How to Tie a Whitlock Damsel Nymph
- 1). Place a Mustad 9672 #8 hook in a fly tying vise so the shank of the hook is sticking out. The shank is the straight portion that runs from the bend of the hook to the eyelet.
- 2). Wrap the shank of the hook with olive 6/0 thread beginning 1/5 down the length of the shank from the eyelet. Approximately two layers of wrapping should be sufficient.
- 3). Thread olive 6/0 thread through the holes in two 2.5mm black pearl beads and tie them to the hook just behind the eyelet. These beads will represent the nymph's eyes. Place a drop of CA glue between the eyes and allow it to dry for approximately 1 minute.
- 4). Tie one olive hen feather at the bend of the string using olive 6/0 thread. Cut the feather to the length of the hook's shank with a scissors. This will represent the nymph's tail.
- 5). Wrap a layer of olive dubbing along the shank of the hook with olive 6/0 thread. This will simulate the body of the nymph.
- 6). Wrap two lengths of partridge feather to the shank of the hook just behind the eyes with olive 6/0 thread. Spread the feathers outward from the body to mimic wings. Trim the feathers with scissors so they end at the bend of the hook.
- 7). Cut a length of olive Swiss straw approximately 1/4 inch wide and 1 1/2 inches long with a scissors. Tie one end of the straw to the shank just behind the eyelet with olive 6/0 thread.
- 8). Lay the olive Swiss straw along the shank and tie it down with olive 6/0 thread approximately 1/8 inch behind the eyes. Cut the straw at the loose end halfway down the shank. This will help mimic the thorax and budding wings of the nymph.
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