Stoat's Tail
Recipe:
| Hook: | 2-10 double (Daiichi 7131) or single (TMC 7999) |
| Thread: | 6/0 Black |
| Tag: | Silver oval tinsel (fine) |
| Tail: | Golden pheasant topping |
| Body: | Black floss |
| Rib: | Silver oval tinsel (medium) |
| Wing: | Black squirrel |
| Throat: | Black cock hackle (swept back) |
Uses:
This is a well established pattern for Atlantic salmon and sea trout, tied on a range of hook designs it can be used in a variety of conditions in high and low water. Its understated colour scheme make it especially good for fishing clear and low water.
How to fish:
Present using a wet-fly swing on a floating line, sink-tip or full sinker, depending on the run and conditions.
Notes
History: This pattern is named after the stoat's tail, the tip of which provides the fur for the wing. The pattern is recorded in a few publications but there is no definitive record of origin. Sutherland and Chance say the Stoat's Tail originates from Park on the river Dee, while Conrad Voss Bark ascribes James Wright of Sprouston-on-Tweed as originator of the pattern. Based on these references the SToat's Tail appears to have come to public attention in the late 19th century.
Variations: Like many Atlantic Salmon patterns this can be dressed on a variety of hook designs. The wing can be tied with dyed squirrel tail or bucktail. Traditionally the body should be tied with five ribs.
Bibliography: The Encyclopedia of Fly Fishing, Conrad Voss Bark (July 1987): US, UK (New edition).
Trout and Salmon Flies, Douglas Sutherland and Jack Chance (October 1983): US, UK.
