How to Tie a Callibaetis Comparadun

Fly Tying

Mar 2

A Callibaetis Comparadun is a must-have dry fly for imitating mayflies in slow-moving water, offering a perfect blend of realism and buoyancy. Follow this step-by-step guide to tie your own!

Material List

Hook: Size 14-18 dry fly hook
Thread: UTC 70 or 8/0 Uni-thread (tan, olive, or gray)
Tail: Coq de Leon fibers
Wing: Medium deer hair
Body: Callibaetis-colored dubbing (tan, gray, or olive)
Head Cement: Optional for durability

Step 1: Secure the Hook and Start Your Thread

Place a size 14-18 dry fly hook in the vise and start your thread at the eye, working back to the midpoint of the shank. Use a fine thread like UTC 70 or 8/0 Uni-thread in a color that matches the natural.

Step 2: Prepare and Tie in the Tail

Select a small clump of Coq de Leon fibers for a natural-looking tail. Measure the tail to be roughly the length of the hook shank, tie it in at the midpoint, and wrap it securely back to the bend.

Step 3: Form a Smooth Thread Base

Wrap the thread forward to create an even base for the body. This step ensures a smooth taper when adding dubbing.

Step 4: Tie in the Comparadun Wing

Cut a clump of medium-diameter deer hair, remove the underfur, and stack the fibers to align the tips. Tie in the hair at the 1/3 point of the shank, allowing the tips to extend forward. Flare the hair evenly around the top of the shank, then post it up with a few wraps for stability.

Step 5: Create the Dubbed Body

Use a Callibaetis-colored dubbing blend (tan, gray, or olive) and apply it sparingly to the thread. Dub a tapered body from the tail to the wing, ensuring a natural mayfly silhouette.

Step 6: Finish the Thorax and Whip Finish

Continue dubbing in front of the wing to form a well-proportioned thorax. Whip finish behind the eye, ensuring a secure knot. Trim any excess materials and apply a small drop of head cement for durability.

Fly Tying