How to tie: a Pink Squirrel

With: Savage Flies

The Pink Squirrel is an effective attractor nymph pattern created by John Bethke from Wisconsin. Whether you're imitating a scud or just aiming for a flashy, buggy look, this fly is a must-have for your fly box.

Materials List:

  • Hook: Size 12 scud hook (1x heavy)

  • Bead: 2.8mm tungsten bead

  • Thread: Black 70 denier UTC

  • Tail: Pink crystal flash

  • Ribbing: Red medium wire

  • Body: Gray squirrel body hair dubbing

  • Hot Spot: Pink synthetic dubbing

Steps:

  1. Prepare the Hook and Bead

    • Place a size 12 scud hook (1x heavy) in your vice and add a 2.8mm tungsten bead.

    • Add 6-7 wraps of 0.015 lead wire behind the bead to secure it in place.

  2. Thread Base and Tail

    • Begin wrapping your black 70-denier UTC thread, building a smooth base behind the lead wire.

    • Tie in 4 strands of pink crystal flash for the tail, extending just beyond the hook gap.

  3. Add the Ribbing

    • Tie in a strand of red medium wire for the ribbing, securing it along the shank. Ensure it's snug to create a smooth transition.

  4. Dub the Body

    • Wax your thread lightly and apply gray squirrel body hair for the dubbing.

    • Build a slightly tapered body, stopping just behind the bead.

  5. Wrap the Wire

    • Wrap the red wire ribbing in tight, even segments up the body to lock in the dubbing.

    • Secure the wire behind the bead and break it off.

  6. Create the Hot Spot

    • Apply wax and then dub a small ball of pink synthetic dubbing (about the size of the bead) just behind the bead.

  7. Finish the Fly

    • Whip finish the fly with two rounds behind the bead. Optionally, apply head cement for extra durability.

    • Rough up the body with a dubbing brush to give the fly a more buggy appearance.

Previous
Previous

Fly Fishing Washington's Cascade Wilderness

Next
Next

Why Fly Fishing Outshines Traditional Fishing: High-Adrenaline Saltwater Adventure