How to Tie : a Griffith’s Gnat

From: tightlinevideo

Today, tightlinevideo is tying one of the most iconic midge imitations: the Griffith’s Gnat. Known for its simplicity and effectiveness, this fly imitates a cluster of midges, making it a go-to pattern for trout. While we’ll be tying it on a small size 20 hook, this versatile fly works just as well in sizes 14 through 24.

Materials:

• Hook: Size 20 Dickey Dry Fly Hook (or similar)

• Thread: UTC 70 Denier Black

• Tail: Single Peacock Herl

• Hackle: Size 20 Grizzly Hackle (Whiting's 100's pack)

• Tools: Bobbin, Scissors, Whip Finisher

Steps:

1. Start the Thread:

   • Place the hook in the vise and load the bobbin with 70 Denier black thread. Begin your thread wraps just behind the hook eye, making 4-5 turns to secure it. Snip off the tag end.

2. Add the Peacock Herl:

   • Select a single peacock herl, starting a couple of inches down from the tip. Secure the herl to the hook shank, working it to the far side. Snip off the brittle tip.

3. Tie in the Hackle:

   • Using a size 20 grizzly hackle, strip fibers from both sides of the stem. Tie the hackle in at the hook bend with the dull side facing forward. Wind the thread forward to just behind the hook eye.

4. Wrap the Peacock Herl:

   • Carefully wrap the peacock herl forward up the hook shank. Make sure to maintain light tension to prevent breakage. Secure the herl with a few wraps of thread in front and behind the herl, then trim any excess.

5. Wrap the Hackle:

   • Palm the hackle forward, wrapping it around the herl. Tie off the hackle with the same method as the herl: a wrap behind, one in front, and another behind. Snip off any remaining hackle tips.

6. Finish the Fly:

   • Whip finish the thread in 3-4 turns, being careful not to trap any hackle fibers. Snip or cut the thread free.

And there you have it, the Griffith’s Gnat—ready to fool fish with its lifelike midge cluster look. Try it in various sizes for different fishing conditions! Tight lines!