Howdy,

This month’s flies include an old standby and a Riverwood creation.  Both are effective most anytime of the year for their respective target species.

Trout Fly of the Month – November

Scud

Recipe

Hook: Curved Nymph size 10-14

Thread: Olive

Body: Olive Dubbing

Shellback: Scud Back strips

Rib: Heavy Wire

Legs: Partridge, Pheasant or Grouse

Fly fishers all over the world are finding that Scuds are very productive for many species of fish. They are especially important flies for fly fishing in tail waters and on spring creeks. Some large fish key specifically on scuds because of their very high nutritional value.

The Scud thrives in a nutrient rich environment with lots of vegetation. Lake fishing can be very successful fishing these near weed edges and near grassy flats.

Steelhead Fly of the Month – November

Metal Butt Skunk

Recipe

Hook: Salmon 1 – 5

Thread: Black

Tag: Heavy Green Wire

Body: Black Angora

Rib: Oval Silver

Collar: Red Schlappen Hackle

Wing: Skunk, Fox or Bucktail

The Metal Butt Skunk is a variation of the Western favorite, the Green Butt Skunk. The primary differences are the absence of a tail, the use of heavy metal wire for the “butt” and substitution of angora for chenille in the body.

This fly sinks quickly and is a great choice for fishing deep runs and pools. I prefer tying it with either a skunk or fox tail wing because of the movement and flow of those materials, but buck tail can be used as well.

Other variations of this fly can be effective as well, including a purple angora body or by using red wire for the butt which will look like the traditional Purple Green Butt and Standard Skunk flies.

Tight Lines!

Dave