How to Tie the Skinny Nelson | Fly Tying Tutorial

From: InTheRiffle

Today, we are going to be tying a tried and true fish killer, The Skinny Nelson it’s a simple and effective fly pattern that imitates a small mayfly nymph with a touch of flash for attraction. In The Riffel shows us how quick and easy this fly is to tie.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Start the Thread Base:

• Attach black thread near the eye of the hook.

• Wrap a smooth thread base down to the bend of the hook.

2. Tie in the Tail:

• Select 4–5 pheasant tail fibers.

• Measure the tail slightly shorter than the shank of the hook and tie them in at the bend.

• Trim any excess pheasant tail fibers.

3. Add the Ribbing Wire:

• Tie in a piece of silver wire at the tail, ensuring a smooth transition along the shank to avoid lumps.

4. Build the Body:

• Use the black thread to form the body of the fly, ensuring a smooth and even layer.

5. Rib the Body:

• Wrap the silver wire evenly up the body to create segmentation.

• Secure the wire near the thorax and break off the excess.

6. Attach the Flashback Material:

• Tie in a medium-sized piece of flash material at the thorax, positioned over the back of the fly.

7. Add the Peacock Herl:

• Tie in 2–3 strands of peacock herl.

• Wrap the herl forward to form a bulbous head. Secure and trim off the excess.

8. Finish the Flashback:

• Pull the flash material over the top of the thorax, doubling it back for durability.

• Secure with thread wraps and trim the excess.

9. Whip Finish:

• Use a whip finish tool or your fingers to secure the thread and trim off the excess.

Material List

• Hook: Standard nymph hook

• Thread: Black

• Tail: Pheasant tail fibers (4–5 strands)

• Ribbing: Silver wire (or gold if preferred)

• Body: Black thread

• Flashback: Medium-sized flash material

• Thorax: Peacock herl