Black Magic

[flyfishwithme]

I first came across this as a variant dry fly pattern and asked Mike to research it for me. His research indicated that it was originated by Frederick Mold and mentioned in his book "Presenting The Fly to The Trout" (1967) as a beetle pattern. Mike believes that this is a variation of the Peacock and black.

Hook: Tiemco 103BL size 17 (Straightened)
Thread: Black Uni thread 8/0
Body: Black thread
Thorax: A single peacock herl
Hackle: Genetic black hen - 3 turns.

I am sure it is a good fly but what I want to share is a variation of it. This variation has been deadly so far this autumn for rising grayling. Especially in a size 19.

The variation is a red holographic rib over the body.
A very simple and effective fly.

[redietz]

I suspect it would be deadly anywhere.

[flyfishwithme]

Mike, thanks for those additional insights.

[William Anderson]

nice pattern. It has all the elements of a fly that would be effective in a lot of situations. Nicely tied.

w

[Hans Weilenmann]

Very nice, Philip, both of them

Cheers,
Hans W

[letumgo]

Excellent flies, Philip! The red holographic rib is a beautiful addition. Just the right touch of sparkle and color to stimulate a strike. Thanks for sharing.

[BobSmith]

Hi Phil,
Although the Black Magic is a attributed to Fred Mould it was in fact given to him by Bob West who used to be a member of the Bradford Waltonians Angling Club and fished the river Wharfe on the clubs waters which in them days started at Ferryhouse Reach at Bolton Abbey and finished a High Mills in Addingham.
Both Bob West and Fred Mould would of course have known Jim Wynn.
There is of course another version of the Black Magic which has a red copper wire rib, this is Known as the Kilnsey Black Magic and is still used by members on the club waters.