suggestions for moving water wet flies

[Allison]

My stillwater fly boxes are in pretty good shape now, just a few more things I may want to add.


I'd like some suggestions for a good 8-10 patterns I should tie up for moving water. I've only fished moving water a few times yet, wondering what you'd make if you were, say, going to fish the Yak. I know times of year affect choices, but hopefully you can give me some good basic ideas. I have a very good selection of matierals to tie with, my only big limitation is I don't know how to tie wings or parachutes yet. I was thinking of doing a gold ribbed hare's ear and a stonefly nymph to start with and go from there based on suggestions. Thanks!

[sharpshooter223]

a pattern that has worked for me in faster moving water is a clouser tied with bead chain eyes sorta "jigged" up and downstream through the middle of the water

[scottflycst]

Allison,
I fish alot of wet flies and nymphs, love the methods and the sport. A great resource is Dave Hughes book entitled "Wet Flies." I consider it a must have for anyone who enjoys wet fly and soft hackle fishing.
Good Luck.
Scott

[Philster]

Black Brad Jackson ugly bug. In those sizes. Vary color if you want. Great on the swing too.

[mike doughty]

if you're nymphing and i could only suggest one pattern, it would be a soft hackle of sorts. my favorite is a hares ear soft hackle with a red wire rib.

[Les Johnson]

I swing spun marabous from coho season throught steelhead season. I prefer the single plume version without added weight, floats or beads. I tie mine on Gamakatsu T10-6H in sizes 1/0 - 4. Using a short leader and sinking tip line it gets deep enough to hook fish on the swing. I also like any of the classic northwest steelhead flies such as the Skykomish Sunrise, Polar Shrimp, Brad's Brat and Doc Spratley. Long establised California patterns are the Comets (any of them), Horner Shrimp, Humbolt Railbird or Thor. In Oregon, winter classics include the Red Ant, Black Prince, and Spruce.
Mix a few of these in with contemporary bunny flies in different colors and you'll be able to fish moving water from the Smith to the Thorne.
Les Johnson