April 2021.
These are some of the most effective flies we have used in this seasons stream fishing.
A combination of our own creations and some tried and proven patterns from commercial tiers
Great photo system from YR3D allows us to show the flies at their best.

Summer Project - Fly Tying Desk
In preparation for our latest NZ trip I wanted a more efficient tying arrangement to compliment the new Stonfo vice.

Size 8 & 10 Royal Wulf with a well weighted Pheasant Tail nymph proved to be the perfect combination and came off the vice in good time and quality
Chris's tying
It took me a long time to fish MY flies confidently, instead ,casting flies tied by my friends - Craig and Jim. (I knew THOSE flies worked!)
There is nothing more satisfying than producing a fly at the bench- tossing it onto the water & catching a fish, OR even having a fish ( salt or fresh) showing an interest in WHAT you are offering!!
Actually there IS something more satisfying than this -- & that is to have one of your fishing friends catch a fish on a fly that YOU have tied!!
MY flytying- is all about -FUN !! As is all my flyfishing!! But that doesn't mean it is not successful!
So here are a few of MY patterns that are FUN to tie , but more importantly are productive on the stream!!
Cheers

Craig Coltman ties one of his most versatile dry flies, an ideal option for casting inthebubbleline ..
THE ANTRON CADDIS
Fished successfully by Craig in many locations throughout the world, this fly can be tied using a variety of colours to suit local conditions or times of the day.
Tied on a size 12 pre made barbless hook
Black 8/o thread
Underwing, split white Antron
Underbody, soft grey rabbit dubbing
Over wing elk hair
The Cumberland River Beetle
The CRB is a non descript pattern based on the very successful "Humpy". Tied on a Kamasan B160 size 14 or 16, this a very BEETLE-ISH pattern. With a red floss & peacock herl body, a Texas white Tail & a red foam wing case about the same width as the hook. To finish the fly, a grizzle hackle cut off flat with the hook shank.
The pattern floats well, is easy to see, even in riffle water & has a "buggy" silhouette.
I tend to think - if it looks somewhat right & floats in a natural drift, then the fish will take it & they do!! Good luck!!