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.