Now is the time to tie! With all the winter cold and snow, now is the best time to load your fly boxes. What flies need to be included in your tying sessions? Here are a few suggestions of what you need to tie.

Griffiths Gnat

This small fly is easy to tie, effective, and matches several hatches. Using a Grizzly hackle on a peacock hurl body is the simplest way to build this hot fly. Tie them in sizes 18-22 and hang on. Using two different sizes in tandem works best. Put the bigger fly on top so you can see it. The smaller fly will get the most action, but you will see the strikes.

Caddis

You never have too many caddis, they can be dry, emergers, nymphs, and cripples. During a hatch, you may need every stage of the hatch. Caddis also comes in several colors. The PMX caddis works best. This simple pattern uses peacock hurl, an elk hair wing and a shuck tail. I dedicate one box of flies just to Caddis.

Adams

This dry fly can be tied using hair wings or in a parachute version. Gray or brown versions work best. Tie these in sizes 8-20. This pattern will match many hatches with proper presentation. You can also tie this pattern using PMD or BWO colors using a Compara Dun tie. The simple elk hair wing eliminates the need for a hackle wing.

Tying several dozen of these patterns will keep you off the vice during fishing season. If you forget how to tie these flies, YouTube them. Experts can show you the ropes and tricks quickly. Keep a separate storage box for surplus flies. Usually fly fishermen carry a dry fly box and a nymph box. In spring and fall they will also have a streamer box. Hoppers, Terrestrials will also be critical in summer.

Take an inventory of your fly arsenal and restock.

Tie One On NOW!!!

Montana Grant

For more Montana Grant, cast to him at www.montanagrantfishing.com or on Facebook.