Mirage Beadhead.
After posting the Hydropsyche Larva varation last week it got me thinking what is the fly I mostly use with it since I rarely fish it alone. Instead I usually have a Czech style nymph rig with 2-3 flies. There are of course many go to -patterns but this simple little fly has been proving to be useful in many situations and is a good choice if you are looking for a searching pattern for trout or grayling.
It’s super fast to tie, only thing slowing you down is if you wish to coat the UV glue body with a layer of varnish but even that’s not really an issue if you do the bodies ready and complete the flies the next day or after couple hours break.
Again I like to use TMC 2457 #16-18 hooks as they are heavy and strong for the size. I usually fish these in places with strong current so I have to be able to trust the hook when I’m playing a fish.
Hook: TMC 2457 #16-18 or similar
Weight: Gold Tungsten bead and some leadfree wire on the thorax.
Underbody: Build a smooth tapered underbody with a light tying thread.
Body: UTC Mirage Tinsel – Opal #M. Coated with UV cured resin like Bug Bond and with a light coat of varnish for added shine and durability.
Thorax: SLF Spikey dubbing – Fox Squirrel (Natural)
