Skinny Nelson and variations

During this fly tying tutorial, I decided to give detailed tying instructions for Tracy Peterson's "Skinny Nelson," plus a few variations of the pattern (including a great one for midges). This pattern was originally developed for skinny water (as a baetis or midge imitation), but has since become known for its powers in the deep, primarily due to the addition of a tungsten bead. Popular species to fish for with this pattern include trout, grayling, steelhead, and salmon. In the second part of this video, I show and explain a number of ways to vary this pattern, which adds a lot more to the pattern. Please note that I chose to tie this on a standard-shanked hook, which is more representational of the flies in my area. I do mention a 1xl hook during the tutorial, which may better represent insects in your area.

Speaking of hooks, the one I recommend for this pattern (and many other nymphs) is the W502 by Allen Fly Fishing. Both this and its counterpart (the W520BL barbless model) are excellent hooks that help to get the fly down quickly. Check out this model and others @: http://www.allenflyfishing.com/w502-wet-fly-nymph/

Thanks for viewing this fly tying tutorial; feel free to leave comments/questions on this YouTube page, or you can email me at: tcammisa@gmail.com