flashabou Holo Pink
Butt: Fl. Fucsia Chenille
Body: Lagartun Mini Flat Braid Silver
Eyes: Pained Pearl White Large
Head: Fl Shrimp Pink Chenille Med.
Legs: Loco Legs Bonefish Pink
So, this is what happens when Lady Gaga and Snooky start tying flies. Jay, I’m sorry but this is the ugliest fly in the entire world…..
That’s because Chris didn’t turn it over to take the photo. Tie in on a leader, lay down on a gravel bar, dangle it above you and pretend you are a fish in the water, and then see how you evaluate it. OK, maybe you got somethin’ there. Maybe try it after a 6-pack of Bud Light? Or maybe not.
JN
https://oregonflyfishingblog.com/2011/10/20/steelhead-will-eat-anything/
I love this fly Jay! -MS