So, you have picked out a vise and gathered the needed tools to tie flies. Now what? Where you live and the type of fish you will be fishing for is going to dictate the type of flies you are going to want to tie. If you live in Alaska like us, the most popular type of fly to fish with is a streamer. We have selected five patterns that are suited to beginner fly tyers and have included instructional videos to accompany them. Below each video we have included a button to purchase all the materials needed to tie each pattern. Not only do all of these patterns fish effectively, but the techniques used in these flies will be helpful as you become a more advanced tyer. Enjoy!
1. Honey Hole
This fly, created by one of our stellar ex-employees is downright effective. Initially tied for Cuttthroat trout and Dollies here in Southeast Alaska, it has become a hugely popular pattern for Grayling in the interior. Use the olive/white version for a fry imitation and the pink/orange version as an egg-colored late summer attractor.
2. UV Polar Starlite Leech
The UV Polar Starlite is almost as easy to tie as it is easy to cast. This is our take on the original Starlite Leech. The craft fur wing adds amazing movement and UV Polar Chenille shows up like no other material we have found. Tie them up in different color combos and see which color you like the best!
3. Lead Eye Egg Sucking Leech
This fly is just a wooly bugger with eyes and an egg head. Many trout anglers first fly ever tied is a Wooly Bugger, it was for me. Expanding on that an Egg Sucking Leech was the first Alaskan pattern I learned how to tie. This may be one of the most famous Alaskan fly patterns of all time. It has accounted for countless trout, Dollies, and salmon. Big and bright versions for salmon or smaller and natural colors for trout, we have total confidence in this pattern.
4. Clouser Minnow
The Clouser Minnow became famous long before it made its way to Alaska. The original chartreuse/white not only works for big Stripers, but it is deadly on saltwater King and Silver salmon. This fly can be tied in small natural colors and thrown at spring trout and dollies as they gorge themselves on salmon fry in the spring. This easy to tie baitfish pattern is a great foundation for more difficult saltwater patterns.
5. Conehead Alaskabou
The Conehead Alaskabou was revolutionary in its time. This may be one of the first patterns that looked to movement rather than color. Don't get us wrong, color is important, but the way marabou breathes, especially as the body of a fly was something new. The small cone allows this fly to cast effortlessly. Whether you are swinging this with a two-hand rod or adding split shot and stripping it in, the Conehead Alaskabou is as Alaskan as it gets.
Summary
These five patterns all catch fish. They are all also easy to tie and can be made in any color combination the tier can come up with. Once you have nailed these patterns you will have the basics down and can start experimenting with more complex patterns. Remember even old patterns can be revisited with new materials. One of the coolest parts of tying your own flies is they can be exactly what you want them to be. If you have any questions regarding these patterns, videos, or materials don't hesitate to reach out to us at 907-586-1550 or shoot us an email at info@alaskaflyfishinggoods.com.
The crew at AFFG
