Tying the Shipmans Claret Hopper Dry Fly by Davie McPhail

The Shipmans Hopper is a great Stillwater fly, inspired by the classic Shipmans Buzzer, which was invented by Dave Shipman for both Brown Trout and for Rainbow Trout. These flies are very effective during the season, especially when they are fished on a floating line, on a long leader. If you ever find yourself in flat, calm conditions where the Trout are rising, seeking out emergers, tie a Shipman's Hopper on and you'll probably be landing one very soon.

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. Time to tie the Shipmans Claret Hopper Dry Fly, with the guidance of Davie McPhail.




Materials Used:
Hook: Fulling Mill All-Purpose Medium size 12 Thread: Uni-8/0 Black or Claret Tail and Head: Veniards Plastazote White Foam cut to size Rib: Pearl Mylar Body: Claret Seals Fur or Sub Lets: Pre-knotted Pheasant Tail Fibres Hackle: Brown Cock

Additional materials: Additionally, Davie made use of Varnish, which he applied to the thread after completing the fly.

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