Alexandra
Simple pattern that’s better known as a trout fly and was quite controversial fly early on in the trout streams of England. This version however is aimed more for salmon and I tied it on an antique double hook to give it even more bulk.
The dressing is nice and simple but there are couple things to note on the wings. Make sure that you get feathers from both right and left side when buying Peacock sword feathers. It’s important to have equal amount of fibers from both sides on the wing and preferably both on their own sides. This way the wing will be symmetrical and not curve to one side. I usually tie the wing from 2 to 3 smaller bunches on both sides to make it more secure.
Here’s the pattern as per Pryce-tannatt for this fly with numerous variations.
Tail : Scarlet Ibis.
Body : Flat silver tinsel.
Throat : A black or badger hackle.
Wings : Peacock sword feather in strips.
Cheeks : Jungle Cock.
