How to tie a Hot Spot Pheasant Tail
With: Tim Cammisa
Let me introduce you to the Hotspot Pheasant Tail, a reliable pattern with some simple yet effective tweaks, including a bright orange bead that fish can't resist
Materials Needed:
Vice: Stonfo Transformer
Hook: Haic H450 BL Competition Hook (Size 16)
Bead: Slotted Tungsten Bead (2.5 mm)
Thread: Seer Fly Wax Thread (12/0, Brown Olive)
Tail Material: Coq de Leon (CDL) - Medium Pardo
Ribbing: Seer Fly Wire (0.1 mm, Copper)
Body: Pheasant Tail Fibers
Thorax Dubbing: Seer Fly Ice Dubbing (Copper) and Simon Dubbing (Peacock Bronze)
Steps:
Setup the Hook:
Secure your Haic H450 BL hook in the vice. Attach the slotted tungsten bead to the hook, ensuring it's well-seated.
Create the Thread Base:
Using the Seer Fly Wax Thread, build up a thread dam behind the bead. This creates a smooth ramp for the body and helps lock the bead in place.
Tail:
Select 4-6 fibers of Coq de Leon (CDL). Measure the length to match the body length you prefer. Secure the fibers to the hook with loose wraps. Adjust the length as needed, making sure they’re angled slightly upwards to add a bit of uniqueness.
Ribbing:
Attach the Seer Fly Wire at the rear of the hook and advance it towards the bead. This wire not only adds a bit of weight but also protects the pheasant tail body. Counter-rib the wire to ensure even spacing and finish with a couple of wraps in front of the ribbing. Tear off any excess wire.
Body:
Tie in a few pheasant tail fibers at the rear, trimming the tips for a smoother finish. Advance the pheasant tail forward, making sure to keep the body tight and even. Secure the fibers behind the bead.
Thorax:
Dub the thorax using a mix of Seer Fly Ice Dubbing (Copper) and Simon Dubbing (Peacock Bronze). The choice of dubbing adds a bit of shine and contrast to the fly.
Finish:
Whip finish the fly and add a small amount of brushable super glue to secure the threads. Trim any excess dubbing and make sure the fly looks clean and ready for action.