How to Tie a Natural-Looking Buzzer Fly: Step-by-Step Guide
With: Steve Cullen Fly Fishing & Fly Tying
The buzzer fly is a highly effective pattern that imitates aquatic insects, making it a must-have in your fly box. It’s easy to tie and mimics the look of a nymph, perfect for enticing both rainbow and brown trout.
Materials Needed:
Strong buzzer hook (e.g., H35XH extra heavy)
White thread (for body)
Red-brown synthetic quill (trout line tapers)
Antron (white for the breather)
Natural pheasant tail fibers
Black thread (for thorax)
Whip finish tool
Scissors
Step-by-Step Guide for Natural-Looking Buzzer Fly
Step 1: Secure the Hook and Thread
Start by securing a strong buzzer hook (H35XH extra heavy) in the vise.
Attach white thread, winding down to create a solid thread base but not all the way to the hook bend. Leave room for the thorax.
Step 2: Apply the Synthetic Quill
Take a red-brown synthetic quill (trout line tapers) and ensure the sticky side faces the hook shank.
Start winding the quill from the middle (not the tip) to create a segmented body, ensuring a smooth transition with color contrast.
Continue wrapping until you reach the thorax area, creating nice segmentation.
Step 3: Add the Antron Breather
Cut a small section of white Antron and tie it onto the hook at the front.
Leave a bit of Antron in front of the eye to create a natural-looking breather effect.
Trim any excess at an angle for a neat finish.
Step 4: Attach the Pheasant Tail Fibers
Select a couple of pheasant tail fibers and attach them on each side of the hook for the legs.
Split the fibers evenly down the middle and trim the stub ends.
Step 5: Finish the Thorax
Swap to black thread and create a compact thorax.
Build the thorax with enough bulk to give the fly a buggy look.
Finish by creating a whip finish and trimming the excess thread.
Step 6: Final Touches
Pull the pheasant tail fibers up and over the thorax, securing them in place to form the fly’s "wings."
Trim any stray fibers and give the Antron breather a slight upward tilt for added realism.
Ensure the fly’s thorax has a natural, messy look.
Step 7: Final Trim and Clean-Up
Trim any excess Antron and tidy up any stray fibers for a clean, polished finish.
Pull the Antron breather forward and trim it even with the eye of the hook for a natural appearance.
