How to tie a Snake Fly - Creating a Lure with Davie McPhail

One of the most well-known modern patterns, The Snake was made famous when the power of the hook and the angler's ability allowed for the catching of double-figure browns in Rutland's South Arm. The Snake is a powerhouse in trout fishing, especially effective throughout the Summer and Autumn months (June - November).

All of the materials needed to tie this fly are available from Glasgow Angling Centre as listed below, but as always if you need any help finding materials or substitutes then we'll be happy to help. Without further ado, here's Davie McPhail tying his take on the next modern classic - The Snake Fly.



Materials Used:
Hook: Any choice of hook in a Sz8 could be used for this fly, as Davie says it's your choice, however, the hook in the video is reminiscent of a Fulling Mill 31530 Competition Heavyweight: Sz 8. Another suitable hook, as mentioned by Davie above, would be a Grub hook, such as the Fulling Mill Super Heavyweight Grub Hook.
Braid: Davie uses a 20lb Braid, similar to the Fisheagle DynoBraid Spin, which is available as a 100m Grey braid.
Thread: Uni - Black 8/0
Body: Black Rabbit Dubbing
Wing: Black Rabbit Zonker Strip and Silver / Gold Flash
Eyes: You have a choice for the eye, between bright Chartreuse Caddis beads or standard silver beads from Veniard's Bead Chain.
Head: Black Glister Dubbing
Additional equipment: Davie also made use of his standard whip finish tool as listed below, but also utilised Clear Varnish and his own homemade brushing tool with a lollipop stick, similar to this piece of kit from Stonfo Pettine.

Davie's preferred type of whip finish tool can be found HERE!

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