I have been questioned and sometimes criticized for spending too much time tying streamer flies that are not intended for the wall, but the end of a leader. Is it such a crime tofish with neat or "perfect" streamers? Granted, some do meet their demise in a tree, riverbed or lost fish but I feel it is only a small sacrifice of time spent at the vise. Most streamers are tied to imitate baitfish, which Mother Nature creates extremely well, proportionate and identical on either side. That being the case, your streamers should also need to be constructedand tied accordingly. I realize my method and style of tying is the hard way and can be as tedious as to listening to golf on the radio, but I feel you will like the results. Besides, it's my time I'm "wasting," I tie flies for myself and I enjoy it so I say "no harm no foul." So, if you don't mind "wasting" some time and taking your time constructing your streamers properly (which you will fish with more confidence), please read on.
When constructing the tail, body and head of the streamer make sure you take the time to tie each wrap of thread next to the previous one. A solid and perfect foundation of thread on the hook shank allows you to wrap floss, silks and tinsels evenly and without "bumps. "I know this may sound extreme and in the immortalwords of Big Mike "Don't worry Emmett, the tinsel and thread police won't come and get you if the wraps aren't perfect!", but I cannot tie anyotherway.
Afterthe body has been constructed, tie small bundles of stacked bucktail hair on the underside of the hook shank until the desired amount istied in. Secure in place and reinforce with head cement.
Select two matching pairs of hacklefeathers from a rooster cape or saddle and tiein the wing as close to perpendicular as possible. Securethe wing in place by making a couple of loose wrap of thread and then slowly pull down on the bobbin while adjusting the wing with your otherhand. After you are satisfied with the look and construction of the wing, lock it in place with a couple of X wraps.
After the wing has been properly tied, begin to taper the head area for the shoulder and cheek assembly. By tapering the head the shoulder and cheek assembly will fold in towards the hook shank reducing possible "flaring. "If minimum, careful, and deliberate wraps of thread are used in thesefinal steps, it will serve as a strong foundation for a properly finished head.
Aproperly finished head is the signature of the tier and a symbol of a well made fly, so take your time and do it right...THE HARD WAY
Emmett is a avid fly fisher and amateur tyer. His flies have been published on multiple on-line magazines and in Paul Schmookler and Ingrid Sill's book, "Forgotten Flies. "His flies have also be shown in an American Angler Magazinearticle titled "Midget Streamers". If you would like to contact Emmett, you can e-mail him at emmettj123@aol.com
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