FLYMPH FORUM

Coincidentally both William and tie2fish gave me some dyed seal that could be called golden olive, although here it just looks yellow. I wanted to see what I could do with it, partly to commemorate the rendezvous in Roscoe and Livingston Manor last week. Any resemblance to insects living or dead is purely coincidental.

I know it doesn't make much sense to use black silk for spinning the thorax when the tying silk is light olive, but I liked the contrast created by the black undercolor.

In retrospect I think I should have given the abdomen a few more wraps down the bend.

Hook: 14 Grip 14723BL
Thrread: Pearsall's light olive silk, waxed
Hackle: Honey dun hen
Tail: Cream cock whisks
Abdomen: Corticelli buttonhole twist 3010 pale yellow
Thorax: Golden olive seal on black silk (spinning block)

You do good work sir but, what are cock whisks ?

I'm almost afraid to google it.

Yeah, I wouldn't dare Google it either.
Whisk is the term that my Dad used for the long barbs on a feather that were capable of being used for tails. I kinda like it because it reminds me of my cat's whiskers.

Maybe it is an obsolete term now. Hadn't thought about it until you asked.

Lance

Beautiful fly Lance. Agreed. I like the contrast of the thorax under body. Lovely design. The modern hook adds a nice flair to the classic stylings.

Wayne - You crack me up. I sure hope I get to fish with you some day.

I have to admit, I use "cock whisks" as tails on most of my SH/flymphs. Fighting with those short hen whisks can drive me to pulling out my face whisks.
Great job Lance!

Lance,
I am in love.....with this pattern. So cool looking and very fishable. Please keep us fed with your great designs! Immitation is the sincerest form of flattery.....may I flatter you at some point in the future with my immitation of this classic pattern? Absolutely gorgeous!
Dougsden

Well, you're properly "hooked" now, Lance! This is by far the most creative thing you've done and posted so far, and it's a beauty, for sure.

Whisks is an older English-English term, where these days I tend to use "barbs".

Nice fly Lance

Cheers,
Hans W

Hey everyone, thanks for the kind comments.

I'm glad that in lieu of convincing entomology on my part, the forum made up for it with a little etymology on whisks.

And Doug, copy all you want. If this little critter catches anything other than pan fish, let me know.

Best,

Lance

"If this little critter catches anything other than pan fish, let me know."

Got a feeling it will. Very nice pattern