Stonefly Nymphs

[twitty]

Was looking at tying some stonefly nymphs for steelhead. What size/ colors do people use? Probably doing a Kaufmann's or some variation on that. Also saw something about using the tines off a plastic fork to get the right body shape. Anyone ever try this?

[Gunnar]

My goto stone pattern is a schmidts antron bug in black, size 6. Its a quick and easy tie and deadly.

[1siena]

I did a search for the Schmidts stonefly. Do you use teh estaz coloring, or do you keep everything black? How about adding the color "butt/tail" the pics show? I am also looking at tying some stoneflyies and I am a new to tying. DO yo have teh recepie?

[Gunnar]

I use the dark brown antron. It doubles as the tail and shellback. I believe you can view the recipe and Fly on Rays website www.schmidtoutfitters.com if you are unable to find it let me know and I'll post the recipe

[1siena]

Gunner...
That is where I found the bug. However, inorder to view teh recipe and "how to" you need to buy a membership. I don't want to sound cheap, but I really do not want to buy one more membership. If you don't mind, could you post the info or pm with anything I need to know when tying.

I would really appreciate it. Thanks.

[Gunnar]

Sure thing bro! Keep an eye on this thread and I'll post a recipe and pic ASAP

[Bull Market]

Schmidt's Black Krystal Stone (Ray Schmidt), was my most successful stone imitation last winter. I found the recipe in Bob Linsenman's book, "Best Streams for Great Lakes Steelhead."

[Gunnar]

http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p55/Trutta/IMG_0641.jpg


Hook: TMC 3761 size 6
Thread : UTC 70 Black
Body: Black medium chenille
Tail & shellback : dark brown Antron
Hackle : black saddle
Eyes : medium black mono or black bead chain


- I start by tying in the eyes first, it gives me a point of reference. I prefer black bead chain, but this pic has mono. Give yourself enough room so you don't crowd the hook eye later.

- Take thread back until it's even with the barb of the hook.

- Take a length of Antron slightly more than the length of what will be the completed fly, and double the material. I think it looks better than a thin section (too anorexic). Tie in about 1/2 length of shank, then fold back the rest and place a couple wraps ( to keep out of way until needed ).

- Tie in hackle, fold back to keep out of way.

- Tie in Chenille. I like to lay a length of chenille against the hook to add a little bulk, otherwise it'll be too skinny. I've tried using large chenille, but didn't like the way it looked.

-Wrap chenille forward, and tie off in front of eyes.

-Wrap hackle forward, tie off behind eyes.

- Take Antron forward and tie off in front of eyes.

- Whip finish. I do 2 - 5 turn, and your done.

- Trim any loose ends or tail, if needed.


I also tie this in natural brown with brown hackle, and it has been equally effective as a "hex like" pattern.
Sorry about the crummy pic. My camera doesn't do well up close.


Good fishing!
Gunnar

[scotty1834]

Nice post Gunnar. I haven't seen a good fly recipe on here in awhile.

[1siena]

Thanks Gunnar. I'll tie soem up this evening.

[twitty]

I'd like to thank everyone for their input. After looking over several patterns this is what I made.
http://i495.photobucket.com/albums/rr318/mkdewit/IMG_0276.jpg

Hook: Mustad 34007 Size 6
Thread: Black Ultra
Weight: Lead wire
Tail: 2 Black Goose Biots
Ribbing: .5mm Black Stretch Magic
Abdomen underbelly: Hare's Ear Antron
Shell Back: Brown Swiss Straw
Thorax: Black Antron
Legs: Stretch Magic

I think I might have to get supplies to make one of those Antron Bugs, looks a lot simpler to make.