Tying a CDC Heather Fly with Davie McPhail

During the Spring, Hawthorn flies can be seen flitting across fields and hedgerows. Instantly recognisable by their long trailing hindlegs, these flies hatch in their millions and sometimes cause concern when they arrive in people's gardens. due to their large bodies and hindlegs, any gentle breeze can push them off course mid-flight and end up exposed on the surface of Rivers, Streams, Reservoirs and Ponds. The CDC Heather that Davie McPhail ties below is similar to that of a Hawthorn Fly, expect the hind legs are slightly different in that they have an orange flash near the centre and fish know the difference! Get yourself stocked up on these little flies for next season, as they are perfect for Rivers and Streams where wild Trout dwell, however on a Stillwater venue like a reservoir, it's recommended that you cast and slowly retrieve the fly.

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 a CDC Heather Fly, with the guidance of Davie McPhail.




Materials Used:
Hook: Fulling Mill All-Purpose Medium size 10 or 12 Thread: Uni-8/0 Black Rib: Uni-Mylar No.14 Pearl Body: Black and Hot Orange Seals Fur or Sub Legs: 6 Dyed Black Pre-Knotted Pheasant Tail Fibres Wing: Dyed Black CDC and Roe Deer Hair

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!