CDC and Elk

Originally created by Hans Weilenmann, the CDC and Elk has become a bit of a staple for me. I like the fly because it is simple to tie (the name is practically the materials list), it floats really well with only limited additives, and it catches fish.  I think that the CDC on this pattern creates a lot or surface disturbance and movement as CDC tends to do with lots of other patterns that we all like.  Staying true to form, many have chosen, as I have, not to utilize elk for this pattern in favor of deer making the head on this fly a little easier to create.  In general, this makes a great caddis imitation and is a go to fly for many small streams.

Annual Fly Tying Clinic - Trout Unlimited

I attended the Annual Fly Tying Clinic put on by Trout Unlimited this past weekend.  I was a little under the weather, but I still managed to participate in the silent auction and various raffles offered at the event.  While there, I got the opportunity to watch Greg Garcia tie on a few of his favorite inventions.  I have really enjoyed working with Greg over the years and I owe him immensely for the great advice that he has willingly offered me over that time that has ultimately improved my technique on the river.  However, this was the first time that I have been at a venue where Greg was actually tying.  One of my favorite patterns of his is the Mini Hot Attractor.  It is a simple attractor, very easy to tie, and in my opinion, a dead-ringer for the yellow sally stone fly.  Below is an example of one that I tied shortly after the clinic.

Hook – TMC 200R 14-18
Thread – Yellow 70
Body – Yellow thread wrapped with micro tubing
Hot Spot – Red Flash
Underwing – SLF dubbing in sand
Overwing – Bleached yearling elk
Thorax – Yellow SLF Dubbing with yellow hackle