FlyFysher
Elk Hair Caddis
A tent-shaped hair wing and hackled body suggest adult caddis on the surface.
- At the vise
- Beginner friendly
- Common sizes
- #10–18
At the vise.
Work through the numbered steps in order. Use the written materials and proportions as your guide; select an image for a closer look.
Prepare
Cover the shank with thread. Attach ribbing wire and hackle at the bend.
Make the body
Dub a slender body, stopping short of the eye. Spiral hackle forward; counter-wrap the wire to reinforce it.
Tie the wing
Clean and stack a small elk bunch. Set the tips at the bend; bind the hair above the body with increasing tension.
Finish the head
Trim the butts just ahead of the tie-in. Whip finish under the butts and cement the thread.
On the water.
Drift during caddis activity, then try a slight skate if fish respond to movement. Scale down for small sunfish. Compare Elk Hair Caddis and X-Caddis for a caddis rise.
Find your Elk Hair Caddis.
These tyers list flies based on this pattern. Check each listing for its exact materials, weight, and variations.
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Request a custom versionRecipe references
Materials and tying methods may vary between versions. Compare the sources below for this dressing.
Portrait reference
Pattern dressings vary; use the written recipe for exact materials and proportions.
